Compressor recommendation

[pop pop]

Dropped a valve on my old Craftsman recently and thanks to help on this board will soon have it running again. BUT, I need air. I'm thinking of getting a new unit. That Craftsman has about a million hours on it and has been bullet proof. But that's in the rear view mirror. Looking forward ?

So I'm looking around for ~3HP, 9 - 12 SCFM @ 90 psi or better. Vertical tank is good, must be ASME, but horizontal is good too. What I'm seeing in this market is not impressive. 3600 rpm motors, high speed pumps - questionable long term durability. Step up to 80 gal, 2 stage 5+ HP, and the equipment looks more durable, but much more room and $ plus hard wiring.

What opinions do you guys have?

 

[Bob C]

Stay with what works. The new Campbell Hausfeld units on 30 gallon tanks are belt driven oil lubricated. Yes the motors are 3600 rpm, but on small units, thats the norm. Been selling C/H since 1980. The new pumps are good. Some are made here in the USA and some are not, but regardless, they are the closest match to what you had. They changed the connecting rods from a 2 piece rod to a one piece rod that slips over the end of the crank and up onto the journals. I like this design. Unless you run it out of oil, it is practically bulletproof. If you do run it out of oil just sand off the journals and pop in 2 rods and you are back in business. They have revamped the valve plate/head setup for the better. I get 1 problem in 200, maybe, and it usually is a result of the customer not retorqing the head bolts after proper breakin. They switched from a poly flat belt to a v belt and this is the only thing I believe where they went backward. Much more surface area on the poly belt for grippage and bite. The units are mounted on a vertical 30 gallon tank with tank drain and a 1/4" regulator already installed and these units pump to 155 PSI. Set the pressure down if you do not need it. The other thing they changed that I do not like is the motor is no longer dual voltage. It is only 120 Volt.

 

[pop pop]

Bob, thanks for the recommendation of CH. My old one was bullet proof considering the usage. I would want to stay with 220V, however. I run one at 100% duty cycle often sandblasting or painting. What do you (CH) offer in the 220 V, and would you recommend 2 stage?

I'm wired for #12-2 (or 12-3, cant' remember) wg on it's own circuit.

 

[KinzeMech]

I've got a vertical 60 gallon Craftsman Professional that is going on 7 years old, and running strong. I think it set me back about $450 back in the day. The comparable model is around $650 today, I think.

What is your budget? What is your usage pattern?

You can get single stage units that pump up to 155, but if you're concerned with longevity, I would turn that down. Two stage units have an intercooler to burn off some of that heat between stages. Single stage units do not, and will get hotter. I would not recommend a single stage pump for any application that will see long periods of continuous operation, or even higher than 50% duty cycle.

I followed your other thread, with the dropped valve screw. The compressor I had before the one I mentioned above, was a speedaire. It had a pump that looked exactly like yours, right down to the little clips on top of the cylinder head that held on the joke of an air filter (or let rain in the pump if the shed door was left open). Dad still has it, and it still works, but my 60 gallon Craftsman replaced it, and I've never looked back, although a time or two I've wished I'd spent a little extra and gone two stage.

 

[alan camby]

Here are a few in your HP range to look at.
http://www.aircompressorsdirect.com/tools/3-hp-air-compressors.html

 

[sublimate]

IMHO, you can't go wrong with Quincy:
http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200479713_200479713

 

[Bob C]

Bob, thanks for the recommendation of CH. My old one was bullet proof considering the usage. I would want to stay with 220V, however. I run one at 100% duty cycle often sandblasting or painting. What do you (CH) offer in the 220 V, and would you recommend 2 stage?

I'm wired for #12-2 (or 12-3, cant' remember) wg on it's own circuit.

Well if you sandblast alot, you could go with a QUAD single stage on a 80 gallon C/H unit. It delivers 16 CFM @ 90PSI. 220V single phase 21 amps. if you do not need the extra pressure, then 2 stage is overkill.

about $900.

 

[camarotoolman]

IMO i WOULD JUST BUY MORE OF THE SAME and use them for parts /spares. New is usualy junkier then old.

 

[Falcon67]

I paid $399 at TSC for my 60 gallonc 3.2 HP CH compressor. Had it about 6 years, no issues. Looks like the Husky, the Craftsman and the others of the same size and shape. Has a cast iron compressor - should last me a while. I have a portable 1 1/2HP 25 gallon Porter-Cable belt drive unit with an aluminum compressor. It's around 11 years old and runs like a champ.

