To avoid these ads, REGISTER NOW!

Honest air compressor needs

2StepsAhead

Well-known member
Joined
Jun 15, 2014
Messages
47
I know this comes up a lot but...

I have a small garage where I work on only my cars, mainly parts swapping and maintenance.

My friends are all pushing for me to get some 60 gallon air compressor with the do it once and do it right mentality but realistically for filling tires and the occasional valve train work how much do I really need?

I have an 1100 ft lb Milwaukee impact...

I was debating between a hot ********* one or maybe a stand up 20 gallon unit and of course my friends were like no you need a 30 minimum.

I’m trying to think of any other things I’d use air for and I come up with nothing, no sanding, grinding, paint.

Maybe to blow something out once in awhile, valvetrain work once in a blue moon and tire filling realistically.
 
To avoid these ads, REGISTER NOW!

el_chupo_

Well-known member
Joined
Feb 7, 2012
Messages
171
Location
DFW, TX
Buy for your needs, not theirs. For the things you describe, I have been more than happy with a $150 California Air compressor (I have that and one of the 2hp versions). It is great for filling up car tires, and small stuff. It does run a lot when filling up my Jeep's oversized tires, but that is to be expected with the volume they hold.

Plus, IF you ever decide you need a bigger compressor, you are not out much money/you have a small one for basic stuff.

Or, get the one FTG linked. It is also a good starting point for the home DIY'er.
 

strutaeng

Well-known member
Joined
Dec 12, 2011
Messages
2,242
Location
Dallas, TX
It's one of those things that for "just for a bit more, you get this.."

Any 120V consumer compressor is going to max out at around 5.5 CFM. The 20-30 gallon compressors are bare minimum for any continuous "light" automotive pneumatic tools (mini die grinder, small drill, etc.) However, they are around almost $500.

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-3...table-Electric-Air-Compressor-C302H/206695048

For another $100 or so you can get a 60 gallon, 11 CFM unit.

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-60-Gal-Stationary-Electric-Air-Compressor-C602H/205389936

This is more suited for DIY auto work.

If you are patient and depending on location, you can get a nice used unit for less money. I just bought a Emglo (now Jenny) 2KA-18P with a true 2 HP motor. It's bit old, but seems to work just fine. It's somewhere around 8CFM. I've got a 7.5HP compressor and a light double hot dog for nails. This one fills the gap nicely. It is portable, wheeled and has decent CFM for most anything except blasting or continuous spray painting.
 

RKA

Well-known member
Joined
Jun 9, 2010
Messages
1,744
Location
NJ
Get something small and quiet that you can carry around the house as needed. That will fill tires, run trim nailers and other light duty work. Worse case, you later find a need for a big boy compressor, the little one still has a purpose. With the way cordless tools have developed, I haven't used my compressor for car maintenance in a while. Wheels are removed with a cordless and other jobs I just use hand tools or a cordless impact driver. Once a year I'll find some use for the larger compressor, but if I had to live without it, I could. But like you, I don't use it for sanding, grinding, blasting or painting. This year I'll probably use it to clean my intake manifold and intake valves and bleed my brakes. Without a compressor, I would pay a shop to do the former and manually bleed the brakes. Not a big deal really. The smaller compressor is the one I wouldn't want to live without.
 

eschoendorff

Well-known member
Joined
Feb 6, 2005
Messages
8,991
Location
Michigan
A 60 gallon isn't going to do it, I'm afraid.

You gonna need at least this one, at a bare minimum:

https://eatoncompressor.com/product/10-15hp-air-compressor-single-phase-2-stage-120-gallon-vertical/

That’s only single phase. You disappoint me. He needs to have three phase power to his garage to run any decent compressor lololol!

Seriously, I have a 25 or 30 gallon oiled craftsman professional compressor. It is the largest cfm capacity I could reasonably get being that I only have 110 volt service in my garage. It has served me well with impacts and such. I am satisfied with it for my needs, and I’ll admit I use my compressor more than you intend to use yours.
 

FTG-05

Well-known member
Joined
Oct 11, 2012
Messages
1,517
Location
TN
That’s only single phase. You disappoint me. He needs to have three phase power to his garage to run any decent compressor lololol!

