***What is it worth?-I'm in the market for a Air Compressor***

[DREDILSKI]

So I've been looking to expand my current tools/equipment that I'll need to work on my 73 and a co-worker mentioned that he is selling his air compressor. I figure over the winter I can use the compressor to help strip the paint/rust off of my car.  I plan on using it mainly to operate air tools but I would like for the compressor to also be able to paint as well. Nothing too large scale as far as the painting goes, just primer or epoxy if I get it media blasted.

I'm looking for opinions from anyone who may be able to tell me if this compressor will meet what I'm looking for it to do. All input is greatly appreciated, just don't want to buy something that I'll end up needing to upgrade later.

Thanks in advance.   

[DREDILSKI]

Here is the compressor:

http://www.searsoutlet.com/d/product_details.jsp?pid=26666&mode=seeAll

[nvrbdn]

that one can do ok for most air tool jobs. i bought a similar one for the kid to use doing roofing and he was able to run 2 nail/ staple guns at the same time with no problem. they just tend to run more while in use than the larger capacity compressors.

[Troy]

It is probably a bit small. All that means is that you'll need to take more frequent and longer breaks - but mostly during the "clean up" part. Nail guns, staplers, and they like take almost no air so they can be run off a "pancake" compressor. Air ratchets, drills, hammers, chisels, etc. are harder on the compressor but generally aren't used non-stop. Air sanders and most rotary tools eat up a large volume of air. Sandblasting uses LOTS of air pressure and volume at a near constant rate so most compressors will choke on anything more than a small part. I have an 80 gallon tank with a much bigger motor and it runs every few minutes when I'm doing metal work. Mine is rated as "constant run" so I don't *have to* wait for it to fill back up - but it generates a lot of heat which equates to moisture in the air. Keep your air tools well oiled! When I weld I alternate between doing a small section then grinding it down which keeps the compressor filled and cool. When I'm sanding paint I use a D/A which eats up a lot of air but a lot less than grinding or a normal sander. Again, you can alternate between small jobs to let the compressor keep up.

Painting takes much less air pressure - and generally less volume as well. However, it's much less tolerant of moisture in the lines so you typically want to start with cool, dry air and don't want the motor to run at all while you're painting. A BIG tank is better here as you can only paint until you run out of air. If you are applying primer to small sections of the car at a time it's probably fine. If you want to do a whole car in one sitting it will be a challenge.

Overall, I'm guessing the specs are enough to get some work done. Certainly better than not having a compressor at all! If you can get a good deal on it then it can't hurt. A bigger, badder, better compressor will cost more AND require 220 volts so you have to buy what fits your budget and space - and deal with the flaws as they come.

Lastly, my experience with Craftsman compressors is that they are very loud.

Troy

[DREDILSKI]

Thanks nvrbdn & Troy,
I'm gonna check around and see what the price difference would be for a "bigger, badder, better compressor".

Thanks again,
Dre

[72Charger-SE]

My  worth...

I had a dual 110/220v Puma compressor but was not able to efficiently run air tools.  They would run but I had to let the tank fill up and spent a lot of time waiting for the compressor.  As an example, cutting the sheet metal on the quarter panels took over thirty minutes with the wait and cut and wait and cut process.  IF you have capability of 220v in your shop I highly recommend utilizing it.  With that said, if not, you do what you can with what you have. 

Personally I learned that CFM and PSI are a very important. Pay very close attention to the CFM at XX PSI required on the tool you wish to use. 

I ended up upgrading to this one (found it on Craigslist for 1/2 of what I paid for the Puma).

Now I am able to run two or three air tools at the same time and have 12CFM and 90PSI.

Again, just what my experience was...

[375instroke]

Oil free runs hotter, letting more water condense when coming out.

[twodko]

Dre, I have that exact compressor and it easily does all that you plan to use it for. It's fine for one pneumatic tool/spray at a time. It will cycle more though. I bought mine a few years back and it's just 110v. If Sears offers the same in 220v buy it.

375instroke is right about running warmer and condensation. I drain mine every other time I use it.

[duanesterrr]

My dad has that compressor and I can't wait for him to get rid of it.  It is noisy as all hell and leaks like crazy.  I think we are on our second or third PRV.

Just my  but save up and get a recip 220v compressor.  The oilless ones are only good for light duty and a DA/High speed grinder is NOT light duty.

To answer your question its worth $100-$150 imo.

[375instroke]

Forgot about that.  Oilless, at least the ones I've experienced, are much louder.