 

[pop pop]

Well if you sandblast alot, you could go with a QUAD single stage on a 80 gallon C/H unit. It delivers 16 CFM @ 90PSI. 220V single phase 21 amps. if you do not need the extra pressure, then 2 stage is overkill.

about $900.

Thanks Bob. That seems a bit more than needed @ 16 SCFM and the 110v unit a bit small. Is there something available around 9 -10 SCFM and 220v?

I paid $399 at TSC for my 60 gallonc 3.2 HP CH compressor. Had it about 6 years, no issues. Looks like the Husky, the Craftsman and the others of the same size and shape. Has a cast iron compressor - should last me a while. I have a portable 1 1/2HP 25 gallon Porter-Cable belt drive unit with an aluminum compressor. It's around 11 years old and runs like a champ.

I'm seeing similar that are likely CH units at Lowes and HD, 60 gal, single stage 3.? HP. From just looking, the 80 gal units have a wire safety cage on the drive that allows cooling while the 60 gal units have a plastic cover that looks like it is designed to keep heat in, plus the 3600 rpm motors. But the SCFM looks good. Do these units need a starter?

 

[pop pop]

IMO i WOULD JUST BUY MORE OF THE SAME and use them for parts /spares. New is usualy junkier then old.

I agree. Looking real hard and finding some really old ones I'd love to restore and have for a shop machine, but I need air now, not another project and haven't found similar to my down machine yet.

 

[pop pop]

Here are a few in your HP range to look at.
http://www.aircompressorsdirect.com/tools/3-hp-air-compressors.html

Thanks, that Campbell Hausfeld VT6275 looks right in my ballpark. I'll fish around and see if I can find similar to "kick the tires". Electrical looks easy, I just don't want to go with a compressor that will require a starter. Maybe that is the same as the Kobalt, Husky, and Craftsman I'm seeing? I think the Kobalt was $499 at Lowes. Probably different with that much $ diff.

 

[pop pop]

IMHO, you can't go wrong with Quincy:
http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200479713_200479713

Quincy has a good reputation. Haven't found local though. I do notice that one has a 50% duty cycle, which seems low.

 

[Bob C]

Thanks Bob. That seems a bit more than needed @ 16 SCFM and the 110v unit a bit small. Is there something available around 9 -10 SCFM and 220v?


I'm seeing similar that are likely CH units at Lowes and HD, 60 gal, single stage 3.? HP. From just looking, the 80 gal units have a wire safety cage on the drive that allows cooling while the 60 gal units have a plastic cover that looks like it is designed to keep heat in, plus the 3600 rpm motors. But the SCFM looks good. Do these units need a starter?

the 60 gallon 3.2 hp C/H units are 220V single phase 15 AMP.

They do not require a magnetic starter.

The units at lowes are not to my knowledge C/H as of yet. The HD units are in the C/H family that say Husky. you are stuck with 3600 motors unless you change it yourself. The plastic belt guard actually is fitted that way so the fins on the flywheel will vector the cooling air thru the backside and accross the pump.

 

[Bob C]

Quincy has a good reputation. Haven't found local though. I do notice that one has a 50% duty cycle, which seems low.

almost all recip compressors are rated 50/50 duty cycle especially cast units.

 

[pop pop]

Great informative help Bob. Thanks. I'm looking hard at the 3.? 60 gal units. What I got off the Kobalt unit at Lowes was model VT6362, 11.5 SCFM @ 90 psi and a sticker on the pump with #VT490000AV. Those fit the pattern for CH numbers, yes? It wasn't fully unwrapped, so I couldn't get much more info. The store tag said 3.2 HP and the tank had 3.7 hp. This unit looks a lot like all the other 60 gallon units, such as Sears.

 

[KinzeMech]

I think you usually have to go to a two stage to get a higher duty cycle than 50%

Duty cycle specification should be more prominently publicized than it is. Sometimes you can't find a rating even if you look for it.

 

[Angelfire]

I've been happy with my Ingersoll Rand SS3L3. Bit more $$ than some other units but search around as I found a brand new one for $399 a while back. Replaced a Crapsman that well, crapped out on me.

 

[MoonRise]

Sandblasting (media blasting) or painting, you really do want a 'big' unit.

One that runs the motor/pump for a while and fills up the tank and then shuts off for a while. Duty cycle. During the 'off' time, the motor, pump, and the hot compressed air that just filled up the tank all get a chance to cool off.