Seriously, I have a 25 or 30 gallon oiled craftsman professional compressor. It is the largest cfm capacity I could reasonably get being that I only have 110 volt service in my garage. It has served me well with impacts and such. I am satisfied with it for my needs, and I’ll admit I use my compressor more than you intend to use yours.

I was more worried that the 3 phase would make it too obvious an April Fool's recommendation. In other words, I was going for some subtlety.

:lol_hitti
 

sweet victory

Well-known member
Joined
Jun 9, 2016
Messages
1,262
Location
USA
Once you get a compressor, you'll probably find yourself using a blow gun the most to help clean things as you work on them. There's lots of pneumatic tools that do more than just turn nuts and bolts. Air hammers, vacuum brake bleeders, die grinders, etc. are all tools that help accomplish jobs.

My favorite air tool that I own is my vacuum coolant filler tool. I use a little HF 110 compressor to run it. (I hate the this compressor with a passion.)
 

mike93lx

ALLIANCE MEMBER
Joined
Dec 9, 2013
Messages
37,355
Location
Richmond, VA
Buy for your needs, not theirs. For the things you describe, I have been more than happy with a $150 California Air compressor (I have that and one of the 2hp versions). It is great for filling up car tires, and small stuff. It does run a lot when filling up my Jeep's oversized tires, but that is to be expected with the volume they hold.

Plus, IF you ever decide you need a bigger compressor, you are not out much money/you have a small one for basic stuff.

Or, get the one FTG linked. It is also a good starting point for the home DIY'er.

X2. Noise and weight is way more important to me than capacity, so i bought a CAT with aluminum tanks. I can carry it to anywhere needed to get close to a project and it is extremely quiet.

I had a 60 gal for a while and always hated the idea of that much stored energy in my house.
 

Stooge

Well-known member
Joined
Mar 24, 2013
Messages
3,533
Location
South Shore, MA
i had one of these as an interim air compressor for atleast a year when my previous one died and I was a little light in the piggy bank to buy a new bigger one for my needs. did everything I needed it to, including running impact guns, sanders, die grinders, air saws and spray guns, although the grinder would need some time to catch up with a lot of continuous use. when I got a new devilbiss 60gallon as I need to run body tools fairly continuously, I gave the Husky to a friend who didn't have a compressor. it's not the quietist, but its good value, semi portable if you have a small suv/ cuv, and although I used it for much more than it sounds like you expect to need, its nice to have the reserve air if you need it for not a lot of money.
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-3...table-Electric-Air-Compressor-C303H/206532808
 
Last edited:

Arkansas COB

Well-known member
Joined
Sep 15, 2015
Messages
2,907
Location
Arkansas
I bought a 26 gal cambell hausfeld oil less about 25 yrs ago from wally world. Seems I spent around 150.00 for it back then.I have used it for painting, nailing, all kinds of automotive work from rebuilding motors to airing up tires. Have used air ratchets and grinders and cut off tools and to blow this and that. Yes when using the air grinder and cutoff tool I have to wait for it to resupply itself but Im not in that big of a hurry.
Only recently has it started getting a bit slow on charging up. Probably a good rebuild would cure that.

For what the OP describes as his needs I dont see any reason why a 21 to 26 gallon wouldnt do him just fine unless money is not a problem then by all means go big.

COB
 

woody6904

Well-known member
Joined
Jan 26, 2016
Messages
522
Location
NW Ohio
Have an old 20 gal 110 volt Campbell Hausfeld at home, been more than enough for my needs. The old barn doesn't have the best wiring. Granted I ain't running a sand blaster or painting, but for airing stuff up, blowing stuff off, impacts, die grinders, etc. it has been fine. Even ran a 3/4 impact with it to take off semi lugs. Rigged up a portable air tank downstream for a little extra capacity.

Will replace with one of these if it ever takes a ****...

https://www.aircompressorsdirect.com/BelAire-5026VP-Air-Compressor/p4743.html
 

MoonRise

Well-known member
Joined
Nov 5, 2010
Messages
4,027
Location
NJ
Do you have 240V power 'available' in the garage area? Or do you only have 120V?

(technically, you 99.9997% probably have 240V power, but you may or may not have an outlet for that 240V power in the garage. :D )

If you are limited to only 120V power, well then that is your limit. Which means about 5 cfm @ 90 psi is all you will get from a 120V powered compressor.

Notice that I haven't mentioned "gallons" at all.

