Thoughts on a used air compressor

[adamr]

So my small air compressor that I got many, many years ago has served me well... but now that I want to do some summer projects, looking to upgrade.

I've been considering this one:
http://raleigh.craigslist.org/tls/5039258127.html

I'll have to run a 220v outlet, but that's no big deal.

I'd me more than happy to get some advice on whether or not this is a decent compressor, and what to look for when it comes to a compressor.

Oh yeah, forgot to mention... I'll be running impact wrenches, ratchets, and probably a paint gun.

 

[goodysgotacuda]

I don't think I'd consider an oil-less for a 220v compressor. But that's just my 2cents.

A Motor/Pump configuration will be much quieter and probably put out better numbers for you.

 

[finn]

Ignore the power rating, as that compressor was made before the lawsuits over inflated power claims for small compressors. Check the actual air delivery (scfm) and compare to your tool requirement. It will probably be ok for most air tools in a home garage, but will struggle with a DA sander.

It's oilless, and probably direct drive, so expect a lot of noise.

If you can get it for less than $100, it may make an ok starter compressor. As a long term investment, I'd look for a belt drive unit, but you'll pay a lot more.

 

[adamr]

Noise isn't the biggest concern of mine, I just want one that will last, but will be enough for most home DIY

 

[Fretters]

Noise isn't the biggest concern of mine

Try working near an oil free direct drive compressor for any length of time, and it soon will be.

I just want one that will last, but will be enough for most home DIY

Even if it's only for DIY use, if it's for anything more than mere occasional use, you'd be better with a half decent belt drive compressor.

 

[therealaveragej]

Watch out for holes in the compressor or undrained compressors. If it has not been drained at regular intervals you will see a lot of rust.

 

[therealaveragej]

What are your plans for it?

 

[adamr]

I plan to be using an impact wrench/ratchet and a paint sprayer. Mostly for general auto maintenance and a few summer projects I have planned

 

[larry_g]

I suggest you look further. That is not a compressor that is built for long term projects and long life.

lg
no neat sig line

 

[adamr]

What's a decent price to pay then for a belt driven compressor that can easily handle what I need it to handle?

 

[therealaveragej]

$500-5000
If you really want a good compressor, you will need to open up the purse strings. I made the mistake of buying a cheaper 29 gallon harbor freight when I should have saved the money. It works decent for right now but I have big time compressor envy.

 

[goodysgotacuda]

What's a decent price to pay then for a belt driven compressor that can easily handle what I need it to handle?

I paid $150 for an older 220v with a 30gal tank. "It depends" on how patient you are.

 

[adamr]

Are 120v compressors completely out of the question?
Found this while hunting: http://raleigh.craigslist.org/tls/5023220809.html

 

[adamr]

The one linked is also belt-driven, from what I've read

 

[G_P]

Noise isn't the biggest concern of mine, I just want one that will last, but will be enough for most home DIY

If you want a compressor that will last, stay away from an oilless.

 

[kythri]

There's a LOT of hyperbole in this thread - an oil-less compressor will do you just fine, especially for the price. If nothing else, it's a "starter" unit that you can get your money back on, no problem, if/when you choose to upgrade to something heftier.

The 220V originally linked will probably run both 110V/220V - that doesn't look like the factory plug on that.

I'd buy the black "Craftsman Professional" 33-gallon before I'd buy the red "Craftsman" 33-gallon, and $100 is a hell of a deal on it.

The black one is nowhere near 6.5HP, though - 1.8HP max at 110V, maybe 2.5HP-3HP at 220V, MAYBE.

I own a red 33-gallon Craftsman, and it's a great unit for most daily stuff.

I also own an 80 gallon CH with a true 7.5HP motor, and I still use the Craftsman rather often (haven't fully plumbed my shop for the big beast). 8 years, still going strong. Loud? That's relative. It's not THAT loud, all things considered.

The red one is a sale item for $300-$340 normally. The black "Craftsman Professional" is more. If that thing was local, I wouldn't hesitate to snag it.

 

[Squankum]

I would not hesitate. Craftsman Professional is always some seriously good stuff.

_

 

[larry_g]

http://raleigh.craigslist.org/tls/5058636923.html

I'd suggest that you look at something like the above. One advantage I see in the above is that you have a motor and a compressor head and a pressure switch. Any one component is bad and it is an easy fix. The one that you show have the pump integrated into the motor and is something fails it is probably trash time for the whole works. I also seen a Kellogg a bit down the page from the one above for $500 or so. That would be a great compressor to have if it is within your range. http://raleigh.craigslist.org/tls/5058625609.html

lg
no neat sigline

 

[adamr]

Thoughts on this one:
http://raleigh.craigslist.org/tls/5060085175.html

It's oiled, and it's belt driven... Little bit older, but that shouldn't be too much worry, hopefully.

 

[bczygan]

http://raleigh.craigslist.org/pts/5061679700.html