I am looking for a new air compressor as my PC pancake bit the big one the other day. I have done some searches in the archives and got some useful information, but am also a little confused. Would love some updated info and input.
I usually work alone, but recently hired two workers so there might be a bigger demand on the output of a compressor. I prefer things on the lighter side (weight) as I am pretty mobil with my jobs. The majority of my work is finish, but will do some framing on additions (am starting a 1200 sq ft addition next week). The smaller 1 hp models are attractive because of the weight, but can’t stand that the 2 or 2.5’s kick on every other minute when framing. Am considering a 4 or 4.5 four gallon. Am considering the DeWalt 55155 but have also read many good comments about the Rol-Air and the Thomas Renegade (they just got a best pick rating from either JLC or FHB).
The confusing part is reading about a class action law suit against many of the mfg’s and also that DeWalt sold the Emglo line.
Any suggestions or recommendations by those more in the know than I would be greatly appreciated.
Brian….Bayview Renovation
Replies
Roll-air, Thomas, or Hitachi.
We always get it right!!!
the third time....
"Almost certain death, small chance of success.... What are we waiting for???"
I've got the Thomas Renegade (T-200ST) and have been pleased with it. Quiet, starts well when cold, and runs fine off a 15 amp circuit. It's not a featherweight (it weighs 66 lbs) but I don't find it difficult to carry. It should run two guns no sweat (I work alone); Thomas is more conservative in their compressor ratings- they rate them at 100psi not 90 like most. Can't vouch for longevity yet; haven't had it long enough. For 3 guns I'd be looking at the Thomas T-2820ST. It's about $100 more than the T-200ST. More output (5.0 cfm vs 4.6 @ 100 psi), even quieter (74 vs 75db), quicker recovery time (9 vs 12 seconds) and doesn't weigh any more. iirc Mongo and Jeff B run the 2820, hopefully they'll chime in.
Edited 5/5/2005 9:00 am ET by jc
I have the Thomas T150
Good compressor, quick recovery, but LOUD
Didn't know that the other Thomas compressors were quieter at the time I bought.
Think I would go with the 2820 if I were to buy one today.
I have the Thomas 2820. Two tanks and two cylinders makes for a nice machine.
What everyone else said. It's great.
Have had it for several years, zero problems, zero complaints, zero maintenance.
I don't find it a problem to lug around.
Fast and infrequent recycle, quieter than the competition, which is good when working indoors.
What about the Porter Gable Pancake. Has anyone tried it. Not sure how much the Thomas runs for. The Porter Gable seems to be very affordable.
Wade
PC/affordable: read >>cheap made in third word POC
We always get it right!!!
the third time....
<!----><!---->
"Almost certain death, small chance of success.... What are we waiting for???"
is that the way you politicly correctly say cheap...
Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming
WOW!!! What a Ride!
Forget the primal scream, just ROAR!!!
Yes it is. Since we got direct deposit my wife has all of my money. So now all I can be is Cheap. Of course I am not to proud to take donations if you like.
Wade
Roll-air or Thomas...
Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming
WOW!!! What a Ride!
Forget the primal scream, just ROAR!!!
I needed a job site compressor about 3-4 years ago. Like you, I move around a lot, so portability was a factor, as was noise.
I ended up with a Thomas Ultra (T 35 or something). It's a 3 gallon, hotdog configuration, oil-less, and amazingly quiet. It is light, and engineered so if the thing tips over in your truck, none of the tubes and controls are harmed.
I have used it virtually everyday, and it has been a dependable workhorse.
It is really meant for running one gun at a time, although we have done fine with two finish guns occasionally. I don't think it is big enough to run two framers efficiently, though.
"I would never die for my beliefs because I might be wrong."
-- Bertrand Russell
I like the Roll-air, although you have to baby it a little starting up in cold weather. In extreem cold I use a bleeder so it runs regularly.
Thomas or Hitach.
-zen
RIDGID
3.25 Peak / 1.8 Running HP, 4.5 Gallon Oil Free Air Compressor.
Model OF45150
http://imagex.homedepot.com/f/248/13340/7d/www.homedepot.com/cmc_upload/HDUS/EN_US/asset/images/eplus/165613_4.jpg
I can't complain, it's not very quiet but it recovers quickly. I use it every day, running one finish gun at a time no problem. I never used it for anything else. Not light, but I can carry it around no problem. It has a little bit of roll cage. I'd probably buy it again. I think it was about $250.
Edited 5/7/2005 9:11 pm ET by dustinf
Edited 5/7/2005 9:14 pm ET by dustinf