IR air compressor

[bsaint]

I have 20 years experience in the compressor field. These units are ok for home shop or light commercial or very very light industrial. The valves won't hold up. Thats the weak point on any inexpensive pump. It's not bearings or journals. It's the valves. If you want a compressor to live a long life between overhauls buy a comp with pocket valves and change the oil often.

 

[Kscardsfan]

I have 20 years experience in the compressor field. These units are ok for home shop or light commercial or very very light industrial. The valves won't hold up. Thats the weak point on any inexpensive pump. It's not bearings or journals. It's the valves. If you want a compressor to live a long life between overhauls buy a comp with pocket valves and change the oil often.

So what do you suggest for the home purchase?

 

[Xcursion88]

indeed they don't mean everything. High participation simply means a lot of people bought the item. If we knew the % of sales that were reviewed...now that would be far more helpful. Taking the F150 example, I'd expect far more reviews than for say, a Tundra. Yet many folks would consider a Tundra more reliable than an F150.

personally I use reviews as one data point only, and put a LOT more value on somebody who's repairing or selling a bunch of brands over a sustained period. Especially if that person isn't bought by a particular OEM.

And that's all you can do is collect as many data points as you can and make your decision.

It doesn't take long for a bad rep to go through the industry like a brush fire.
Yet that hasn't happened.
Now why is that.

The other part that nobody mentions but very much is a factor is thr sour grapes part.
Any time a company changes a component and the COO changes oh ****...how dare they. It must be bad then. Has to be junk.
Why? Just because.

Chinese Milwaukee Grinders. People went ape ****. Is it really inferior to the USA version? Not that I can tell.
I've had Spicer u-joints from China.
Oh my...how could they!!! Are they inferior? Still the best U-joint you can get.

I'm someone that can't stand Asian made products but in some cases we can't get around that. Unfortunately at times it's the only option. If a company has good designs and things made to their specs...if it was junk or a problem child it's a recipe for chapter 7/11.
Warranty repairs alone will close your doors let alone the bad rep...

 

[Xcursion88]

I have 20 years experience in the compressor field. These units are ok for home shop or light commercial or very very light industrial. The valves won't hold up. Thats the weak point on any inexpensive pump. It's not bearings or journals. It's the valves. If you want a compressor to live a long life between overhauls buy a comp with pocket valves and change the oil often.

I'd hope good maintenance is in anyone's future no matter what they get....
That said I assume the OP wasn't asking about a compressor(s) to air a 20 acre facility running on 3 phase power. TSC doesn't sell those and if they do those kind of purchases happen over cocktails with field sales reps...etc.

Just looking for a simple compressor is what I'm assuming the goal is.?.

 

[bsaint]

So what do you suggest for the home purchase?

The tractor supply unit is fine for home use.

 

[bsaint]

I'd hope good maintenance is in anyone's future no matter what they get....
That said I assume the OP wasn't asking about a compressor(s) to air a 20 acre facility running on 3 phase power. TSC doesn't sell those and if they do those kind of purchases happen over cocktails with field sales reps...etc.

Just looking for a simple compressor is what I'm assuming the goal is.?.

A Jenny compressor has pocket valves. Used to be called Emglo. No sales rep required. You can prob get one locally at a contractor supply house like nail gun or power tools.

 

[Bockscar]

I have one that runs an extremely busy 4 bay garage. We're open 14 hours daily!!!

My question is...why arw you suggesting that you're beating a dead horse?

I've covered this whole topic a few weeks ago.
The perception is nothing more than sour grape ********.

It's the best deal going for an Air Compressor. Period!!!

What I meant by beating a dead horse was that I was creating another compressor thread which I am sure there are many

 

[Bockscar]

I'd hope good maintenance is in anyone's future no matter what they get....
That said I assume the OP wasn't asking about a compressor(s) to air a 20 acre facility running on 3 phase power. TSC doesn't sell those and if they do those kind of purchases happen over cocktails with field sales reps...etc.