IMHO running a media blaster (unless some sort of pretty small unit) on ~10 cfm is not really enough air output available. I've (tried) running a small pressure-pot media blaster with 10-11 CFM @90 psi available. Ran out of air from the tanks waaay too quickly for efficient usage. Was always having to stop and wait for the tanks to refill and then blast for a little bit and then wait again. Compressor pumps were running pretty much non-stop.

Your call. But I'd suggest going for the big-boy unit.

You never really hear someone say 'Gee, I should have bought the smaller compressor' but you often hear 'Gee, I should have bought the bigger compressor'.

 

[pop pop]

MR, I have used only syphon feed blasters. My comp output is 7.4 SCFM @ 90 psi and most of the time I have not been disappointed. 10% more would be adequate. I do/have run it greater than a 50% duty cycle and it has thousands of hours. It was a tough ******. I've complete blasted many car frames and suspensions plus one 65 Mustang GT all over. Worn out lots of blasters! Comp probably runs 90% doing this continuously. I just don't want to overshoot and get into the electrical hookup complications - not afraid of them and know how, just don't want to..
My worry is that folks nowadays tinker with the ratings. My 2 HP is likely a 5 HP now, but 8 SCFM @ 90 psi is still 8 SCFM @ 90 psi.

 

[bobcat]

When I was looking for a compressor about 5 years ago , American made was hi on my list . Campbell Hausfeld met that back then ... and I`m very satisfied with the unit . Since Lowes and HD tried to sell me foreign stuff , I called CH and was going to buy direct . The lady said they could sell me a reconditioned unit with a new unit warranty for about 1/2 what a new unit cost . Only "problem" was that I had to pick it up at the truck terminal .
You might check and see if they still offer the reconditioned unit program and save some $$.

 

[KinzeMech]

If you're patching up your old one, you'll always have the option of running two in tandem.

 

[jeffk14]

A bit OT, but why is my 18 year-old CH oilless, 120 volt, 4HP 20 gallon compressor rated at 6.3 CFM @ 90PSI and all the newer offerings seem much more anemic and cost a lot more?

 

[KinzeMech]

It cost a lot more because one is an 18 year old price.

As to anemic, post an example. 6.3 CFM @ 90 is not much (although it is nearing the limit of a 120 VAC compressor

 

[Bob C]

A bit OT, but why is my 18 year-old CH oilless, 120 volt, 4HP 20 gallon compressor rated at 6.3 CFM @ 90PSI and all the newer offerings seem much more anemic and cost a lot more?

An easy answer. WAAAAAAAY back, Cambpell built a very good real strong oilless unit. The new oilless units of today are small, power by a motor that could barely run a remote control car and are made cheap.

If you have a good functioning old oilless unit, you better hope it never breaks as it will be done.

 

[Bob C]

Great informative help Bob. Thanks. I'm looking hard at the 3.? 60 gal units. What I got off the Kobalt unit at Lowes was model VT6362, 11.5 SCFM @ 90 psi and a sticker on the pump with #VT490000AV. Those fit the pattern for CH numbers, yes? It wasn't fully unwrapped, so I couldn't get much more info. The store tag said 3.2 HP and the tank had 3.7 hp. This unit looks a lot like all the other 60 gallon units, such as Sears.

I verified it today with Campbell. That IS their unit and if you are in my area and have a warranty, you will see me.

 

[jeffk14]

It cost a lot more because one is an 18 year old price.

As to anemic, post an example. 6.3 CFM @ 90 is not much (although it is nearing the limit of a 120 VAC compressor

Well, this one for example:

http://www.aircompressorsdirect.com/Campbell-Hausfeld-HU502000AV-Air-Compressor/p7721.html

The above example is rated at 3.8 @ 90. When I bought my oilless compressor, I had low expectations, because they were widely considered to be inferior. Here 18 years later, it has done everything I've ever needed it to do. Seems modern models don't deliver the performance of the older ones. Even the belt-driven ones.

And yes, I do understand the 18 year price difference. IIRC, I gave $199 for mine. And it's made in the USA.

 

[jeffk14]

An easy answer. WAAAAAAAY back, Cambpell built a very good real strong oilless unit. The new oilless units of today are small, power by a motor that could barely run a remote control car and are made cheap.

If you have a good functioning old oilless unit, you better hope it never breaks as it will be done.

Well, mine's been perfect. I'll first try to source parts if I ever need them. If they're not available, I'll look at a replacement unit. I'm just antsy because mine has been used a lot and is getting long in the tooth.

