help picking a compressor

[nolan7120]

I'm getting ready to buy a compressor, and was thinking about going with one of the Harbor Freight models unless someone can recommend something else in the same price range. $200 is the figure I'd like to stay under, after tax. The compressor would be used for running an impact gun (lug nuts, suspension parts, etc), occasional air hammer use, and filling tires. I prefer an oiled compressor because I've read that they have better longevity.

HF has these 3 models I've been eyeing:

https://www.harborfreight.com/8-gal-2-hp-125-psi-oil-lube-air-compressor-68740.html

https://www.harborfreight.com/10-gal-25-hp-125-psi-oil-lube-air-compressor-62441.html

https://www.harborfreight.com/21-gal-25-HP-125-PSI-Cast-Iron-Vertical-Air-Compressor-61454.html

I'd probably grab that Earthquake 1/2" impact gun that goes on sale for $80 to go with the compressor. Any help on which compressor to choose, what hose to go with (need about 25' max), and any fittings to upgrade would be much appreciated. Thanks!

 

[diyguy1]

If you go with any HF compressor make sure you get the extended warranty. I have used mine a few times. Also, I have the 21 gal AC and it did not remove lug nuts that were torqued to 90ft-lbs. I was using a newer craftsman impact. I only use my HF compressor for filling tires (only thing it's good for IMO).

 

[Kenskip1]

Nolan, I would have a look at Home Depo. They have a better selection. Also it would be beneficial to have a bit more pressure. 150 PSI would be better to have. Ask almost anyone that uses air tools. I will bet that 90% of them have the pressure at well over 125 PSI. My air tools get this as a minimum and they are happy with it.You have to allow for the length and diameter of the hose.Ken

 

[nolan7120]

If you go with any HF compressor make sure you get the extended warranty. I have used mine a few times. Also, I have the 21 gal AC and it did not remove lug nuts that were torqued to 90ft-lbs. I was using a newer craftsman impact. I only use my HF compressor for filling tires (only thing it's good for IMO).

Could this have been an impact gun issue? What size diameter was the hose?

 

[nolan7120]

Nolan, I would have a look at Home Depo. They have a better selection. Also it would be beneficial to have a bit more pressure. 150 PSI would be better to have. Ask almost anyone that uses air tools. I will bet that 90% of them have the pressure at well over 125 PSI. My air tools get this as a minimum and they are happy with it.You have to allow for the length and diameter of the hose.Ken

I've glanced at the Home Depot compressors a few times but haven't spent too much time perusing their site. Any specific one you'd recommend?

 

[Kenskip1]

Nolan, I went from a Sears 33 gallon on up to a 60 made by Husky.However the cost was more than yo have mentioned.It also requires 220 volts.For my requirements it is ideal.Tractor supply has the same model but with a different name on it. Ken

 

[JRC3]

Take a glance on CraigsList.

 

[nolan7120]

Take a glance on CraigsList.

There are so many listings on Craigslist and I don't have a good idea of what's good or not. A lot of what is listed seems expensive for a used unit as well. Any suggestions on quality brands to search for?

 

[Kenskip1]

Nolan, Honestly I do not use Craig list or eBay. 1 no warranty, 2 you don't know what you are getting. I buy from a dealer or not at all. Ken

 

[rnscustom]

Craigslist here , but not if you can't work on it yourself to fix little things . The old craftsman oil types are hard to kill , sometimes all they need are reeds or head gaskets . Bought one for $75 and did a head gasket $7 on eBay . So craftsman and speed air oil compressors . Usually 20gal tanks .

 

[rnscustom]

Don't see your location , maybe someone here has one . I have the craftsman one sitting around and would sell .

 

[MrGiggles]

I have had the 21 gallon for two years now. It still works fine, spent many summer days running a DA sander almost non-stop.

I can remove and install two wheels on a full tank before it kicks in with an Aircat 1055.

I can cut small bolts and stuff with a 3" cut off tool, but forget cutting anything larger.

I have the all black 20 dollar Diablo hose on a manual reel from HF and it has been pretty good so far.

It's JMO, but I don't think there's a better compressor out there for the same money.

 

[JRC3]

Bought my older 60G Campbell Hausfeld at one of those "I have a garage sale every weekend" type people. Had a brand new pump on it. $140, that was about 5+ years ago. Right after that I found an excellent condition 60G Porter Cable on CL for my brother for $250 or $275, again, all good for about 5 years now.


That also makes me think; Nolan, call the local pawnshops and see what they have. I see portable compressors there all the time. Bought my brand new Porter Cable pancake at one like 7 years ago. At least it looked like it had never been used. I've ran the hell out of it.

