Compressor question...

[Kona Cruisers]

FIRST:read this statement....
I know that a used compressor off of CL is better/cheaper... ... blah blah blah..
not a answer to the question I have.

ok I am compressor shopping. After a 20% discount coupon at HF and taxes I am at 600$ for a NEW (ie tank not rust out motor not on its last leg. so on...)

* Air delivery: 13.5 CFM @ 165 PSI, 15.8 CFM @ 90 PSI, 16.4 CFM @
40 PSI
* Cast-iron cylinders and stainless steel valves
* Automatic start/stop
* ASME tank with safety valve
* No mag starter required


I Would love to buy a nice Eaton/Ir/Speedair/Devilbis/belAir... and so on but even used I have only seen a few decent compressor on Cl (there is a 20 cfm speedaire for 750 but its 3 phase...)

the most consumption I have is a Sata jet 2000RP.. and that is around 17.5 CFM @ 29 psi... and I know I am a little under that, CFM on the pump, but i could let it catch up in between coats.. (flash time...)

Anyone on hear have on of these.? I finally am getting a house with a garage of my own in July (lease w/ approval from the owners for auto work...)

And no this isn't the last compressor I plan on buying and I do know It will cost me more in the long run. but I can always sell it for 400 ish, or even have it piggyback on the air system I build in the future...


what do you guys think..

 

[Shocker]

I have been eyeballing that same compressor. Looks nice. Have you looked into the Belaire compressors?

 

[charlie_nj]

I don't have this compressor, but I'll give you my 2 cents, since I've also been looking at this compressor. My comments reflect home use, not for a professional shop.

On the positive side, the motor is made in Mexico not China, if that matters, and according to the plate draws 22 amps, making it a true 5 HP motor. The pump seems to be well built although obviously you can't see inside. The on/ off/ pressure switch is kinda cheap and flimsy looking though, and I don't think it will last very long.

Lets say you get 4 or 5 years out of it. You can replace the pump with the Eaton 18 cfm one at $240 and the motor with a 5 HP Baldor at $275. You'd still have only around $1100 in the setup, including the origiinal cost with the 20% coupon.

I'm probably gonna buy it this summer to replace my aging Craftsman. I've been the Craigslist route, lots of the industrial stuff on there is 3 phase, and the really good deals on the industrial quality single phase ones get grabbed quick. Unless you sit at the computer all day, you have to get really lucky. That being said, there are deals out there, it's just a question of 1. How soon do you need it, and 2. Do you want to invest the free time you have into finding a good one on Craigslist, or would you rather spend your free time with your family or working on your projects and 3. How lucky are you?

 

[deeno]

Good idea on a progression / upgrade plan Charlie. You can also just sell the half worn-out unit on Craigslist and upgrade in a few years.

Just as a side note, you can post "Wanted" ads on Craigslist and have potential sellers contact you. I listed ads seeking a 5HP, 2-stage with a 60 or 80 gallon tank and received several offers of everything from 3HP to 7.5HP units before landing a 5HP Belaire.

 

[Kona Cruisers]

Lets say you get 4 or 5 years out of it. You can replace the pump with the Eaton 18 cfm one at $240 and the motor with a 5 HP Baldor at $275. You'd still have only around $1100 in the setup, including the original cost with the 20% coupon.

genius...

any idea on a good pressure switch.. Grainger/MSc...?

 

[Major Ramifications]

You are preaching to the choir (sp?), Kona. It doesn't make sense to buy more than you need.
It looks like a great deal on that unit. I think it will last MUCH longer than 5 years, and I wouldn't bother replacing any part of it (pressure switch) until it breaks. My friend bought a single stage US General, and he has no complaints.

 

[rcozzo]

I've got one, got it for around 600 also. I'm pretty happy with it. It keeps up with my blast cabinet, but doesn't stop running until I stop blasting. Not very quiet. I'd buy it again vs. the cost alternatives.