Looking at new compressors

[cabranch47]

Hi, I have been reading this forum daily for some time. Great ideas and information. I need some real user opinions for replacing my 33 gal. oil less noise maker. For various reasons I have narrowed it down to the Kobalt, Porter Cable, and Rigid 60 gal. compressors (note: good used compressors are not available in my area so let's don't go there please). If anybody has any user reviews or suggestions I would appreciate it. I just have a hobby wood/metalworking shop. Thanks in advance for your thoughts.

 

[Jim Johnstone]

If those are your choices I would go with whatever one has the best warranty. None of those manufacturers make their own compressors, so it's likely they just purchase from the likes of cambell hausfeld. The other consideration would be which one has the lowest pump speed. High rpm makes noise and wears out quicker.

 

[Todd.Brock]

I would looks the specs and figure out which one is best. I would imagine there is no real difference between the three. Hell- they might be the same compressor.

 

[jallyn]

Of the 3 you listed I trust Ridgid more than Porter Cable. And I trust Porter Cable more than Kobalt.

 

[cabranch47]

Thanks for the feedback so far. I looked at all of the spec but none of them listed the motor speed. I am guessing they are all the same. Looking for the lowest speed as suggested.

 

[cabranch47]

I mistakenly listed Rigid as one of my choices, I meant Husky. Maybe no difference anyway.

 

[CompressorPros.com]

Outside of low price, what are you looking for in a compressor?

 

[jallyn]

as others have said compressor speed affects noise and life...slower is better. you can quickly estimate it using a tape measure and a calculator. Just write down these 3 pieces of info...
1. motor nameplate RPM
2. diameter of motor pulley
3. diameter of compressor pulley

Then plug them into this formula:
compressor RPM = (motor RPM) X (motor pulley diameter) / (compressor pulley diameter)

 

[mikester]

Look at the tank on the Husky. That will probably tell you who really makes the compressor. I have a 60 gallon CH and my buddy bought a Husky a year later. They were identical. He called the number in the Husky manual and it was CH.

 

[blown94conv]

Look at the SCFM @ PSI spec, much more important then horsepower or tank size.