Air Compressor??

[MLimpert]

I'm looking to replace my small hand me down air compressor as it's tank has finally rusted through and I question how long it will last. I would prefer a smaller vertical unit, and I really want a reciprocating oil filled pump. I don't care for the oil-less units because of noise and durability concerns.



Can anyone recommend a decent compressor for me? I was looking at Sears, but their only vertical unit with a traditional style pump is not rated well and it's pump is made of aluminum. TSC also carries a 60 gallon IR unit with a nice cast iron pump, but it would probably be overkill for my needs at this point. I would like to stay in the $500 price range if possible.

 

[Coalsmoke]

You're correct in looking for a decent oiled unit. Some of the good names that I have direct experience with are Ingersol Rand, Curtis Toledo, and Speedaire. I've had people tell me they like their Eagle compressors, but I haven't run / owned them first hand so i can't say much about them. It comes down to getting what you pay for. Always pay attention to duty cycle, cheaper units will rate themselves at the same level as the serious manufacturers in terms of max output, but will only be able to maintain that output on a 20-40% duty cycle, where a good quality unit will be at a 80-100% duty cycle. I'd rather have 7cfm at 120psi at 100% duty cycle from a smaller Ingersol Rand than a 18cfm offshore import unit that will throw a lung if you try to take it to a 60% duty cycle. My main workhorse is a 30 year old Curtis Toledo, pressurized oil lubricated 2 stage compressor, and it is in fantastic condition still and will produce 20+ cfm at 100% duty cycle for hours on end without a hic-up. My "cheapest" unit is a $250 offshore brand, about 4cfm with twin small tanks and a carry handle, but its portable and has a lifetime warranty, its a great odd job tool, but you have to watch its 40% duty cycle. Those two machines at both ends of the spectrum both have their uses for me, so I guess what I'm trying to say is don't be afraid to get the machine that best suits your needs and usually, you get what you pay for. Happy compressing.

 

[MLimpert]

I got the 3HP IR unit from Tractor Supply. As a bonus, I got a 10% off in the mail the day before I bought it. I'm very pleased so far! It sure is quiet for what it is. It's rated for 100% duty cycle so I think it should last me a lifetime.



Ditto on the Curtis comments Coalsmoke... We have a grande sized 30hp Curtis at work that is truely impessive. I wish one of those would have fit my budget!

 

[Coalsmoke]

Looks like a great unit, nice find.