Just looking for a simple compressor is what I'm assuming the goal is.?.

My use would be a few times a week in my garage....so no real hard use.....and definitely would keep up on maintenance....oil and draining the tank.....looking at the IR's ....not sure which model to get....60 or 80....dual stage or single

 

[Iron Beaver]

OP, If you've got this far and not been scared off by the spirited debate, here is what I recommend:

1st, I personally wouldn't get a low-end compressor from a high-end brand. (I'm looking at you, Quincy and IR). They are usually overpriced for their build quality and performance. I've seen IR compressors at Tractor Supply with 3450 RPM motors driving pumps held down with what look like sheet metal screws. I've also read lots of reviews talking about failing motors, pumps, and pressure switches.

Meanwhile, my favorite tire shop has two 80 gallon IR industrial compressors. They run the tire shop all day long without problem, but they are a different beast. They are in a totally different league from the questionable stuff sold at TSC with the IR name on it.

If you're going to get a high-end compressor and use it hard every day, don't get it from Tractor Supply. Get a high-end IR, Quincy QR, FS-Curtis, or Saylor-Beall. If you're going to use it occasionally, I would suggest getting a compressor with an ABAC or Chinook pump. Central Pneumatic, Husky (I think), and several others use the ABAC pump, or at least they used to. Rolair uses the Chinook pump and has a very good reputation for light-duty compressors in my area.

Lastly, look around for a deal on something used. Industrial places sometimes upgrade and you can get an industrial compressor for consumer grade compressor prices.

 

[Kscardsfan]

The tractor supply unit is fine for home use.

My next home compressor will be purchased based on CFM and decibel ratings. I hate loud, obnoxious air compressors. My buddy has an older 80 gallon in his shop and when it cycles you have to yell at each other to talk.

 

[dnschmidt]

I really liked the Polar/Eaton also but the shipping costs are so high it makes them really expensive - $775 to ship to Az.
I'm kind of between popping for close to $2800 or just getting something for around $1000 and buying twice more if it fails.....

Not a problem. Buy the Polar Air under the other brand that they use (I think it's EMAX but I'm not sure) at the Home Depot. If I'm not mistaken the shipping is free to the local Home Depot.

 

[dnschmidt]

Second point: Buy a Champion and be done with all of this ****.

 

[MacMcMacmac]

IR single stage made in India pumps had a poor rep at the shop I worked at. They were just hitting the market when I left the field service racket. Having said that, most low end stuff is garbage nowadays, and some companies cheap out buying machines undermatched to the task. If you are getting good service out of one, by all means, keep it well serviced and you might be ok. Those Saylor Beall knockoff pumps everyone loves so much did not enjoy a very long life either when worked hard in an industrial application. They may have spec'ed higher quality internals in the last few years, I don't know, but you can buy them pretty cheap, so I'm thinking not.

Most of the IR v-twin pumps look like Dayleap or Swan products on the 115V portables.

The only way to keep costs to where people are willing to pay the price is to offshore and reduce material input. Nobody is going to pay $5000 for a Quincy 325 bare pump for weekend warrior/small business purposes.

I remember swapping out a well used Swan 5hp compressor at a gas well control shack about 20 years ago and installing a 5hp IR to replace it. Pump rpm was 1500 and I winced when I started it up. Full synthetic! 100% duty cycle!

 

[bsaint]

I always buy used and old. Except watch out for old worthingtons. Some are high speed units. Noisy.

 

[sabinoerc]

Not a problem. Buy the Polar Air under the other brand that they use (I think it's EMAX but I'm not sure) at the Home Depot. If I'm not mistaken the shipping is free to the local Home Depot.

Yeah, I went to look for EMAX next and though listed on Home Depot website they are all “unavailable”, ditto even on Amazon. They seem to be having some supply chain problems. I only found availability for the more expensive models.

