Air Compressor Rating - 1   2
13 Amp 2-1/2 Horsepower 4 Gallon Oiled Twin Hot Dog Compressor | Makita MAC2400
Makita MAC2400
$460.00 >> $249.00
by Makita

19-3/8 by 18 by 18-3/4 inches; 77 pounds; 1-year warranty
1/4-inch brass Makita universal coupler
Cast-iron pump and roll cage construction
4.2 cfm delivered at 90 psi; low 1,720 rpm extends motor life and lowers noise
13 amp, 2-1/2-horsepower, 4-gallon oiled twin hot dog compressor with handle

found in MAC2400's description: From the Manufacturer
The new MAC2400 - Twin Stack air compressor by Makita is blowing away the competition.3 amps to operate, a lower 1720 RPM rating and a heavy duty Intake Air Filter system like no other, its easy to see how this unit will out last and outperform everyone else. Large automotive style industrial air filter for increased air intake and greater efficiency.
found in MAC2400's reviews:
Decent compressor if you can get one without damage - I researched portable compressors for months before deciding on the MAC2400. It had all the features I wanted oil lube, low rpm, lower decibel rating(quiet) and decent cfm rating.2 cfm @ 90 rating is stretched a little. Even with weight I was quite pleased with the compressor but my buying experience was much less.
My first compressor from Amazon had a broken plastic motor cover which wasn't caused by shipping damage.
I sent it back and Amazon had a replacement back to me in 3-4 days, Quick!, but that compressor also was damaged. The air cleaner housing was thrown on top of the compressor and beat up the control panel and one gauge from bouncing around. I was told to contact Amazon and after a week of waiting on Amazon, I was told that they could not send part (it would void warranty if replaced) and they were not going to send a replacement compressor. I packaged up the second compressor and sent back. I wasn't going to order another brand compressor from Amazon as I didn't want the hassle if damaged again. looking at Ridgid as I really didn't want a Dewalt or the Porter Cable pancake compressor which they carried. I bought a Ridgid model with a higher cfm rating, larger air tanks, wheels, handle and it came out of box without a scratch. After moving it around the house and up the stairs, I don't know how long I would have enjoyed carrying the MAC2400 or any other brand compressor that weighs 70-80lbs.

Overall the MAC2400 looked and sounded like a good compressor for the short time I had it but makes me wonder how well they are built, with so many problems between packaging and broken parts inside cartons not caused by shipping damage on the Mac700's and a few of these. If you are not in a hurry for a compressor and/or don't care about cosmetic condtion out of the box (if damaged) then Amazon is the place to buy with their best price.

15 Amp 1 Horsepower 3 Gallon Oil-Free Pancake Compressor | Thomas T-100SP
Thomas Compressors T-100SP
$469.00
by Thomas Compressors

All-steel/aluminum construction (no plastic shrouds) for optimal durability
Life-Guard Dirt Deflector for cleaner, cooler operations
Quiet-running (75 decibels) for reduced operator fatigue
3.1 cfm @ 100 psi output for supporting up to two nailers simultaneously
1,700 rpm motor keeps up with the fastest nailers

found in T-100SP's description: From the Manufacturer
Designed for continuous, multiple-gun operation, the Thomas Model T-100SP Renegade is a high output, 1-horsepower compressor tough enough for a wide variety of applications.1 cfm at 100 psi, this three-gallon pancake tank compressor supports one to two nail guns simultaneously. High overall tank pressure (135 psi) supports longer hose runs, which means greater air-storage capacity, too. The patented "Life Guard Dirt Deflector" extends compressor life by eliminating dirt and improving cylinder cooling. A slow-turning (1700 rpm) motor reduces noise level and extends compressor life.

