air compressor advice

[timmbuck2]

Finally moving up with the big boys and getting a 'real' compressor. Not quite ready for a pro level setup, I plan on moving up to the foothills in the next year, so I found a cheap alternative for now...

http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?actio...056&lpage=none

Kobalt
3.7 HP (Peak) 60-Gallon Vertical Stationary Air Compressor
13.4 SCFM @ 40 PSI
11.5 SCFM @ 90 PSI
155 maximum PSI
3.7 running HP
Cast-iron, oil-lubricated, belt-drive pump
Heavy-duty induction motor
3-year limited warranty
Quiet-running 76dB sound level


I know, not top of the line, but pretty good specs for $399. Any advice? Will mainly be used on the restoration of my 40 and typical maintenance on the 80 and the

Honda. (lite air tool use for now, a little sandblasting, etc no painting planned) Let me know what the experts think....thanks.

Timm

 

[-Spike-]

Should work well for you. The specs sound adequate, the only question is how long it will last. I've got no experience with Kobalt nor do I know who manufactures them. From what I understand after talking with a few repair guys, damn near all of the newish consumer-grade compressors are disposable- the parts that will break are not replaceable or not worth replacing. That might be an issue if you planned on using it every day all year, but it will probably last a long time with occasional use.

-Spike

 

[Junk]

My vote is go top level or go used. Sorry, but $400 disposable items don't work for me.

 

[-Spike-]

My vote is go top level or go used. Sorry, but $400 disposable items don't work for me.

Yeah, the used route is how I usually go. It's kinda tough if you don't have some experience though, to know what used equipment is worth buying, and what to pay for it if it is. I'd guess a 'good' new compressor to run upwards of $1800. I happily paid $300 for a ~20-year-old Sanborn 60 gal upright a few months ago.

-Spike

 

[Trollhole]

Ehhh for the occasional user I'd say go with an IR. For around 500 you can get a decent floor model thats 220 volts. SHould last you a good long time with proper maint.

I like having it bolted to the ground. And it's pretty quiet.

This is the one I have.

http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_6970_158284_158284

 

[Cuerno Largo]

I have the 80 gallon version of the Kobalt and it has served me well. No problems thus far. Mine is about 4 years old. Used regularly.