Zehner189

I'm basically turning my home garage into well a home garage! I've got a pretty extensive set of tools, and I'm looking to get my own set of impact and air tools. I was wondering how big of a compressor I need? I know I need atleast 5SCFM, and a 90psi output. But I was wondering how big the tank needs to be. Any imput would be nice.

elderberry

bigger is better

Zehner189

Bigger is better. But I found the proper output I need is some 5gal capacity compressors. But I was wondering if I should go for a 20gal or bigger. Didn't know if capacity mattered that much. Cause I'm trying to do this on a decent budget.

hotwheels57

It depends on how much you'll be using the compressor, types of air tools you'll typically be using, etc. If you're using it just for blowing off dust/water, then a smaller tank may suffice. Smaller tanks will constantly be recycling during which time you can't power your air tools.

I'd chose no less than a 30 gallon/5hp. And you might consider 220v instead of 110v if you do plan to use the compressor a lot.

My 60 gallon/6.5hp/220v is sufficient to run any air tool w/o recycling so often that progress is impeded. That's a lot of noise/heat when it's recycling. I have a three way manifold port directly off the regulator and filter that allows me to connect three hoses with different air tools as well.

I would not recommend an oil less compressor.

Zehner189

Well I'll just be using it for an impact air tools, as well as some possible paint projects in the future. I found a good 33gal compressor by craftsman. I figured the smaller the tank the more it'll be kicking on and off. So I'll shop around and see what I can find.

hotwheels57

Air impact tools and especially painting (unless you're talking about air brush painting) use a lot of air pressure...so plan for your future needs when buying.

I made the mistake of buying a smaller compressor (20 gallon) the first time. The compressor couldn't keep up with my requirements. I sold a virtually new compressor for a big loss to get the larger unit.

Check with not only SEAR'S, but also LOWE'S and HOME DEPOT. Or, you might find something at COSTCO or SAM'S CLUB. If you have local shops that do warranty repair for the big vendors, they might have a good deal on a used compressor.

If you have to wait a little longer to get a larger compressor, it might be worth it in the long run.

Last C5

I use a 5 hp 60 gal Ingersoll Rand and it will run anything I'm using without a lot of recycling.

Cirrus8

Three years ago, I got a 2 hp, 8 gal compressor, 1/2 and 3/8 impact tools with a full set of metric and SAE standard and deep sockets from Harbor Freight. I am a light duty user (tire rotation, inflation, compressed air to blow things out or dry,etc). The whole kit and kaboodle cost approx $180. Three years and no problems. I see that Harbor Freight has the same compressor on sale for $80. It is all made in China but so is most other stuff (IR, Craftsman, etc).

Zehner189

Well I'm looking to get into some major work. I'm going to rebuild a wrecked vette for my wife here soon, so I'm going to need something pretty reliable and lasting. I guess I'll hold out for a bigger set up. It'll be worth it in the long run.

RSchleder

Are you considering a "full belt driven compressor" or a belt-less one. This will make a big difference in the recovery time to keep up with air tools etc. When my belt driven compressor failed, I bought a belt-less one and I've regretted it ever since. It is really unacceptable to use when powering an air tool like a grinder or cutting wheel.

Zehner189

Sounds good. I've been looking around a lot online, and on ebay. Found a few options but looks like I'm going to have to wait it out a bit. I have some major plans for the vette and I want to get them done by August so I'll hold off on the air tools and system. So far I haven't needed them yet.

ajg1915

Craftsman sells a lot of nice home Garage units as does Home Depot and Lowes. Unless you're a professional mechanic, these compressor will work well for doing most jobs.

k0ts

I'd stay away from the "oil-less"... They don't last very long if you use them... Go with belt drive with oil... And I'd agree, bigger is better..

corvettebob1

If you can find it a Ingersoll Rand T-10 upright 60 gal with the alumunim compresser dual phase 220v.
Bought mine @ a local tool store some years ago never had to even add oil.
And it's had some fairly heavy usage ie. paint & body work besides impact tools.

ajg1915

I've had an oil-less for over 12 years, no problems at all and I use it quite a bit.

tlc0706

The guys are telling you right! I have a 2HP/30 gal and while it was OK for the small projects for several years, it just can't handle die grinders, cutters or such....I'm also in the market for at least a 5 HP...GL

mitchcole

but not because they don't last long...they'reLOUD

Oil bath (normal) compressors are far less noisy than the buzz saw sound of my DevilBiss 4 HP 30 gal. I bought it at costco in 95. Flawless operation. It's just too loud.

It just keeps going and going. I want it to break in order to justify a replacement.

tiojames

I have had an oil-less 60 gal. for right at 20 years now and never had any trouble. I have used it to run chipping hammers and the like. It is a noisy sucker, tho.

ajg1915

mine vibrates so much that it actual moves around a bit when I use it.

abigfoot

If your going to paint, 60 gallon minimum tank. Get a two stage 5 or six horse 240V. It will run everything.