Need to buy an air compressor

[lowcountrygamecock]

I'm in the market for an air compressor and need some recommendations. I'm looking for a 60 gallon compressor for my shop and will be setting up an air system with 3 to 4 drop. Mostly light duty work with no heavy duty grinding or sand blasting. Looking to spend less than $900. I had my eye on the ingersol rand 5 hp, 60 gallon unit but after reading reviews it sounds like the pump on those is ****. Anybody have a better suggestion? I don't want to break the bank but I want something that will have enough cfm for what I need and that will last.

 

[NHBandit]

I just bought a Campbell Hausfeld from Tractor Supply and when I lived up North I had the exact same model and in 6 years of regular use I never had a problem. I paid $429 on sale but I think the sale ended last month. Regular price is $469. It's exactly the same compressor Home Depot & Lowes sell other than the color and the decal on the front. If I remember correctly Lowes calls it Kobalt & Home Depot calls it either Husky or Black Max (can't remember). Anyway they are all the same compressor so shop for the best price. http://www.tractorsupply.com/webapp...ory_rn=&top_category=&urlLangId=&cm_vc=-10005

 

[Spareparts]

The last compressors I bought were from North
central Air in Downs Ks. 18.4 cfm 80 gal tank 1735 rpm motor 5 hp magnetic starter
535 rpm on the compressor head. 1st one was purchased in 1996 and still going strong price was $1085. 2nd one was in 2006 and that price was $1185. little over your price but they last for ever, trick is find a compressor that runs in the 500 to 550 rpm range and puts out the air you require. A lot of the compressors spin faster to get tke CFM up and don't last long and are noisy, sound like a chain saw running in the bacf of the shop

 

[dmeadow]

I've been doing a lot of research on this subject, but haven't pulled the trigger, yet. I'm also looking for 60 gallon. I've been waffling over whether I need a 3 hp or a 5 hp.

If I go with the 3 it will be a Puma at Northern Tool. It gets rave reviews and is priced right at ~$500.

If I want more than that then I'll get the two-phase that Harbor Freight sells for ~$800. It gets good reviews (though not rave) and is the least expensive two-phase out there. Most 5 hp single phase cost more. Despite some folks thinking HF is the devil, this particular item has good components and is sold elsewhere under different names for more money.

Both these stores are local to me so shipping isn't a cost factor.

 

[lowcountrygamecock]

good suggestions so far. Anybody else? How about anyone with experience with the IR 5hp, 60 gallon. I'm skeptical reading reviews sometimes because you never know someone's motive for posting a review. In this case though it must be a legitimate problem based on the number of bad reviews.

 

[Davefr]

good suggestions so far. Anybody else? How about anyone with experience with the IR 5hp, 60 gallon. I'm skeptical reading reviews sometimes because you never know someone's motive for posting a review. In this case though it must be a legitimate problem based on the number of bad reviews.

Count me in as an IR hater. Their non industrial 60 gallon units are garbage IMHO. (primarily due to crappy pumps)

My reed valves self destructed after about 2 years and cost me around $200 in parts which was highway robbery. Then a few years later it blew a head gasket. IR no longer carries something as simple as a head gasket so I had to make my own.

I'd buy a HF unit before IR.

 

[Nelson077]

I have this one and it's been great from Harbor Freight.

http://www.harborfreight.com/air-to...n-165-psi-two-stage-air-compressor-93274.html

Nelson 007

 

[kesslerbmw]

I've got a Brand New SS5L5 IR that I've owned for 3 years now but haven't hooked up. I did a bunch of research when I bought and wanted something like what you're looking for, it seemed to be the best at the time. It was like $900 and I wanted something I could buy parts for in the future.

 

[hardly]

One more vote for the Puma; really like my model 6060 - 3h.p. Best value for the price..

 

[AndyA]

I think the type-30 compressors from IR are good, but that puts you at least 30% over your stated budget to get in that range. I don't have any experience with their smaller compressors so I can't say.

 

[rickyboy]

Does a guy really need a two stage compressor for a hobby garage. You know, ...you're the only one in there running one tool at a time sorta thing.??
Not to be confused here,....This is meant as a question and not a statement. I was just wonder'in.
I bought a small H.F. compressor,
http://www.harborfreight.com/2-hors...-iron-vertical-air-compressor-68127-8026.html
but haven't used it yet. I'm still setting things up in the garage at the place I haven't even moved to yet. {retirement is coming}

 

[RECox286]

If you are considering the HF compressor, and if you are somewhat

leery about the quality, don't forget they will love to sell you an

"extended waranty" for a (?) reasonable price. Still cheaper than

a lot of other places will charge for just the machine alone. If I

were you, I'd be thinking along those lines.

Uncle Bob

 

[swickg]

Does a guy really need a two stage compressor for a hobby garage. You know, ...you're the only one in there running one tool at a time sorta thing.??
Not to be confused here,....This is meant as a question and not a statement. I was just wonder'in.
I bought a small H.F. compressor,
http://www.harborfreight.com/2-hors...-iron-vertical-air-compressor-68127-8026.html
but haven't used it yet. I'm still setting things up in the garage at the place I haven't even moved to yet. {retirement is coming}

To answer that question.....it depends on the hobby. If you are running a sander, grinder or blast cabinet you most likely will need the 2 stage or listen to your compressor run non-stop.