 

[JRC3]

Look at this 30G beast on my local CL. https://dayton.craigslist.org/tls/6170620025.html

 

[nolan7120]

Don't see your location , maybe someone here has one . I have the craftsman one sitting around and would sell .

Chicago suburbs

 

[rnscustom]

Maybe someone local will chime in . The old craftsmans , CH , Speedair , etc . Oil type pistons compressors are what to look for . My first craftsman I bought when I was 18 , used it almost daily for business ( spraying ) . Thought I killed it finally when I was 40 and bought a bigger IR . Stuck it outside and my kid asked if he could take it apart for fun . When I looked at the pile of parts everything looked new , not a mark in the cylinder . Only thing I could see was rusted out reeds ( wouldn't build up pressure , had I known I'd still be using it today ) . Thought I wore it out

 

[Infinia]

Nolan, I would have a look at Home Depo. They have a better selection. Also it would be beneficial to have a bit more pressure. 150 PSI would be better to have. Ask almost anyone that uses air tools. I will bet that 90% of them have the pressure at well over 125 PSI. My air tools get this as a minimum and they are happy with it.You have to allow for the length and diameter of the hose.Ken

+1
Steer clear of 125 psi of any flavor or tank size, since you want to run air impact on any reasonable hose and one or more fittings.
i'd up your budget esp if you want an oiled rig. I don't think longevity would be a problem for oil-less, again if you don't go too cheap. Adding a sander sand blaster or die grinder will change the equation.

 

[rnscustom]

Really need a two stage for sandblasting . Most of the impacts run on less than 125lbs I thought . Tank and recovery are usually the issue but mine worked fine . Your budget is tight at $200 . I read here often that the Astro tools are real air sippers so if your buying air tools watch their consumption .

 

[rnscustom]

Checked the earthquake its 6cfm at 90psi that seems reasonable

 

[rnscustom]

There are a ton of craftsmans in your area?? One for 70$ here is another not sure where it is to you but I looked up Chicago and you have tons . Don't know this brand but looks like a nice buy . https://chicago.craigslist.org/chc/hvo/6207989891.html

 

[Infinia]

Most of the impacts run on less than 125lbs I thought.

Air hoses can drop lots of pressure under high CFM impact bursts, plus the compressor tank pressure drops to 100 psi or less before it decides to cycle. Often we see these folks with 125 psi tanks shopping for around for huge 1/2" hoses and special fitting$. 150 psi gives some better margin for pressure losses. BTW Air tool CFM numbers are average not burst. Like everything else marketing numbers are overly optimistic both at the tool and compressor.

 

[rnscustom]

Yeah most of them are 125 on 100 off but at his budget you can't send him looking for 150lb psi compressors . He might have to wait a little in between but it will get him there . I sprayed for years with a conventional gun with that sears 2hp 20gal ( did I wait to let it catch up , yes ) but was what I could afford . Not little things big cabinets .

 

[rnscustom]

And none of those HF units he listed will even run that earthquake

 

[Infinia]

Re tool buying cry once and get something useful!

https://www.harborfreight.com/29-gal-2-hp-150-psi-cast-iron-vertical-air-compressor-61489.html

 

[rnscustom]

Oops 100 on 125 off

 

[rnscustom]

That's still under the cfm required for the earthquake . There are things I'll buy at HF , electrical is not one of them . Too many parts on a compressor to go wrong . Did you look at the link for the compressoron CL I posted , is that one you've heard of . Looks like a great deal . Also I never go by the prices on the ad . Most times it's a decent deal , sometimes it's a steal , and even more it is in rough shape when you get there . My t30 was on there for $800 ( a bargain ) needing a capacitor , when I got there the thing was a mess , oil was like mud , he took $400 for it . I flushed it out , was missing check ball , loader was shot , and ended up needing a motor , $400 later I had a nice $2900 compressor

 

[rnscustom]

There is actually a post on here about them , ok I guess some say

 

[Infinia]

There is actually a post on here about them , ok I guess some say

This is what i'd buy for myself if I was replacing one. https://www.harborfreight.com/29-gal-2-hp-150-psi-cast-iron-vertical-air-compressor-61489.html
I believe one could easily remove 4 tires with zero waiting. sure it'll be running full time after the 1st tire.

HF review

The latest model puts out 7.5/6.3 scfm which is unmatchable at or even near this price. Enough to constantly run my impact wrench@6 cfm.This same Nu Air/FNA pump is used on several high end compressors with up to 5 hp or more, so on this 2 hp application should last a long time if you keep oil in it. Motor is Marathon Electric and runs solid. Runs good in auto mode on a 15amp circuit. Very quiet compared to units using smaller direct drive pumps. You can still find coupons for it for a few $ off.

