I have been looking around lately at new tools to buy and areas to explore as hobbies. I realize many things I want to buy have a similar requirement - the need for an air compressor. I have done some searching around on the web about the requirements of different tools as it relates to a compressors CFM and PSI but cannot bring myself to go through with a purchase without getting your (board members) highly valued opinions. Craigslist is in no short supply of people selling compressors but I need to make a purchase that suits the 'Hobbies' I wish to undertake. Heres what I am looking to do mainly. -Sandblast -Paint -Anything requiring an air compressor that seems as if I could tackle it on my own. Here are some in my area I am looking into. My budget is approx. $500 http://desmoines.craigslist.org/tls/2325599369.html http://desmoines.craigslist.org/tls/2301454502.html http://desmoines.craigslist.org/tls/2321774434.html Do you think buying a used one is practical? Or stick with brand new and if so, where can I buy one within my budget that can accomplish my goal?
Also, any recomendations on a decent sandblaster and what type of media to use for small car parts/engine parts?
I have this one http://www.harborfreight.com/35-hp-60-gallon-130-psi-compressor-3848.html and it suits my needs. Think its a good choice for a hobby compressor that doesn't run every day.
If I am not mistaken that one is both cheaper and rated better than the one in my first link which is quite similar...Is that so? Even though it is only 3.5 hp it will work well enough for my plans?
I've used it for spray painting and sand blasting and it was fine for both. Its also a lot quieter than I expected which is important if you're working near it. Check the capacity required for the tool you will be using and be aware that the capacity of compressors is often (always?) overstated in their specs.
tank size and CFM rating is more important than hp for sandblasting. Sandblasting and D/A sanders are about the biggest thing a hobbyist will use but both are air hogs. My sandblaster could empty the 80 gal tank in just a few minutes of continuous use. I can't imagine trying to do that with anything smaller than a 60gal tank and 10CFM min
Always buy a compressor that is rated at twice the cfm that you need and with a tank that is twice the size you think you will need. Impact tools, air grinders and sanders use a lot of air but media blasters will use more. Get one that uses 220V because they are more efficient and recover quicker. Typically a two stage compressor is better than a two cylinder single stage unit. Upright tanks take up less space and should be fastened to a platform that is bolted to the floor. 16 - 20 cfm at 90 psi would be the minimum for any use with ait tools and sand blaster.
I have a 76 2 dr I dismantled before I deployed to afghanistan. Addressing some rust issues and just trying to get into making my beauty shine to the best of my abilities and if I am good enough - doing other projects in future. Not interested in making money off it, just toys for me I am on the S-SW side of Des Moines. Thank you everyone for your input thus far
Hey Hey fellow Iowans--ditto on the last about if need help etc from me as well. Though Im a bit further away. Never the less, I am looking to do the same about an air compressor so let us know what you decided to go with. Where do the Craftsman's fit in all this these days?
my new compressor hi, i picked up 2 compressors, one i am converting to a CNG compressor for my truck and the other one i am using for a general kick ass compressor. it has a 18 hp HATZ diesel motor and 4 stage compressor, it runs 15 cfm at 3500 psi remove paint anybody my normal compressor is a 7hp 60gal compressor, works for most everything. sand blasting, shop tools, etc.
