Air Compressors

[ijames]

Between about 5 and 20 cfm most compressors have two cylinders, and you can either plumb these in parallel for more flow but lower output pressure (called a single stage, typically 130-140 psi max and really happiest at about 90 psi), or in series so the two compression ratios effectively multiply and you get higher output pressure at lower flow (called a two stage, usually 175 psi max). The direct drive ones are all way noisy. Some run at 3450 rpm and are horrible, others at 1750 and are merely bad . The belt drive units at 750-1200 rpm are much quieter. Grumpy, if yours is a belt drive and everything but the compressor itself is still in good shape (the tank, motor, and controls) you can get a cheap replacement compressor pump for under $140 from Harbor Freight Tools - Quality Tools at the Lowest Prices or a potentially better one (haven't used either so can't really say but I'd go cheap, personally ) from Pressure Washers, Portable Generators, Mowers, Lawn + Garden | Northern Tool + Equipment for about $300. Of course, if it's the motor that's bad those are even easier to replace.

 

[TR Custom Parts]

I bought the Husky Pro from Home Depot 60 gal Upright twin compressor
First big compressor I have bought. Now I finally can run my air tools without waiting for the compressor to catch up $399.00
Nobody had anything close for the price with the big compressor head
Spend the extra money and get HP and Volume to run the tools

Looks nice in the Garage Mahal. LOL Ready to cruise yet?? Seems like spring is never coming to CT this year. Did you get the Vette yet?

 

[TR Custom Parts]

BTW, to stay on topic, I have a single stage 4hp 25 gallon Craftsman compressor and yes, it is loud. Earplugs required.

 

[KevinB]

I have a 60 gallon C H compressor. 6 hp 230 volt. I love it. Not too loud either. Just make sure to get a cast iron pump, not aluminum. The cast irons make ALOT less noise.

 

[darkred87T]

I just got my 26 Gallon Campbell Hausfeld compressor up and running today. It's reasonably quiet and I'm sure it will more than be able to handle the work that I do. I would have liked to have an upright but I couldn't find anything comparable to this unit. However, that Kobalt for $419 looks like a nice air compressor but as stated earlier, you could have warranty problems.

 

[Dabigguy]

If you use your compressors a LOT, check out the Quincy line. They are the top of the line compressors. I pulled a used compressor out of the trash and rebuilt it (with parts I traded Ford parts for).This compressor was manufactored in 1952 and still works like a charm !!!! They have an internal oil pump and some models even have an external oil filter. They are a little expensive, but it will be the last one you ever buy.