Shopping for air compressor

[HarleyTC95]

My craftsman is 7 years old and works like new. Just very LOUD.

[xtremekustomz]

You can use it with an extension cord as long as it is a heavy duty one (12 ga or better) The compressors pull alot of amperage and you can strain the motor and burn it up or burn the extension cord up. That 10 ga wire coming out of the compressor is for a reason.

[JohnLINY]

I know the Home Depot by me is selling off their DeWalt air compressors at great prices. They are made by Emglo (used to be blue) and oil lubed. I have had an Emglo compressor for like 7 years never a problem. Used to use it for running framing and roofing nailers all day in the summer heat never quit. Taken care of they will last for ever. Easy to move around. Depending on what you want to use them for (CFM) they are a great price.
They have a 2hp 4 gallon portable compressor with two finish nail guns for $199. If you don't want the nail guns you could sell them on ebay for $50 easy making it an even better deal.

[kenpoman1]

Get a makita hotdog, very quiet, small and powerful, oil filled motor, will last a long time 150$ on amazon. I love mine, very well built.

[4AudiQ]

Have you checked out Harbor Freight Tools?

[03silvaevo]

Thanks for all the suggestions. I'll have to check out Harbor Freight as well.

[BJ007]

Go ahead and pass on Harbor Freight for the compressor. If it has buttons or switches, needs to be accurate or last a long time, then I recommend against HF. Sandpaper, gloves, paintbrushes, fittings, drill bits, etc. are great items to buy there.

[kaval]

here is an excellent writeup my friend did on shopping for air tools and compressors

soak it up like a sponge!
Air Compressors and Tools 101 - ClubEL.ca :: Canada's EL and CSX Automotive Community

[kapinnn]

Not trying to hijack the thread but what is a good unit for detailing only? I run a part-time mobile detailing business. I only have the back of an SUV as storage area, so it has to be small if possible. I will NOT be using it for tools or anything else besides getting water out of wheels, crevices, door handles, engine bay, and interior. Any suggestions?

[Emzilla]

I would check out ingersoll rand's line Industrial and Portable Air Compressors, Compressor Parts, Compressor - Ingersoll Rand Air Solutions

[Peco]

I have a SanBorn 3HP 20 gallon, but they sold out to Ingersoll Rand. This is from the late 80's early 90's and work great. My is oil, belt driven.