More gallons of stored air just mean that you can use the air tool for a little longer before the compressor kicks on and starts to (try to) refill the tank. More air (higher pressure and/or more gallons) in the tank means that you can run the particular air tool for a longer period before you 'run out' of air.

Just how much longer will more tank capacity get you? It depends on just how much air the tool needs/uses and how you use that tool.

Air impact? Usually that is a tool used for a few seconds at a time, and then you are doing something else and the compressor can refill the tank while you are doing that (but not always).

Filling a tire with air? Usually not a 'time critical' task, so waiting for the compressor to refill is usually not that big of a deal (but it is or can get mighty annoying!).

Air blow gun to blow off dust or water or whatever? You might drain a 20-30 gallon air tank in a minute and then the compressor kicks on to try and refill the tank.

More tank capacity and more motor power running the compressor lets you do 'more'.

Your call as to how much you want/need.

But if you can do so, a 60-80 gallon 3-5 hp 240V compressor can let you run almost any air tool you might want/need in a home use situation.

With a 120V compressor, you WILL be limited to what and how long you can run some air tools. Which can either be annoying or it can make the tool basically 'unusable' for you.

example time:

Spray guns typically need a pretty good amount of air.

Media blasting (aka 'sand blasting') can use a lot to a LOT of air. Blast for 30 seconds and then having to wait for 3 minutes for the tank to refill and then blast for 30 seconds and then having to wait again, to me makes this use scenario in the Nope-it-don't-work category.

Air die grinder? Again, with the small 120V units, you will be able to use the tool for maybe a minute or so and then have to wait for the tank to refill.

Look at the tool(s) you have or might want to use. See what their listed CFM air usage is (something like "4 CFM @ 90 psi" is a pretty common 'small' air tool listing, like for a 1/4" air die grinder). Then, for 'most' tools, you have to multiply that number by 4 (because of the 'duty cycle' way that the air tools are listed under, many are calculated on a use-cycle basis of 15 seconds on out of a minute).

So that die grinder that was listed as needing 4 CFM @ 90 psi actually needs more than 16 CFM @ 90 psi to run continuously (and the way I use an air die grinder, I use it waaaay more than in just tiny 15 seconds bursts).

The hot dog or pancake style air compressors are more suited to running a small air nailer than running 'mechanics' air tools IMHO. They can fill tires just fine, but depending on the tire you may have to 'wait' for the compressor. A quick burst on an air impact, sure. An air die grinder, nope. And air hammer, probably not. A spray gun, probably not unless it is an airbrush sized one . :D

YMMV.
 

rustedgoat

Well-known member
Joined
Jul 6, 2008
Messages
96
Location
central NJ
The only times I need my big compressor running are for blasting and painting. The advice given on having a small portable compressors is good. You'll always have a need for one. Tell your friends to go buy their own compressor.
 

Professional Tool User

Well-known member
Joined
Apr 9, 2018
Messages
1,835
Location
BC
As long as you are not doing anything that requires a lot of CFM like painting, from a home use standpoint, anything that can take off 5 lug nuts without waiting for air pressure to rebuild is good enough. For what it is, my HF 21 gal compressor is fine for home use.
 

mike93lx

ALLIANCE MEMBER
Joined
Dec 9, 2013
Messages
37,355
Location
Richmond, VA
As long as you are not doing anything that requires a lot of CFM like painting, from a home use standpoint, anything that can take off 5 lug nuts without waiting for air pressure to rebuild is good enough. For what it is, my HF 21 gal compressor is fine for home use.

Why would removing lug nuts matter to OP? He said he has a cordless impact gun
 

Ilikeike

ALLIANCE MEMBER
Joined
Jan 8, 2015
Messages
2,452
Location
Northern Ca.
I bought that 30 gallon Husky from Home Depot for an out building, we just use it to blow out A/C filters on the VFDs and electric panels...and other small tasks. I like it, it's fairly quiet too.
It would be a decent basic garage compressor if your're not running a DA or some other air hog.
 

sberry

Banned
Joined
Jun 18, 2005
Messages
35,747
Location
Brethren, Michigan
I am going to back up a little. Air demand isn't rated on duty cycle but industrial averaging. It's kind of a holdover before home use was popular and not actual demand. What s for is sizing comps for factory and usually based on 100 units. Due to duty,, only 25 or 30% of them are running at one time. It's really demand factor than true duty cycle.
 

