Compressor Options

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

Jul 17, 2006 | 10:32 AM

twg1966

Thread Starter

Trying to Gain Knowledge

Joined: Jun 2003

Posts: 1,571

Likes: 2

From: Ezzell, TX

Compressor Options

I can get an Ingersoll Rand compressor capable of putting out 11.3 cfm at 90 psi for around 500+ tax. I plan on using more and more air tools and getting away from the electric tools that don't seem to hold up. Is this a good starting point for such plans? I currently have an inexpensive impact wrench, a air ratchet, die grinder and cutoff tool. Will expand as time and money allow, just want to have as good a starting point for such plans. This is in a garage and will not be used a lot but will be used to clean up an occasional appliance loosen the tight bolts, etc. Just my curiosity as I know the oil less compressor I do have can not handle the job.

Ted

Jul 17, 2006 | 11:32 AM

twg1966

Thread Starter

Trying to Gain Knowledge

Joined: Jun 2003

Posts: 1,571

Likes: 2

From: Ezzell, TX

I can also get a US General compressor for about $400. Man too many options.

Jul 17, 2006 | 02:55 PM

twg1966

Thread Starter

Trying to Gain Knowledge

Joined: Jun 2003

Posts: 1,571

Likes: 2

From: Ezzell, TX

Nevermind guys! I have narrowed my selection down to an Ingersoll Rand, US General and Kobalt. Will let you know what I get. All priced between 400 and 500. Capable of 11.2 to 13.0 cfm at 90 psi.

Jul 18, 2006 | 09:58 AM

rlh

Posting Guru

Joined: Sep 2003

Posts: 2,259

Likes: 0

From: Florida Hill Country

Think about what tools you plan to add in the future. For example, if you plan on using an inline sander or da sander, you may be disappointed with a single stage compressor.

Jul 18, 2006 | 10:09 AM

frederic

Post Fiend

Joined: Oct 2003

Posts: 6,214

Likes: 13

From: New Jersey

Yep, and single stage compessor may run out of air or remain on too long and overheat, when using tools such as a sander, or a really large plasma cutter. It's totally doable of course, but you have to stop every so often to allow the compressor the opportunity to catch up.

Which for a home mechanic, is probably just fine. Have any of us sanded an entire car front to back, top to bottom, without putting the air sander down?

I don't know about you guys, but I like to have a smoke and sip a beer here and there while working.

Jul 18, 2006 | 10:50 AM

twg1966

Thread Starter

Trying to Gain Knowledge

Joined: Jun 2003

Posts: 1,571

Likes: 2

From: Ezzell, TX

I will have to put down the tools more frequently than most as I am mainly a desk jockey and like to piddle with my tools. The first project I have in mind is totally cleaning the paint off of an old refrigerator and cleaning it up before repainting and putting new gasket and some liner repairs to store the beer I don't yet have a chance to drink.

Ted

Jul 18, 2006 | 11:05 AM

rlh

Posting Guru

Joined: Sep 2003

Posts: 2,259

Likes: 0

From: Florida Hill Country

Which Kobalt are you considering? They have two 60 gal single stage units. one is ~429 here and the other 499. The 499 is worth the extra $70. I'm curious as to what IR you can get for < $500.