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I'm currently shopping for a good air compressor that I primarily want for HVLP spraying. I would greatly appreciate it if any of you could recommend make recommendations keeping in mind that this member is like the ol' hot rodders...a poor man.
I'm also shopping for a good HVLP so if you have one worth recommending please recommend it.
A search in the 'paint and body' forum should be helpful, topic has come up on number of occasions. Not an authority but also looking for a compressor. Prefer 'the most bang for my buck', that is, the most cfm I can afford. I would like a 2 stage vs single stage and a pressure oil sys. vs an oiless or sump type oil system. A great deal also depends on electrical source, same issue I am faced with in selecting a MIG welder, the 120 v. is convenient but has its limitations. Of course with these desired features there comes a cost. Understand Quincy has a good reputation, as does Speedair, and a number of others, keeping in mind you get what you pay for. As far as HVLP systems, here is the a description in Eastwoods tech section may find helpful, kinda expensive but shop around there are number of systems out there. Hopefully member with first hand experience will provide additional info. I tend to spend more time researching before ever getting around to purchasing. Currently holding off, intend running 220 v. and going for a unit where I can get minimum of 12cfm. I now have a small shop compressor at 6.7cfm and work the thing to death, constantly running to keep up. Anyhow, had an urge to chime in and add my $.02.
FWIW again- if you plan on painting and or using air on a long term pumping like small sand blasting or painting steer clear of the units that have a direct drive from the motor to the pump. usually a aluminum compressor an they work good for airing up a tire but past experience has taught me that these cheep models get very hot under long term use and will quit. i have never owned on but i have three friends that have and all of them have failed under hard use. Davengelson has the right idea. you get what you pay for. belt driven are by far superior. Dutch
Hey Thanks Folks. I really appreciate the feedback and participation on this thread. I'll check the forums referenced here. Here's a good site I came across:
Which ever compressor you get, make sure you put it in a place with plenty of ventilation. Compressors are air-cooled. Even placing a good shop fan on or near one will increase longevity.