 

[PeterT]

I just bought this ingersol rand, http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200339041_200339041
It has really good reviews and says its made in the USA.

Mine is being shipped tomorrow. Its on sale and you can use one of the $50 off coupon codes.

 

[Bob C]

I just bought this ingersol rand, http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200339041_200339041
It has really good reviews and says its made in the USA.

Mine is being shipped tomorrow. Its on sale and you can use one of the $50 off coupon codes.

Maybe it is just me, but that price seems like a lot for a portable.

 

[Los59]

Just the information I've been looking for! I've been looking around quite a bit for a compressor that will fit my needs on tackling a restoration project. The one I'm leaning towards is a Kobalt Model #: TQ3126. It is an 80 Gal. 16CFM @90 155 PSI Max comp. I'm still green when it come to this type of equipment but what I have been reading is that I do need something this big to complete the task at hand.

At first I was looking at the IR SS3L3 but it does put out less CFM's and is a 60 Gal.
Not sure if anyone of you have had any luck or input on this unit, it's relatively inexpensive as well at $849.00. I also believe that it associated with CH as what the certification tag indicates.

I'm also shooting soda and abrasive media like Aluminum oxide. Going the Eastwood route at the moment with the Dual Blaster in mind. Anyone ever use?

 

[Bob C]

Just the information I've been looking for! I've been looking around quite a bit for a compressor that will fit my needs on tackling a restoration project. The one I'm leaning towards is a Kobalt Model #: TQ3126. It is an 80 Gal. 16CFM @90 155 PSI Max comp. I'm still green when it come to this type of equipment but what I have been reading is that I do need something this big to complete the task at hand.

Not sure if anyone of you have had any luck or input on this unit, it's relatively inexpensive as well at $849.00. I also believe that it associated with CH as what the certification tag indicates.

I'm also shooting soda and abrasive media like Aluminum oxide. Going the Eastwood route at the moment with the Dual Blaster in mind. Anyone ever use?

Haven' used the blaster but the spec on the compressor is good if you are a guy who wants to get right at it and stay there. If you just want to casually restore and do not mind waiting, the 60 would suffice.

 

[Los59]

That's the thing Bob, I will be jumping on this project quick on blasting as soon as all the equipment is here but after this portion of the project (the blasting) I will only need what the 60 Gal. SS3L3 specifies. Such as occasionally blasting parts and your everyday air tool. I would hate to be blasting and have to wait for compressor though.

 

[Bob C]

I would hate to be blasting and have to wait for compressor though.

Sounds like you have your decision made Use it then relax knowing it will not be working hard after the restore job. Light duty work adds to longevity.

 

[Los59]

I think you are right, I just hope this unit is worth the money. I get stuck going back and forth on things all the time by reading damn reviews. This Unit has 4 stars on average so it should be fine. Thanks Bob

 

[scott3257]

I picked up the Quincy 60 gal from Northern Tool. Wife could not believe I spent $699 on "Something that makes air." So far so good. Previous compressor was a 20 gal oil less Porter cable Jetstream. My only issue is the unit is listed as "Made in America" when the motor is from Mexico.

 

[Los59]

Yea that Kobalt Model #: TQ3126 60 Gal., motor made in Brazil. I just signed up for the Lowe's 10% coupon, Ill just wait till it arrives and off to get a Steel Cylinder that makes air..lol

 

[pop pop]

I verified it today with Campbell. That IS their unit and if you are in my area and have a warranty, you will see me.

Bob, I'd like to meet you. Where are you? But I'd rather not have a warranty reason to meet. Someone mentioned above "factory returns" for discount. Know where this would be located?

I'll make one final post to all:

Anyone find a less price on this VT6362 Kobalt Unit. It's 60 gal, ASME, vertical tank, either 3.2 or 3.7 HP, 11.5 SCFM @ 90 psi.? Price is $499.

 

[porschedude996TT]

Go with the 80 gal 175 psi two stage Craftsman unit. Look for the sales and discounts. miine works great.

 

[bw77]

I picked up the Quincy 60 gal from Northern Tool. Wife could not believe I spent $699 on "Something that makes air." So far so good. Previous compressor was a 20 gal oil less Porter cable Jetstream. My only issue is the unit is listed as "Made in America" when the motor is from Mexico.

If an item is assembled in the USA from global components, it is legal
to advertise the item as "Made in USA", but it is NOT legal to put
"Made in USA" on the item itself or on the packaging.