 

[bsaint]

Compressors are like tool boxes. They all do the same thing with various levels of quality.

 

[sabinoerc]

Second point: Buy a Champion and be done with all of this ****.

I looked at Champion, SB, EMax, Eaton - all comparable 5hp models, lower rpm motors & pumps, disc valves, some sort of unloader.
best price I could find for Champion was $3500 at CompressorWorld. The SB was $2600 On CompressorWorld which is about the same as the Eaton with shipping.
The EMAX if available was about $2300.
I between waiting for EMAX to become available or buying something from Harbor Freight as described above in thread for about $1k.

Question on IR “T30” or ”Type 30“ v twin pumps.
I read this pump has been around forever and thought perhaps tried and true.
Is the base Type 30 pump the same across their various models or do they put “Type 30” on like a brand and their low end “Type 30” v twin pumps are totally different from higher end “Type 30” pumps. (Addition of pressure oiling system aside).
thanks for advice.

 

[Xcursion88]

Second point: Buy a Champion and be done with all of this ****.

It's always easy spending other people's money.

So if we're comparing apples to apples...
He can get an IR 80 gallon...5hp model..made in America..two stage...
For $1,099

Or it's equal champion counterpart for 3.5 times that amount @$3600

Now given what his intended use will be...it seems pretty foolish to buy something that costs 3.5 times the amount especially considering using this unit as much as he stated.

I say again...
The best deal for the money especially his intended use...

https://www.tractorsupply.com/tsc/product/ingersoll-rand-80-gallon-5-hp-reciprocating-air-compressor

 

[bob15]

It's always easy spending other people's money.

So if we're comparing apples to apples...
He can get an IR 80 gallon...5hp model..made in America..two stage...
For $1,099

Or it's equal champion counterpart for 3.5 times that amount @$3600

Now given what his intended use will be...it seems pretty foolish to buy something that costs 3.5 times the amount especially considering using this unit as much as he stated.

I say again...
The best deal for the money especially his intended use...

https://www.tractorsupply.com/tsc/product/ingersoll-rand-80-gallon-5-hp-reciprocating-air-compressor

Not made, but assembled in the US. Big difference. Go off what is on the compressor, not the TSC spec sheet.

OP, I would be looking at an older used IR over the new ones. You can get the same size tank, bigger & better pump (2 stage Type 30) and more CFM's for less money than this $1100 dollar compressor. If buying new is really want you want, I would be looking at the 2 stage. To answer longevity of an IR Type 30, look at the date code on my compressor:

 

[Xcursion88]

Not made, but assembled in the US. Big difference. Go off what is on the compressor, not the TSC spec sheet.

OP, I would be looking at an older used IR over the new ones. You can get the same size tank, bigger & better pump (2 stage Type 30) and more CFM's for less money than this $1100 dollar compressor. If buying new is really want you want, I would be looking at the 2 stage. To answer longevity of an IR Type 30, look at the date code on my compressor:

Not according to them.

You want to dissect that ok...

But it clearly states made in U.S

Couldn't agree more with your recommendation as the link I provided is a 2 stage.

$1099 with new warranty...if he buys one of their kits for $20 some odd dollars it adds 2 years to the warranty.

I'm not opposed to a used compressor if the only alternative was a $3,500 unit...
The fact remains @ $1099 for a 2 stage 80 gallon ...
It's the best deal in air compressors

 

[bob15]

Just an FYI......picture taken off the IR-made video for the TS4N5.

 

[Rinspeed]

Just an FYI......picture taken off the IR-made video for the TS4N5.

That my friends, is what we call a clue.

 

[bob15]

Bockscar, not sure where you are in OH, but here are a few:

https://columbus.craigslist.org/tls/d/canal-winchester-ingersoll-rand-80gal/7349980912.html

https://cleveland.craigslist.org/tls/d/madison-ingersoll-rand-air-compressor/7349553181.html

https://louisville.craigslist.org/tls/d/lebanon-ingersoll-rand-air-compressor/7354017905.html (this one is a 20-25 cfm.75 psi compressor)

 

[DeeKay]

It's always easy spending other people's money.

