Need Help w/ Compressor Purchase

[Jeff]

Hey Guys...the hand-me-down air compressor I've been using just ain't cutting it any more. I need something that can handle grinding and sanding when I start a small restoration project this week.

I understand the basics: CFM vs HP vs Capacity vs Drive Type. I can't afford one of those $1500 IR compressors. My budget is $500.

I found this compressor at Lowe's, with disc/tax out the door is $456.

Advice? Comments?

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Here's the description and specs from Lowe's:

3.7 HP 60-Gallon 155 PSI Electric Air Compressor

• This one air compressor powers all the tools you need for woodworking and auto restoration jobs
• Finish over 100 jobs such as automotive spray painting, automotive sanding work, cutting sheet metal, grinding
• Great for removing lug nuts and rotating tires, repairing engines and exhaust systems, sharpening blades, sanding wood, inflating car tires, cleaning workbench area, installing trim
• Longer life pump - durable and reliable cast iron, twin cylinder oil- lubricated pump designed for up to 5000 hours
• High quality, easy -to-read gauges
• Durable 60 gallon ASME code tank for safe, reliable operation
• Powerful 230 volt, 3.7 (running) HP motor (per ISO1217 standards)
• 155 Max PSI, 11.5 SCFM @ 90 PSI
• Three year limited warranty

<table><tbody><tr><td class="lcol">UL Safety Listing</td><td class="rcol">No</td></tr><tr class="shade"><td>CSA Safety Listing</td><td>Yes</td></tr><tr><td class="lcol">ETL Safety Listing</td><td class="rcol">No</td></tr><tr class="shade"><td>Gas or Electric</td><td>Electric</td></tr><tr><td class="lcol">Horsepower (HP)</td><td class="rcol">3.7</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table><tbody><tr class="shade"><td>Tank Capacity (Gallons)</td><td>60.0</td></tr><tr><td class="lcol">Tank Type</td><td class="rcol">Stationary</td></tr><tr class="shade"><td>Air Compressor Voltage</td><td>230</td></tr><tr><td class="lcol">Amps (Amps)</td><td class="rcol">15.0</td></tr><tr class="shade"><td>Warranty</td><td>3</td></tr></tbody></table>

 

[930dreamer]

Hello, the compressor will probably fit your needs, ie filling tires, light impact work, cleaning etc. Don't expect it to last forever, and when it breaks it won't be worth it to fix. Just my .02

 

[70Camaro]

Find a old American Made one!!

 

[Mr.N]

Find a old American Made one!!

x2

Search Craig list and if you've time you'll be able to find something nicer.

 

[pipsters]

Hello, the compressor will probably fit your needs, ie filling tires, light impact work, cleaning etc. Don't expect it to last forever, and when it breaks it won't be worth it to fix. Just my .02

Oh dear God

 

[smallcarguy]

imho, that doesnt seem like a bad machine for the money, and for what you want to use it for it seems like a good fit. One thing I always think is worth looking into, two smaller compressors run in tandem. You might be surprised at the cfm per dollar you can get by doing this.

 

[jayoldschool]

There are a ton of those around used, for about half that price. They are sold under different names, too.

Here's mine: