Air Compressor recommendations

[Huskie]

I am in the market for a new air compressor, at first I was only thinking of a small one for tires etc. Maybe I should get one large enouggh to run some tools, nailers, staplers etc. Any recommendations or cost factors to consider, thanks.

[liebs]

I have a Craftsman pancake compressor and it suits my needs fine. The only tool I run off it is a brad/staple gun. I've borrowed a framing gun from a neighbor and it worked fine. Larger items like impact wrenches and paint sprayers may require something bigger. I don't ever plan on using them though.

[delcecchi]

I have a pancake compressor too, and it works nailers and inflates tires just fine. Sprayers, wrenches, etc not so good.

[amateurfishing]

i have a husky (4.5 gal i think) on wheels with telescoping handle, more than i will ever need but will never have a problem, barely enough for air tools (which i never use) awesome for tires, nail guns, & whatever else the wife thinks of

[Farley]

I've heard good things about the Husky air compressors. Home Depot carries them.

[JOHNBIGDOG]

I have has a C-aire compressor, model number A015P024-1115 for 7 years now. I am very happy with its quality and build. Very quiet operation. Start up is good even at 30 below.

I currently have this compressor hooked up to another 20 gallon tank so I could do some sand blasting. I put an electric fan on the compressor and went to town for a few hours. It did pretty well.

On on other note, I used a rapid air system to plumb my compressor to my manifold set up and then up to the ceiling to a hose reel.

[BoxMN]

I am not a mechanic by any means, but having a decent sized air compressor is the best thing I have done for my garage. I have used it a TON for things that a small compressor (which I have also) just would not do. Also have it hooked to hose reel overhead and that is the second best thing in my garage

I prefer oil motors as they are quieter, but my main big one is not and has been working for about 13 years now. I believe it is a Coleman brand, so not what I would call "quality" but good enough. I have blown through the original pressure gauges and regulator, that I think had it been a better quality compressor I would not have had to replace. But it still is ticking fine and gets used a lot!

A few things you can do with a bigger one:

paint sprayer (painted three boats and pontoon sides)

impact wrench (you name it, but a small one won't even do truck tires - makes replacing shocks an easy and pretty quick job)

air hammer (tighten rivets on alum boat)

air riveter (coolest tool, just for the sound )

cutting of things with the little grinder (more handy than you think)

blow out garage when cleaning

everything you can do with a small one, except carry it around...

Good luck!