That Curtis compressor deserves a closer look.
That's a true 5 running HP motor, and at 18 CFM, that's a two stage.
It is unusual to find used compressors on Craigslist where all the most sought for elements are combined...
- industrial rated
- American brand (Curtis)
- Single Phase (not 3 phase, like so many of the used ones on CL)
- Two Stage (capable of storing air at 175 psi, meaning more time between cycles)
- less than 20 years old (judging by the typeface of the Curtis logo)
- high flow capacity (above 17 cfm)
- ample storage capacity (80 gallon)
- not mucked with by previous owners (original paint, original parts, original config.)
- not a Frankenstein with parts cobbled together from odds and ends or different mfrs.
- includes magnetic starter (expensive to buy)
- no visible gross exterior corrosion (but must check tank!)
I did noticed that the intermediate air radiator on the head appears to have lost the original paint, indicating that thing got really hot (used a lot), so I'd definitely hear it run before pulling the gun on it.
Also, the oil and dirt film on the tank indicates some blow by through the breather, of something else. I'd want to research what the something else might be, and price out those gaskets, rings, or parts.
And I'd definitely do everything you can to check the tank condition inside... drain it before starting, drain it after running to make sure that both water and compressed air blow out of the drain, and ask if you can open an inspection plug and stick in a bendi light and look inside.
If all that checks out, I'd offer twice what the more shrewd and savvy members on this board are suggesting. Try pricing what a new Curtis of that size and type would be... something like $2,500 I believe. I'd give up $800 for this one, if everything was to my liking. Maybe $850 if the seller put up with me nicely through all of my tests and checks.