 

[nolan7120]

Re tool buying cry once and get something useful!

https://www.harborfreight.com/29-gal-2-hp-150-psi-cast-iron-vertical-air-compressor-61489.html

I saw this model and was debating on upping my budget to get it. The reviews look good and it appears to be able to handle the Earthquake impact gun rather well.

 

[nolan7120]

There are a ton of craftsmans in your area?? One for 70$ here is another not sure where it is to you but I looked up Chicago and you have tons . Don't know this brand but looks like a nice buy . https://chicago.craigslist.org/chc/hvo/6207989891.html

My main concern with buying used is that since I don't know squat really about compressors I'm not exactly sure what to look for. I wouldn't know what to check before buying to ensure that it's going to work well. This is my first compressor purchase and will be a major learning experience. I guess I can search online for tips when buying a used compressor. That should be a decent place to start.

ETA: That's probably a 45-50 minute cruise with good traffic. I don't mind driving for a good deal though.

 

[nolan7120]

This is what i'd buy for myself if I was replacing one. https://www.harborfreight.com/29-gal-2-hp-150-psi-cast-iron-vertical-air-compressor-61489.html
I believe one could easily remove 4 tires with zero waiting. sure it'll be running full time after the 1st tire.

HF review

The latest model puts out 7.5/6.3 scfm which is unmatchable at or even near this price. Enough to constantly run my impact wrench@6 cfm.This same Nu Air/FNA pump is used on several high end compressors with up to 5 hp or more, so on this 2 hp application should last a long time if you keep oil in it. Motor is Marathon Electric and runs solid. Runs good in auto mode on a 15amp circuit. Very quiet compared to units using smaller direct drive pumps. You can still find coupons for it for a few $ off.

I saw that same review. He must have read the cfm wrong because HF says this: Air delivery: 5.9 CFM @ 90 PSI, 7.3 CFM @ 40 PSI.

Still looks like plenty of air for the Earthquake impact gun.

 

[JRC3]

Menards: $229 Wait for an 11% rebate promo and get $25 back.

Performax® 26-Gallon Portable Electric Vertical Air Compressor

https://www.menards.com/main/tools-...45-c-12910.htm?tid=7946764049936970162&ipos=3

Airflow at 90 PSI: 5.2 CFM
Tank Capacity: 26 gallon (US)
Lubrication Type: Oil-Free
Cut-In Pressure": 125
Cut-Out Pressure: 155 PSI


Sadly it's oil-less. Nice high pressure though. It does have a 2 year warranty, the HF only 90 days. I think I'd buy this if it were me with that price range. Seems alotta bang for the buck. Pretty sure this is also sold under the Mastercraft name.

 

[larryq]

My main concern with buying used is that since I don't know squat really about compressors I'm not exactly sure what to look for. I wouldn't know what to check before buying to ensure that it's going to work well. This is my first compressor purchase and will be a major learning experience. I guess I can search online for tips when buying a used compressor. That should be a decent place to start.

ETA: That's probably a 45-50 minute cruise with good traffic. I don't mind driving for a good deal though.

At a glance that compressor looks to be in good cosmetic shape, and Sanborn is a solid name-- they're best known probably for their rebadged compressors (my Craftsman is one) but as you see they also sell under their own brand as well.

How can you tell if the compressor is good? A glance at the cosmetics can tell you a good bit-- is it beat to hell, scratch marks all over it, greasy oil leaks coming from the pump? Or, is it pretty clean all over? That Sanborn is a good, mid-range unit and can last many years, provided it was treated properly. (If it's clean on the outside there's a good chance its internals are too.)

Next thing would be to ask the seller to fire it up and fill the tank. Wait a minute or two to see if any pressure drops from leaks, meanwhile check if you see any oil seeping around the pump or elsewhere. If he won't do this he needs to have a damn good reason, otherwise walk.

When you let out the pressure open the valve at the bottom a bit and look for the drain water-- if it's clean then great, a little rust streak not too bad, and if it's nothing but filthy rust fluid or scale then thanks but no thanks.

A pressure switch is pretty easy to fix, there are two or three 'standard' ones made by a couple of companies, so I wouldn't worry about those much. A bad electrical motor, well, those can be replaced too, though it's probably $200 for a replacement on that compressor. A bad pump means maybe you need to go elsewhere.

 

[nolan7120]

Menards: $229 Wait for an 11% rebate promo and get $25 back.

Performax® 26-Gallon Portable Electric Vertical Air Compressor

https://www.menards.com/main/tools-...45-c-12910.htm?tid=7946764049936970162&ipos=3

Airflow at 90 PSI: 5.2 CFM
Tank Capacity: 26 gallon (US)
Lubrication Type: Oil-Free
Cut-In Pressure": 125
Cut-Out Pressure: 155 PSI


Sadly it's oil-less. Nice high pressure though. It does have a 2 year warranty, the HF only 90 days. I think I'd buy this if it were me with that price range. Seems alotta bang for the buck. Pretty sure this is also sold under the Mastercraft name.