 

[DirtRoad]

I just bought the husky 60 gallon at home depot. Its $459 and if you open a card with them and put the purchase on the card you get $20 off. After i did that i whipped out cash and paid it off in full right on the spot, the clerk thought it was hilarious.

I spent two years looking at 60 gallon single stage compressors and what i have found about them is they are pretty much all the same. The differences, if any at all, is just splitting hairs.

I wanted to get the puma at northern tool but it didnt make sense to spend $500 and then $140 for shipping when i could get the husky for $465 out the door.

Also dont forget that buying one is only part of the cost, getting them up and running adds up fast too. Its easy to spend as much on the setup as you spent on the compressor if you get to carried away.

 

[Higgins]

For us, the biggest hurtle was the shipping costs. They ranged from $300 - $400, then there was the lift gate svc of $75 - $100, and one shipped added on $50 for delivering to a residence...........

 

[DirtRoad]

Ya shipping is a killer on these big purchases. Buy local if possible, bring it home yourself.

 

[Aeroman]

I just bought a Campbell Hausfeld from Tractor Supply and when I lived up North I had the exact same model and in 6 years of regular use I never had a problem. I paid $429 on sale but I think the sale ended last month. Regular price is $469. It's exactly the same compressor Home Depot & Lowes sell other than the color and the decal on the front. If I remember correctly Lowes calls it Kobalt & Home Depot calls it either Husky or Black Max (can't remember). Anyway they are all the same compressor so shop for the best price. http://www.tractorsupply.com/webapp...ory_rn=&top_category=&urlLangId=&cm_vc=-10005

I bought the same one back in 2005 and have been really happy with it. For a 3-car garage with 4 drops, it does just fine.

 

[Shadowdog500]

I bought a IR SS5L5 about a year and a half ago and still like mine. It runs my blast cabinet no problem and I've never run out of air.

If you aren't bead blasting, painting, or running a DA sander why are you looking for a $900 compressor? I ran my impact guns, air ratchets,etc on a 2HP 20 gallon tank crafstman compressor for about 25 years no problem. I only upgraded because I wanted to run my bead blast cabinet and blow out my new sprinkler system.

Chris

 

[38Chevy454]

I have this one and it's been great from Harbor Freight.

http://www.harborfreight.com/air-to...n-165-psi-two-stage-air-compressor-93274.html

Nelson 007

I have the same one, although about 8 years old now. Has been a good compressor for my needs. I think it is quiet enough, just in the open in my garage and it does not bother me, my air tools are louder than the compressor.

 

[lowcountrygamecock]

I didn't mention it but i would like the ability to do some painting in the future. it's one of those things where i don't want to regret buying small down the road when for 1/4 more money i can be sure to have enough. It's like boat motors, I have never heard anybody say their motor is too fast.

 

[DirtRoad]

A single stage 60 gallon compressor will do just fine painting, sanding and running tools like die grinders. Your a one man show im assuming, if so you will be just fine.

 

[bfarroo]

I have a Sanborn from Menards. Probably the same as all the other 60 Gal Compressors. I run Die grinders, DA Sanders, Blasting Cabinet, Paint Guns, ect. For a general shop compressor it's been a good compressor. I change the oil and filter every year and haven't had a single problem. It's going on 10 years old now.

 

[NUTTSGT]

I just bought a Campbell Hausfeld from Tractor Supply and when I lived up North I had the exact same model and in 6 years of regular use I never had a problem. I paid $429 on sale but I think the sale ended last month. Regular price is $469. It's exactly the same compressor Home Depot & Lowes sell other than the color and the decal on the front. If I remember correctly Lowes calls it Kobalt & Home Depot calls it either Husky or Black Max (can't remember). Anyway they are all the same compressor so shop for the best price. http://www.tractorsupply.com/webapp...ory_rn=&top_category=&urlLangId=&cm_vc=-10005

I'd probably going to TSC, I just got a 15% off coupon in the recent flyer. I think I get them since I signed up online to received emails about sales. I believe it put me on their mailing list too.

 

[71goldss]

For us, the biggest hurtle was the shipping costs. They ranged from $300 - $400, then there was the lift gate svc of $75 - $100, and one shipped added on $50 for delivering to a residence...........

Many of the compressor sellers; Air Compressors Direct, Northern Tool, etc. offer free shipping on compressors. Purchased my 2 stage 60 Quincy from Northern Tool with free shipping. These dealers also have ebay stores that are sometimes cheaper than buying direct through their websites. Got mine thru Northern's ebay store. I think I saved $100 by doing so, if I remember correctly.

 

[lowcountrygamecock]

So I think 60 gallon is the way to go. But now the other part is cfm. Is 11-12 cfm enough for what I've talked about? One man show doing mostly small tool hobby work and woodworking along with some painting. Or do I need to bump up to a 5 hp machine to get more cfm?