FEATURES

  • Only 75 decibels for less operator fatigue
  • Higher CFM Delivery - 135 psi
  • Designed to Run on 15 Amp Circuits
  • Designed to Run on Extension Cords
  • All Steel/Aluminum Construction (No Plastic Shrouds)
  • Built for Contractors in Sheboygan, Wisconsin
  • Rated for Continuous Use (100% Duty Cycle)
  • Ball Bearing Construction Throughout
  • Will Start and Run in Cold Weather
  • Extremely Well Balanced (no walking)
  • Run at Any Angle (will not run tight)
  • Fast, Easy, Low Cost Rebuilds
  • No Maintenance Costs or Downtime
  • No Oil to Add, Change or Spill
  • Life - Guard Dirt Deflector Extends Life

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Air Displacement 6.0 CFM
  • Air Delivery 3.1 CFM @100 PSI
  • Max pressure to 135 PSI
  • Pressure Switch Starts compressor @ 110 PSI
  • Stops compressor @ 135 PSI
  • Motor 1 HP electric motor
  • Capacitor Start
  • Tanks Capacity 3 gallons
  • Shipping Weight 57 lbs.4
  • Low Amp Draw 13
  • Recovery Time 18 seconds
  • Regulator & Gauge Supplied
  • RPMs 1725
  • Decibel Rating 75 dB
  • Finish Guns 3-4
  • Framing Guns 1-2
  • Roofing Guns 1-2

.

/ FP18KIT 18-Gauge Brad Nailer Compressor Combo Kit | Senco PC0947
Senco PC0947
$249.00 >> $197.00
by Senco

1-year warranty on nailer; 90-day warranty on compressor
Includes nailer, 1/4-inch -by-25-foot hose, safety glasses, fittings, oil, 1,200 brad nails, wrenches, and manuals
Compressor: 1 horsepower, 2-1/2 gallons; aluminum cylinder with steel sleeve; 20 pounds
Nailer: adjustable depth of drive, rear exhaust, easy-open latch, no-mar pad, low-load indicator
18-gauge brad nailer and 1-gallon compressor combo kit

found in PC0947's description:

FinishPro 18 FEATURES

  • Extra power — Drives fasteners up to 2" in hard wood applications
  • Belt hook — For convenience
  • Adjustable depth-of-drive
  • Rear exhaust — Keeps oil and dust away from work surface
  • Easy-open latch — For quick and comfortable loading
  • Hardened steel driver — For extended life
  • Full soft grip — For comfort and control
  • Low load indicator — Visible fastener indication
  • No-mar pad — To protect work materials
  • One-year warranty
  • Includes case, fitting, oil, hex wrench and fastener rebate

Projects
Baseboard,cabinets, casebacks, chair rail, finish and trim, furniture frames, furniture trim, mirror and picture frames, trim

FinishPro 18 SPECIFICATIONS

  • Power (in/lbs): 168
  • Height: 9. Operating Pressure:
  • 70—120 psig (4.3 bar)
  • Mode of Operation: Restrictive Trigger

Fastener Types

  • Gauge: 18
  • Fastener Range: 5/8"—2"
  • Finish: Galvanized

What's in the Box
This kit comes complete with the FinishPro 18 brad nailer, a Senco 1/2 hp (1 hp peak), 1-gallon compressor, 1/4-by-25-foot coil hose, safety glasses, fittings, tool oil, variety pack of 1,200 brad nails, tool wrenches and manuals.

Product Description
Finish Pro 18 Combo Kit, Perfect For Woodworkers & Punch List Contractor, Kit Includes, Lightweight Oilless, 1HP Compressor, Finish Pro 18 Brad Nailer 5/8" To 2", Hose, Fittings, Sample Pack Of Brads, Safety Glasses & Bottle Of Oil.
found in PC0947's reviews:
The Professionals Choice -
Need a great combo 18ga brad nailer with a compressor?

Of all the installars tools we send out with our crews, this is the one everyone fights for! Lightweight, no missfires, quiet and compact!

Fits in our largest rolling tool bags along with the other guns and gear we use, like Porter Cable nailers.

We install a 1/4" inline AIR Filter,Regulator,Lubricators fitted to the systems plumbing to assure good clean opperation of our guns before we send them out into the field.

When you own a high profile cabinet and door company like we do, its important to look professional and be quiet in the customers home, taking up as little space as possible to get the job done and get out!

This is one of those tools that helps us accomplish just that! I give this unit a 5 star rating! A great system for lite finish work!

.