JohnM45

Well-known member
Joined
Feb 3, 2016
Messages
106
Location
South Central, PA
I have a 30 gallon, single-stage, oil-free Craftsman that is about 20 years old. Its a good unit and basically does tire duty and blow-gun duty. I have a chincy 3/8 air ratchet as well as 3/8 impact gun. Both of those particular air tools are worthless. However, over the years it's run a couple nail guns for projects quite well.

One thing I'll add: I change my own motorcycle tires and having a larger volume compressor to pop the bead is VERY helpful. Not sure a smaller 5 or 10 gallon unit would do it as well...

What i hate: the NOISE!!!! single stage oil-free are LOUD.
 
To avoid these ads, REGISTER NOW!
OP
2

2StepsAhead

Well-known member
Joined
Jun 15, 2014
Messages
47
The only concern I have was for valve train work, debating between https://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-4...wered-Silent-Air-Compressor-3320445/305026725 and this https://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-3...table-Electric-Air-Compressor-C303H/206532808

I know the smaller one would do the job but just run constantly so my only issue would be if s breaker tripped mid install. As far as impacts, ratchets, grinders, sanders etc I have all electric stuff right now and have no plans on paint prep stuff.

I debated the quieter smaller model and letting it run right next to me the very few times I’m going to perform a valve spring swap or spending a little more for the bigger 30 gallon and then maybe putting it outside the garage due to people saying it’s not really quiet at all.
 

JohnM45

Well-known member
Joined
Feb 3, 2016
Messages
106
Location
South Central, PA
The first link doesn't bring anything up for me. The second one for the 30 gallon Husky w/ 175psi looks decent for $350. To put it in perspective, I bought my Craftsman 150psi, 30 gallon back in 2001 for $300. That's 18 years ago...for basically the same price...I did get the ratchet and impact gun in the package, but they're not worth much.

I guess my point is, that's not a bad price for a quite capable unit. Its going to have all Chinese components...then again, they ALL do. If the regulator switch looks fairly easy to swap out with industry standard stuff, I'd say go for it.

I'd love to know how quiet it is....they say 78dbA...I think that'd be a first! :)
 

JohnM45

Well-known member
Joined
Feb 3, 2016
Messages
106
Location
South Central, PA
Clarifying: I'm Not suggesting you should swap the regulator and switch out right away; just that a few years down the road if/when it fails, it would be nice to be able to buy something off the shelf of a good hardware store if dealing with Husky parts proves difficult.
 

Stooge

Well-known member
Joined
Mar 24, 2013
Messages
3,533
Location
South Shore, MA
The only concern I have was for valve train work, debating between https://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-4...wered-Silent-Air-Compressor-3320445/305026725 and this https://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-3...table-Electric-Air-Compressor-C303H/206532808

I know the smaller one would do the job but just run constantly so my only issue would be if s breaker tripped mid install. As far as impacts, ratchets, grinders, sanders etc I have all electric stuff right now and have no plans on paint prep stuff.

I debated the quieter smaller model and letting it run right next to me the very few times I’m going to perform a valve spring swap or spending a little more for the bigger 30 gallon and then maybe putting it outside the garage due to people saying it’s not really quiet at all.

i had that second 30gallon 175psi oilless husky that I mentioned in my previous reply on the 1st page of this thread. I liked it, it was a good compressor for the money and I used it for a lot more than it sounds like you are planning on using it for. I've recommended it on these boards several times, and as I said before, I would buy it again if the situation came up. I will say, it is not what I would call especially quiet, and although I never metered it, is probably close to every other air compressor regarding how loud it is.
 
OP
2

2StepsAhead

Well-known member
Joined
Jun 15, 2014
Messages
47
The first link doesn't bring anything up for me. The second one for the 30 gallon Husky w/ 175psi looks decent for $350. To put it in perspective, I bought my Craftsman 150psi, 30 gallon back in 2001 for $300. That's 18 years ago...for basically the same price...I did get the ratchet and impact gun in the package, but they're not worth much.

I guess my point is, that's not a bad price for a quite capable unit. Its going to have all Chinese components...then again, they ALL do. If the regulator switch looks fairly easy to swap out with industry standard stuff, I'd say go for it.

