so im just snoopin around for a good air compressor hoping to get some good advice here. well im looking for somthing that can do basic automotive repairs at home using an impact wrench and air ratchet most of the times, might use it for home repair also for example nailing, etc. just wondering what advice you can give me for example 3.5 hp and 30 gallons and shuch, what would be a good setup at home. i also want to get a sand blaster from harbor freight and i know i have to run an air compressor with it, i need a compressor compatible with that also.

 

For light duty like impact wrenching a 3-5hp 30 gal will do fine. But I wouldn't call a sandblaster light duty. More like mid duty. 5hp should still do the trick.

Get yourself some spare fuses. I tend to over-use my compressors and end up blowing a fuse every so often.

 

The standard upright 6/60 will work for about anything. Just dont go too small as its a waste of money when you find that it cant keep up with what you are doing.

 

Once you decide ABOUT what you want, check craigslist because you can find them in new condition for 1/4 the price...

 

DO NOT BUY ANY COMPRESSOR AT HARBORFRIGHT,stick with name brands like hunsky/campbell hausfeld/craftsmen/and dewalt...i just bought a sandblaster from there i love it it is the 19oz one its awesome and works perfect i have a 2Hp 20 gallon campbell hausfeld workhourse and it keeps me going i blast around 100psi or so lol it melts the grease and paint away

 

Ive been using a Ingersoll Rand 24Gallon Vertical for almost a year, 5.7 CFM @ 90 PSI and max PSI 135

No complaints on not having enough air, We use it for alot of stuff too working on our cars, painting, using air sander etc. I dont know what Id do without it best buy from a Pawnshop ever!

 

Have had good experiences with american made electrical tools/motors
and American made metal. Sometimes the Chinese look-alikes fail.-Bob

 

Me and my Grandfather both have the 60gal upright Husky compressors from Home depot, they work really good don't take up much room. Just set it up in the garage and kept it on the wood crate to try and put down the vibrations from when it runs.

 

yea so for all around automotive duties at home and to use with the sandblaster, from your great experinces i think im going to start hunting down an up right 30 gallon or so 5hp+ for my home duties. thanks guys

 

buy the biggest you can afford