 

[CNGsaves]

So I think 60 gallon is the way to go. But now the other part is cfm. Is 11-12 cfm enough for what I've talked about? One man show doing mostly small tool hobby work and woodworking along with some painting. Or do I need to bump up to a 5 hp machine to get more cfm?

What's your budget?? Looking to spend $200 or $2,000??

I'd recommend watching CL in your area as someone is always upgrading or downgrading compressors at any given time.

Sounds like something in "middle" would do you fine so a used 5 to 7 HP 60 gallon single stage would be plenty for your needs. I got mine for $220 (Coleman Powermate 6.5 HP 60 gallon) from guy who upgraded to 80 gallon.

 

[lowcountrygamecock]

$900 budget

 

[ihateimacs]

I just bought a Campbell Hausfeld from Tractor Supply and when I lived up North I had the exact same model and in 6 years of regular use I never had a problem. I paid $429 on sale but I think the sale ended last month. Regular price is $469. It's exactly the same compressor Home Depot & Lowes sell other than the color and the decal on the front. If I remember correctly Lowes calls it Kobalt & Home Depot calls it either Husky or Black Max (can't remember). Anyway they are all the same compressor so shop for the best price. http://www.tractorsupply.com/webapp...ory_rn=&top_category=&urlLangId=&cm_vc=-10005

I have the lowes version (kobalt 60 gallon) and like it so far. Havent used it as much as I would have like, but so far so good. The wife bought it for me and I didnt realize it was made by Campbell until I read the instructions. Could have saved the $50 but the flat black looks good.

 

[CNGsaves]

Oops . . . my bad I didn't see that $900 budget in earlier post.

If you're near a Tractor Supply and want a new compressor, this one would be nice first compressor (ie since prices cheaper if you pickup compressor). Specs are 3.2 HP / 60 gallon / 10.2 CFM @ 90 psi which is decent. I'd personally like more HP and generally you should get 11 CFM w/ 60 gallon.
http://www.tractorsupply.com/webapp...ory_rn=&top_category=&urlLangId=&cm_vc=-10005

Hey, used my old trick of Google with search:
60 gallon compressor site:craigslist.org

FOUND YOU A WINNER for $450- -Road Trip to Nashville, TN area:
http://nashville.craigslist.org/tls/3647835738.html
Snap on / 60 gallon / 11.2 CFM @ 90 psi - - - $450

Good luck in your decision.

EDIT: If this one's closer to you - - Canfield, OH - - - $399 for CH 5 HP / 60 gal / 10.2 CFM @ 90 psi
http://youngstown.craigslist.org/tld/3610020276.html

 

[DirtRoad]

I watched cl for a compressor for years, very rare for anything above 30 gallon oiles to pop up and when they do they cost almost as much as new.

Also its pretty nice when buying new just for the loading into your truck/trailer with a hi-lo factor.

 

[lowcountrygamecock]

Ok so I spent a lot of time reading reviews and comments this weekend and I like the looks of the kobalt compressors. Now the BIG question is would you buy the 3.7 hp 60 gallon or the 5 hp 80 gallon? I plan on putting in an air system with four drops but will only be using 1 drop/tool at a time. I assume painting or grinding would be the heaviest load I would have. If I spray its more likely to be cabinet doors as I do more woodworking than anything. If I was doing anything with a grinder it would most likely be with a buffing attachment to buff my boat. So what I'm getting at is i have little need for a ton of cfm. But I don't want to regret buying the smaller compressor. Help please!

 

[DirtRoad]

Did you really read the reviews on the kobalts? I read them and they scared me enough to buy the husky at hd lol

 

[admranger]

All I know about compressors is that I'll never own another oil-less one. The noise is stupid. I hardly ever use mine now due to the noise.

Battery operated tools have replaced most of my air tools.

 

[lowcountrygamecock]

Yeah I did and didn't see much on bad reviews. I'll keep digging and will look at the husky. Still haven't found a good recommendation on cfm. Is 11.3 enough for what I'm planning on doing?

 

[Illini Pete]

Anybody have experience or opinions on Blain's Farm & Fleet Industrial Air 60 gal, 155 psi, 11.5 CFM @90 psi? http://www.farmandfleet.com/product...allon-belt-drive-compressor.html#.UTZXKVf_b8t
I've bought lots of stuff at F&F from Milwaukee to their store brand Duracraft and have never been disappointed. I'm outfitting a shop and will be using a sand blaster, blast cabinet, hvlp gun and other air tools. Most blast cabinets I've seen need at least 10 CFM @90. Thoughts or opinions appreciated.

Thanks,Pete

 

[sophijo]

Here ya go: free freight and liftgate Puma

http://www.aircompressorsdirect.com/tools/puma-single-stage-air-compressors.html

 

[DirtRoad]

Its not really free, the shipping costs are wrapped into the price of the compressor. Ive seen that compressor at NT for close to $500 and ive seen it under $500 on a few other sites.

 

[pwhittle]

Same Puma at Northerntool for $529.99 store pickup.

http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200455341_200455341

Paul