I'd love to know how quiet it is....they say 78dbA...I think that'd be a first! :)

This is the description of the first one:

Do the work without the noise with the Husky 4.5 Gal. Portable Electric Air Compressor. This quiet compressor operates at less than 65 dB, but delivers 3.0 SCFM at 90 PSI. Ideal for household inflation jobs such as bike tires, car tires, air mattresses, sports balls and pool toys. It's also perfect for tools such as brad and finish nailers. A height adjustable handle and rubber wheels give this compressor easy mobility. Two quick couplers allow 2 tools to work simultaneously.
Airflow is 3.0 SCFM at 90 psi and 4.0 SCFM at 40 psi
Motor is 1.3 HP 4-pole induction motor lasting 2X longer life
2 quick couplers allow 2 tools working simultaneously
Quiet operation with noise less than 65dB
Oil-free pump require less maintenance

Obviously much smaller and less scfm, but being much quieter I could let it run next to me the few times a year I would need it.
 

Citation

Well-known member
Joined
Jan 20, 2016
Messages
3,209
Location
Indy
Do you have 240V power 'available' in the garage area? Or do you only have 120V?

(technically, you 99.9997% probably have 240V power, but you may or may not have an outlet for that 240V power in the garage. :D )

If you are limited to only 120V power, well then that is your limit. Which means about 5 cfm @ 90 psi is all you will get from a 120V powered compressor.

Notice that I haven't mentioned "gallons" at all.

More gallons of stored air just mean that you can use the air tool for a little longer before the compressor kicks on and starts to (try to) refill the tank. More air (higher pressure and/or more gallons) in the tank means that you can run the particular air tool for a longer period before you 'run out' of air.

Just how much longer will more tank capacity get you? It depends on just how much air the tool needs/uses and how you use that tool.

Air impact? Usually that is a tool used for a few seconds at a time, and then you are doing something else and the compressor can refill the tank while you are doing that (but not always).

Filling a tire with air? Usually not a 'time critical' task, so waiting for the compressor to refill is usually not that big of a deal (but it is or can get mighty annoying!).

Air blow gun to blow off dust or water or whatever? You might drain a 20-30 gallon air tank in a minute and then the compressor kicks on to try and refill the tank.

More tank capacity and more motor power running the compressor lets you do 'more'.

Your call as to how much you want/need.

But if you can do so, a 60-80 gallon 3-5 hp 240V compressor can let you run almost any air tool you might want/need in a home use situation.

With a 120V compressor, you WILL be limited to what and how long you can run some air tools. Which can either be annoying or it can make the tool basically 'unusable' for you.

example time:

Spray guns typically need a pretty good amount of air.

Media blasting (aka 'sand blasting') can use a lot to a LOT of air. Blast for 30 seconds and then having to wait for 3 minutes for the tank to refill and then blast for 30 seconds and then having to wait again, to me makes this use scenario in the Nope-it-don't-work category.

Air die grinder? Again, with the small 120V units, you will be able to use the tool for maybe a minute or so and then have to wait for the tank to refill.

Look at the tool(s) you have or might want to use. See what their listed CFM air usage is (something like "4 CFM @ 90 psi" is a pretty common 'small' air tool listing, like for a 1/4" air die grinder). Then, for 'most' tools, you have to multiply that number by 4 (because of the 'duty cycle' way that the air tools are listed under, many are calculated on a use-cycle basis of 15 seconds on out of a minute).

So that die grinder that was listed as needing 4 CFM @ 90 psi actually needs more than 16 CFM @ 90 psi to run continuously (and the way I use an air die grinder, I use it waaaay more than in just tiny 15 seconds bursts).

The hot dog or pancake style air compressors are more suited to running a small air nailer than running 'mechanics' air tools IMHO. They can fill tires just fine, but depending on the tire you may have to 'wait' for the compressor. A quick burst on an air impact, sure. An air die grinder, nope. And air hammer, probably not. A spray gun, probably not unless it is an airbrush sized one . :D

YMMV.

Thanks, you saved me a bunch of typing.

