home compressor

[isaacm66]

I used to do autobody work and i would like to start doing this as a hobby. Does anybody know what type of compressor i can buy to be able to use a sander, primer gun and other common air tools from home. If possible a website and specify the model. I want to get something that will do the job without breaking my pocket

[Len]

If price is the most important part of the purchase then you'll probably want to go to Home Depot and get a 60 gallon, two stage compressor that puts out about 10 to 12 CFM @ 90 PSI that would be the minimum one to buy. If you want a better compressor check out the ones in our store but I'd recommend the 80 gallon Bel Aire 216V so that you have plenty of air for most applications and it will run quietly for a long time with no problems. We also have a 60 gallon Bel Aire that is better than the ones you'll find in a big box store. The 80 gallon compressors are delivered free but the 60 gallon model will have shipping added.


http://autobodystore.net/Merchant2/graphics/00000001/bel218VW.jpg
American IMC Bel Aire Compressor Link (http://autobodystore.net/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=CTGY&Category_Code=C1)

[Roch_Greg]

This topic comes up quite frequently here.

Your compressor is going to have to match (with some to spare) the highest rated air tool (in CFM's) you'll be using.

Intermittent tools (mostly for mechanical work) don't drain a compressor as much as constant use tools like all types of Sanders, Die Grinders, and some paint guns.

The general consensus here (and IMHO) is that the biggest you can afford (to buy, run, and have room to store) is best.

60 gallon tanks with single/dual stage motors
80 gallon tanks with single/dual stage motors

both oiled lubed as opposed to "oil-less". None of the above will run on 110/115/120 volts so you'll need to have wiring in place for 220/230/240

When looking at a compressor the most important spec is "CFM's @ 90" which is where most air tools run. I'm thinking over 13 should be okay.

Most shops I've visited here are using 120 gallon dual stage units. Overkill for most hobby work if you ask me.

Search around the forums, like I said this question gets asked about once a week or two so there should be plenty of info

Greg in Rochester

[barthmonster]

I like the compressors already mentioned a lot. Here is the one I've had my eye on for awhile now. It's $500 and would probably run all the stuff you mentioned...

http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productDetail&productId=134819-48540-K7060HFV&lpage=none

[86camaroman]

my new compressor is a eagle its only a single stage 3cylinder compressor that puts out 18.5cfm at 100psi it will smoke a da my older compressor was a 60gallon as well but was from what my father said 30 years old or close to it had been in the shop since he was there got to the piont where it wouldnt run a da anymore a single stage compressor will work fine for you as long as ita a high output i think mine costed $700 at rural king

[mmooney84]

I bought a 6 hp 60 gallon at home depot for 400 and something and it does everything I need it for. Runs the Da and air grinders fine. After I bought mine at home depot I saw one at walmart the same size sitting by the door in the automotive section for 369. It was campbell Hausfel. If it is just one person using the compressor at a time then thats all you need.

[vinman]

barth i actually bought that unit from the Lowes in Howell on rt9 in July, it started seizing up about a month ago, they said they have had no problems with them before,Chuck offered to deliver a new one and pick up mine at no charge but i opted to upgrade to the Ingersol Rand 60 gal 2 stage instead, cause deep down i didnt want another one stage.......Vinny

[Mooch]

If you have the money buy the big Bel Aire and be done with it. Buy it once and take care of it. Those small compressors work ok but there isn't nothing like having more air than you need. Cost a little over twice as much but will outlast the cheaper ones by a mile. Mooch