Thanks for the recommendation near my desired price range, but I don't want to go oil-less.

I did get to looking at other offerings from Menards, and this one caught my eye if I was going to roll with a higher budget:

https://www.menards.com/main/tools-hardware/power-tools-accessories/air-compressors-pneumatic-tools-accessories/air-compressors/sanborn-reg-belt-drive-30-gallon-portable-electric-vertical-air-compressor/p-1444439608275-c-12910.htm?tid=4786925633831130697&ipos=4&bargainStoreId=3206

I do need a 120 volt compressor as I don't have a 240 volt outlet and don't feel like learning how to wire one. I should have put this in the original post.

ETA: Or there's this from Home Depot:

http://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-30-Gal-155-psi-Ultra-Quiet-Portable-Electric-Air-Compressor-C302H/206695048

 

[nolan7120]

At a glance that compressor looks to be in good cosmetic shape, and Sanborn is a solid name-- they're best known probably for their rebadged compressors (my Craftsman is one) but as you see they also sell under their own brand as well.

How can you tell if the compressor is good? A glance at the cosmetics can tell you a good bit-- is it beat to hell, scratch marks all over it, greasy oil leaks coming from the pump? Or, is it pretty clean all over? That Sanborn is a good, mid-range unit and can last many years, provided it was treated properly. (If it's clean on the outside there's a good chance its internals are too.)

Next thing would be to ask the seller to fire it up and fill the tank. Wait a minute or two to see if any pressure drops from leaks, meanwhile check if you see any oil seeping around the pump or elsewhere. If he won't do this he needs to have a damn good reason, otherwise walk.

When you let out the pressure open the valve at the bottom a bit and look for the drain water-- if it's clean then great, a little rust streak not too bad, and if it's nothing but filthy rust fluid or scale then thanks but no thanks.

A pressure switch is pretty easy to fix, there are two or three 'standard' ones made by a couple of companies, so I wouldn't worry about those much. A bad electrical motor, well, those can be replaced too, though it's probably $200 for a replacement on that compressor. A bad pump means maybe you need to go elsewhere.

Very good advice, thanks!

 

[nolan7120]

Have been perusing CL and have run across some air compressors that look interesting. What do you guys think of the following air compressors?

https://chicago.craigslist.org/nwi/tls/6211862647.html

https://chicago.craigslist.org/nwc/tls/6206477568.html

https://chicago.craigslist.org/sox/tls/6206902994.html

https://chicago.craigslist.org/nwc/tls/6208406322.html

I'm pretty sure those are all oil-lubricated and 120 volts. I think the Sanborns are a little on the pricey side based on the price of a similar model new from Menards ($350 - https://www.menards.com/main/tools-hardware/power-tools-accessories/air-compressors-pneumatic-tools-accessories/air-compressors/sanborn-reg-belt-drive-20-gallon-portable-electric-horizontal-air-compressor/p-1444439610633.htm which I do like btw).

What about the Campbell Hausfeld ones? They look like a better bargain and would be at the bottom end of my needs but that's ok if I get a really good deal on it.

 

[rnscustom]

those CH look small for your needs . Like posted , Check when you get there , oil level and clean , tank for water , hear it runand let it build up pressure , a well maintained compressor wil last a lifetime . I'd still buy an older maintained unit before a new , buy right and you'll get 5 times the compressor for your money . There's so many compressors near you you should be able to talk it down to a good price . Hour travel each way is nothing for a good deal

 

[rnscustom]

I have never spent more than $100 for any item at harbor freight and if I don't have a coupon or 20+% off I don't buy , as far as things that should have good fit and finish like pistons , I'll buy their alum race jack on sale for $59 but the engine hoist look at the finish on that piston how long you think those seals will last . I'm not bashing HF I love going there . But some things you have to step up on or find a used bargain if you can't afford . 99% of my big ticket items are used but I'm able to fix what I buy . My rule is no more than 50% of new if its mint .

 

[finn]

I wouldn't suggest a used compressor. Too many downside risks, especially re. Tank conditions.

Compressors that sit around with water in the tank develop pinhole leaks from the inside.

Take a drive out to Farm and Fleet in Montgomery. They have a good selection.

 

[BD1]

It looks like the ones you posted are all direct drive. They are extremely loud too. Do you have room for a upright 60 gallon ?

Here's one sounds cheap $400.00
https://racine.craigslist.org/tls/6178957056.html
I have a 60 gal sanborn air compressor that comes with a dryer for painters and hoses (except blue one in pic) . Has manual and in perfect condition. Will take 2 guys to load. Pick up only.
First 500 or best offer takes it.
Thanks