I would suggest that most home user can be handled by a compressor under $200. I currently open three smaller compressors; a CAT 5510A, a Emglo 4gal, 4cfm roofing compressor and a CH 20gal 5.7 cfm belt drive compressor. The CAT is nice for airing tires and can handle impact use but will cycle the pump quickly. I like that it's quiet and light (35lb). The extra flow of the Emglo is very noticeable and helps when using a blow gun. A while back I upgraded from that compressor to the 20gal. The biggest issue I had at the time was 4 gallons just was not enough when using the air gun a lot. The 20 gal isn't too loud thanks to a good air intake. It's noticably louder than the CAT but not too the point that I don't like it in the garage with me. It has no issues with my air gun or impact but the cut off wheel (a continuous vs momentary load) runs through the 20 gallons in about 10 seconds (that is it turns back on). So the cut off wheel is only marginally useful with my 120V compressor.

Something to consider is the wiring in your garage. Prior to doing some work on the wiring in my garage the 20 gallon simply drew more current than I felt comfortable with. The other compressors drew sometime like 8-10A running. The CAT is low enough that I just want worried.

One final suggestion, check slick deals.net for compressors. Walmart was recently clearing out a 6gal pancake similar to the common Porter Cable. For $20 you could try it then decide if it was enough or you needed more.
 

Ign

Well-known member
Joined
Jul 7, 2006
Messages
12,769
Location
Butte Peak ND
I'd personally get something that can sustain a plasma. I think my old ESAB needs 7cfm

Now if you're positive you'll never want a plasma, ok..... (good luck)
 

Citation

Well-known member
Joined
Jan 20, 2016
Messages
3,209
Location
Indy
Just did a deal search:

If you have it near you (and I was really tempted) here is the Kobalt 30gal 175 psi for $125. There was one in my area but I just didn't need it... and unlike my 20 gallon, it's not pressure compatible with my Emglo so I can pair them for more flow.
https://slickdeals.net/f/12958567-k...t-lowes-124-75-ymmv-124-75?v=1&src=SiteSearch

Herev is an 8 gallon 1hp CAT for under $150. Quiet but slow pump.
https://slickdeals.net/f/12981913-c...8-gal-silver-143-49-amazon?v=1&src=SiteSearch

And if your local Walmart has it, $20 pancake that should be enough to run an impact to do your wheels
https://slickdeals.net/f/12955576-briggs-stratton-6-gallon-air-compressor-ymmv-20?v=1&src=SiteSearch
 

seagullplayer

Well-known member
Joined
Sep 4, 2013
Messages
117
Location
Southern Indiana
I have one of these:

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

I have had good luck with it, going on about six years I guess.
I have the hose real mounted to the wall right beside it and plumbed in permanent.
I would love a bigger tank, but 2HP suits what I do.
They are crazy cheap with a coupon, you could use it and watch for a better deal on a larger used one if you wanted.
My biggest limit was the limited current I have to the garage.

I also have thelarge air pig, because there is always a flat time someplace else.
 

cadunkle

Well-known member
Joined
Feb 13, 2011
Messages
472
Location
NJ
For light home automotive work I wouldn't go any less than 3 HP. The ubiquitous 3 HP single stage ~10 CFM 60 gal units are great for a weekend tinkerer. They are cheap and adequate for most work if you don't mind it running more often than not when using sanders, die grinders, and similar tools. Beware in the humid northeast it will make more water than air in the summer if run hard, this problem is only worse with smaller compressors. You may end up spending a bunch of time and money figuring how to get dry air out of the thing.

More tank volume is nice, but nothing wrong with a smaller tank and one of these motor/pump setups if that fits your space better.
 

Citation

Well-known member
Joined
Jan 20, 2016
Messages
3,209
Location
Indy
While I can certainly see the want for a bigger compressor but what "light" automotive work needs a 3hp compressor? With just a 4 gallon compressor I changed a clutch, replaced a CV joint, replaced shocks, pulled heads, etc. Unless you are using power ratchets or doing body work why do you need that much air? I see it for more advanced work or if you choose to use air tools vs manual but not basic work.
 
OP
2

2StepsAhead

Well-known member
Joined
Jun 15, 2014
Messages
47
While I can certainly see the want for a bigger compressor but what "light" automotive work needs a 3hp compressor? With just a 4 gallon compressor I changed a clutch, replaced a CV joint, replaced shocks, pulled heads, etc. Unless you are using power ratchets or doing body work why do you need that much air? I see it for more advanced work or if you choose to use air tools vs manual but not basic work.

