compressor size

[white87306]

Is a 2hp motor with a 6 gallon tank enough compressor to run an impact or air ratchet? I'm not going to do too much with it just working on my car in my garage.

[FE_rex]

Yes, You will have to have some patience if you work fast. Don't even think about a die grinder, cut-off tool or sandblaster.

[white87306]

would those tools require more tank, or more motor, or both?

[Timebomb]

If I was shopping for one I'd get a 5hp with a 30 gallon tank. Sears had them on sale last time I looked for like $279 or something. With a 5hp and 30 gallon you should be able to run anything you'd need.

[white87306]

Thanks, Brent I still want to talk you about that window. I just checked Harbor freights' web site. They have a 4.5 HP 29 gal. vertical compressor for $199.99.

[Neighbors]

Robert,

When shopping, compare SCFM ratings at both 40 and 90 psi, and opt for the greater (higher) number if the price is the same.

If you plan to do bodywork, and run a DA or air file, get the biggest tank possible, as these two tools are air hogs. Most pneumatic tools are designeed to be run at 90psi, FWIW...

If you have the capitol, I'd suggest a stand-up 60 gallon unit with 5-6.5hp motor and a single stage compressor. These have proven to be quite good for Krail and another friend of mine. They got there's at Sam's for $479, I believe...

If you sandblast something big, you're going to need a lot of air...no if, ands, or buts...Seams and such for t-boxes can be handled with a 20-30 gallon unit; you just get more breaks :)

One thing to avoid is the use of small airline. Pressure drop over a 50' hose is considerable, and related the line size. Use 3/8" hose or bigger whever you can to reduce wasted energy...

...brought to you by the old man's club of PMFR...

[white87306]

as always a wealth of knowledge.

PS. the creaking noise is still there:confused:

[maveRick]

Robert,


What Chris said (size really 'does' matter). If I had it to do over, I'd get the stand up version as well (wanna buy my small one?). :D


Having an air-compressor is nice. I bought all the goodie tools to go with it (impact, grinder, sander, etc.,) only to be disappointed in the performance.

IMHO, I'd spend the money on 110V tools *anytime* over air (side grinder, sawzall, impact, etc). The torque you can get outta lectrisity is, generally speaking, way greater than you can get out of air.


Just my personal experience and a heads up on the tools you're gonna wanna buy to go with your compressor.

[white87306]

does anybody make an electric ratchet (like an air ratchet)?

[Blue91]

Rick, my air impact has mucho more tq than does my elec impact. My air die grinder has much more power than does my dremel.

:p :blue: :D

[CobraRanger302]

DO NOT get a smaller one...jus spend the extra money & get a "stocky" compressor...i have one of those pancake ones & you cant port shit with it...u can just break a bolt loose & thats it...i had a bigger one...but it kicked the circiut breaker off all the time

[Forrest]

psssst... dual stage compressor

:D