Air Compressor Quandry

[ncz]

Hey guys, can anyone give some advice on air compressors? The old Craftsman 5hp 25 gal ain't cutting it. Looking at new compressor and wondered if I could get some real world experiences. I know bigger is better and I have narrowed it to two. Number one is 2 phase 80gal tank with 15 scfm. I know this one should blow the house down, but it just seems too big. The second choice is single stage 60 gal tank and 10.5 scfm(at 90 psi). My needs will be mainly da sander, sandblaster, grinders and want to get an hvlp spraygun. I am adding a bead cabinet(small one) shortly also. I can get the 2 stage, but if the single stage will do the job I can buy some more tools(it is half the price). So help! Will the single stage keep up or do I buy the monster!

[webdawg1]

You might want to check out the Campbell Hausfeld line of compressors at the following url: www.chpower.com

If you have a "Lowes" near you, they usually have a full line of compressors in stock most of the time as well as compressor oil, tools, misc connectors to connect everything...etc...etc.

The old adage about "Bigger is Better" holds true in this case. You did say you intend to do some media blasting down the road (Blast cabinet) and the extra air sure comes in handy when you're working on a large part. You'll understand what I'm talking about when you're just blasting away like a mad man and not waiting for the compressor to catch up to you. A smaller compressor will be trying to catch up all the time...

webdawg1

[ncz]

I hear you man, thats kind of the way I'm leaning. Traded in all my Holiday Inn points for Home Depot cards, so that is where I will buy. Probably all made by Campbell Hausfield anyway. Thanks for the input

[JLPurcell]

For my 2 cents, go with the 2 stage while your buying. With the tools your listing you would be undersize with the single stage 60gal. Another suggestion, I have a 80gal. 2 stage, I ran 1/2" pvc lines around my garage and "T'd" off with one to the center of the ceiling of my garage and placed hose fittings about every 10' and in the center of the ceiling of my garage. I attached the compressor via a rubber line to the wall lines. I love it and I don't have to drag the hose all over the shop.JLP

[beandip]

I have been using all sorts of air tools and also just finished painting the Z and what I am using is a De Vilbiss 5 horse 30 gal. and have not one complaint of running out of air. This is my son in laws unit as mine is smaller and wont do the job. I would buy a verticle model though , takes up much less room . I find that the die grinders and 1/2 '' impact wrenches use the most air. . My 2 cts Gary

[ncz]

Thanks for the inputs, I guess its time to make decision so I can get on with all the messy stuff. See what you guys get me into. Glad the 220 is already installed! Now if the wife doesn't find out about the bead cabinet...