My buddy had a pancake for a long time, my only concern right now is the the valve train work because I have two cars I want to swap springs on soon and I’m not pulling the motor or heads, rather not do the tdc method for each cylinder or the rope trick. Air just seems easier.

So realistically the only issue I can see is if constantly running the small 4 gallon compressor for awhile would trip a breaker and cause me to lose pressure. Otherwise I can’t think of a time I’ll personally need more capacity.
 

Citation

Well-known member
Joined
Jan 20, 2016
Messages
3,209
Location
Indy
How much flow do you need to pressurize the cylinder? I did a leak down test with my 4 gallon, 4 cfm compressor with no issues.
 

BD1

Well-known member
Joined
Mar 18, 2007
Messages
4,602
Location
north side
The two you have posted are extremely LOUD !!!!! You won't want it in the same room with you.
Spend more and get a 60 gallon upright and you'll have it forever.
 

mike93lx

ALLIANCE MEMBER
Joined
Dec 9, 2013
Messages
37,355
Location
Richmond, VA
My buddy had a pancake for a long time, my only concern right now is the the valve train work because I have two cars I want to swap springs on soon and I’m not pulling the motor or heads, rather not do the tdc method for each cylinder or the rope trick. Air just seems easier.

So realistically the only issue I can see is if constantly running the small 4 gallon compressor for awhile would trip a breaker and cause me to lose pressure. Otherwise I can’t think of a time I’ll personally need more capacity.

Why would running a small compressor trip the breaker? If it isn't overloading the circuit, it won't be a problem. If the circuit is so small that it trips on a small compressor, why do you think a bigger one wouldbe better?
 

Tallpilot

Well-known member
Joined
Jan 13, 2017
Messages
2,384
Location
Orlando
Overkill is what we do best on GJ. The compressor is very much like the tool cabinet. If you upgrade from a 26" to a 42" you will eventually fill it up too then 'need' a 56" or 68".

So the buy once, cry once crowd aren't wrong. Buy the biggest you can afford and have room to store. Without much effort you can find many additional uses for it. But you're absolutely right even hungry air tools can be run for long enough to do a job by a fairly small setup. When I do brakes and use a cookie wheel to clean up a hub my 29 gallon only cycles once or twice. It was worth the extra money to me for belt drive and oil lube because of noise.

Arguing that a DIY guy needs a 60 gallon tank to use a blow gun while changing out spark plugs is pretty comical.
 
Last edited:

Farmall450

Well-known member
Joined
Dec 23, 2011
Messages
13,354
Location
Marengo, Illinois
The only times I need my big compressor running are for blasting and painting. The advice given on having a small portable compressors is good. You'll always have a need for one. Tell your friends to go buy their own compressor.

Yeah, then go use theirs.

However, I'd go 21gal HF best or up to 60. Not worth fiddling in between.
 
OP
2

2StepsAhead

Well-known member
Joined
Jun 15, 2014
Messages
47
Why would running a small compressor trip the breaker? If it isn't overloading the circuit, it won't be a problem. If the circuit is so small that it trips on a small compressor, why do you think a bigger one wouldbe better?

Just thinking worse case scenario, that seems to be the only way a small compressor would give me an issue in this situation where as a 30 gallon would have plenty of reserve.
 
OP
2

2StepsAhead

Well-known member
Joined
Jun 15, 2014
Messages
47
Overkill is what we do best on GJ. The compressor is very much like the tool cabinet. If you upgrade from a 26" to a 42" you will eventually fill it up too then 'need' a 56" or 68".

So the buy once, cry once crowd aren't wrong. Buy the biggest you can afford and have room to store. Without much effort you can find many additional uses for it. But you're absolutely right even hungry air tools can be run for long enough to do a job by a fairly small setup. When I do brakes and use a cookie wheel to clean up a hub my 29 gallon only cycles once or twice. It was worth the extra money to me for belt drive and oil lube because of noise.

Arguing that a DIY guy needs a 60 gallon tank to use a blow gun while changing out spark plugs is pretty comical.

This site is the reason I have 4 tool boxes filled with all doubles of tools lol. I built two cars with a 250 piece craftsman set and some other misc tools, now I have doubles and triples of things and too many specialty tools Ill probably never use.
 
To avoid these ads, REGISTER NOW!
Top Bottom