So if we're comparing apples to apples...
He can get an IR 80 gallon...5hp model..made in America..two stage...
For $1,099

Or it's equal champion counterpart for 3.5 times that amount @$3600

Now given what his intended use will be...it seems pretty foolish to buy something that costs 3.5 times the amount especially considering using this unit as much as he stated.

I say again...
The best deal for the money especially his intended use...

https://www.tractorsupply.com/tsc/product/ingersoll-rand-80-gallon-5-hp-reciprocating-air-compressor

Are you secretly an Ingersoll Rand sales guy?

 

[American Locomotive]

It doesn't take long for a bad rep to go through the industry like a brush fire.
Yet that hasn't happened.
Now why is that.

The other part that nobody mentions but very much is a factor is thr sour grapes part.
Any time a company changes a component and the COO changes oh ****...how dare they. It must be bad then. Has to be junk.
Why? Just because.

Literally no one mentioned COO until you did.

Their statements were simple: The IR compressors with SS3 and SS5 pumps have some quality issues. We have multiple people in this thread who work in industry or deal with compressors on a near daily basis who have said the new IR pumps and compressors are not as reliable as they once were - especially the TSC specials. Is it better than a $500 Husky compressor from HD? Probably. But it's not a premium industrial compressor.

It's wonderful your compressor has been working fine for you. But your experience is not representative of everyone, and online product reviews from customers are essentially worthless. The only time you will ever see a negative review is either the thing came DOA or failed shortly after purchase. No one is going to come back in 5 years and complain about worn out valves. Especially since it's unlikely that particular model will even be sold for a long amount of time before being switched to a slightly different model with small arbitrary differences.

It's a fine compressor, but it's not really any better built than any other compressor in that price class. It's great that yours has been fine, and other people seeing issues with theirs does not invalidate the success you have had with yours. But the opposite of that is also true - your success does not invalidate others' claims that there are some issues with these models.

 

[Xcursion88]

Literally no one mentioned COO until you did.

Their statements were simple: The IR compressors with SS3 and SS5 pumps have some quality issues. We have multiple people in this thread who work in industry or deal with compressors on a near daily basis who have said the new IR pumps and compressors are not as reliable as they once were - especially the TSC specials. Is it better than a $500 Husky compressor from HD? Probably. But it's not a premium industrial compressor.

It's wonderful your compressor has been working fine for you. But your experience is not representative of everyone, and online product reviews from customers are essentially worthless. The only time you will ever see a negative review is either the thing came DOA or failed shortly after purchase. No one is going to come back in 5 years and complain about worn out valves. Especially since it's unlikely that particular model will even be sold for a long amount of time before being switched to a slightly different model with small arbitrary differences.

It's a fine compressor, but it's not really any better built than any other compressor in that price class. It's great that yours has been fine, and other people seeing issues with theirs does not invalidate the success you have had with yours. But the opposite of that is also true - your success does not invalidate others' claims that there are some issues with these models.

India has been mentioned and implied not only by yours truly but others.

Nobody here has a crystal ball about any of this stuff least of all me.
I merely opined my first hand personal experience of use every day approximately 12 plus hours, 6 days a week.
Removing my experience and any of my colleagues and ptheir experience...
I brought up 860+ reviews with a 4.5 of 5.0 score on a particular model to just simply point out that if there significant or reoccurring problems there's no way with nearly 1000 reviews it would score a 4.5 of 5.0 average.
Reviews aren't everything and yes people get excited after a purchase but make no mistake in these present times they also get back on and update or change their review...whatever. They want blood and damn it they'll get vengeance.

I say again that 80 gallon two stage unit @$1099 is an excellent buy.
Especially with what the OP is looking to do with it...