15 Amp 2-3/4 Horsepower 4 Gallon Oiled Single Hot Dog Compressor | DeWalt D55155
DeWalt D55155
$676.00 >> $365.00
by DeWalt

23 by 23 by 13-1/2 inches; 68-1/2 pounds; 1-year warranty
Includes DEWALT synthetic compressor oil and pressure regulator
Cylinder constructed of cast iron
4-1/2 cfm delivered at 100 psi; dual soft start valve for cold-weather starts; oil-lubricated pump
15 amp 2-3/4-horsepower 4-gallon oiled twin hot dog compressor with carrying handle

found in D55155's description: com Review
At just a foot high and less than two feet wide out of the carton, this compressor was quite a bit smaller than we expected, so to be fair, we quickly lowered our expectations. The joke was on us, though, because this little powerhouse just doesn’t quit, and we learned that you can’t judge a compressor by its size. Emglo’s half-century in the compressor business is evident in this model, and with a couple of small exceptions (we’ll get into that in a minute), we don’t think anyone could make a finer piece of air power. Now, this may be a plus or a minus in your book, but we liked the fact that the compressor is factory set to power on at 100 psi an+d shut off at 120 psi, and the cycle time was under 15 seconds.) It has air aplenty for two nailers at once, and with that fast recovery, the job will get done in no time.

In balance, this is one of the best compressor’s we’ve seen for the size, power, ruggedness and incredible portability it offers. Here’s to a great pairing of two great toolmakers.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste

Product Description
DeWalt's 2-horsepower, 4-gallon compressor features an oil-lubricated design with a cast-iron cylinder to guarantee job site durability. The new roll-cage design and integrated control panel protects the compressor and the controls from accidental damage. Carrying the compressor is easy, too: the flat design lets the user tote the compressor comfortably like a suitcase. The package comes with the initial fill of DeWalt synthetic air compressor oil.

From the Manufacturer
This 4-gallon hand-carry compressor was designed to meet the tough demands of the job site. The handle is situated to allow the user to carry the compressor with one hand in a natural walking position. The roll cage and integrated instrument panel protect the compressor and instruments from damage. Comes with the initial fill of DeWalt's synthetic air compressor oil.

Includes

  • DeWalt synthetic compressor oil
  • 2 universal quick couplers
  • Regulator

Warranty
This DeWalt high-performance industrial tool comes with a warranty package that includes:
30-day, no-risk satisfaction guarantee
One-year free service contract
One-year warranty

Product Description
2 HP, 4 Gallon, Electric Single Tank Hand Carry Compressor, 4.
found in D55155's reviews:
Paradox - I just pulled the compressor out of the box and was mightly impressed. At this point I was ready to give it the Five Star rating.
Other tools - A lot of folks are rating this unit against nail guns. However, I use it primarily with other air tools including an impact wrench. I was a little worried about the 4 gallon reserve tank handling my impact wrench air volume which is the most common tool I use for odd jobs.

Heavy Duty 15 Gallon Heavy Duty Wheeled Portable Workshop Compressor | DEWALT D55168
Dewalt D55168
$619.00 >> $359.00
by Dewalt

Efficient high pressure motor allows the compressor to be run with an extension cord due to the low amp draw of the compressor
Oil free, maintenance free pump, for convenient use
Efficient high pressure technology allows for longer pump and motor life
5.4 SCFM @ 90 PSI allows for quick compressor recovery time
200 PSI max pressure allows for longer air tool run time

found in D55168's description: From the Manufacturer
The DeWALT D55168 is heavy-duty, 200 PSI, 15 gallon, vertical portable, 120 volt electric, workshop compressor built to stand up to the needs to the most demanding workshop end user.  Ideal for automotive and equipment maintenance, auto restoration, and woodworking applications, the D55168 can easily operate high air consumptions air tools such as: impact wrenches, ratchet wrenches, paint sprayers, and air sanders.  In addition, the D55168 features a typical robust DeWALT design that features a roll cage and metal panel that protect the compressors critical components.
found in D55168's reviews:
Dewalt Compressor D55168 200 psi - The reason I'm giving it a four star rating is that it is not as quiet as I though it was going to be; however, it is much quieter than the old Sears model it replaced.
14.5 Amp 2 Horsepower 4 Gallon Oiled Twin Hot Dog Compressor | Hitachi EC12
Hitachi EC12
$417.29 >> $207.00
by Hitachi

60 pounds; 1-year warranty
Includes DEWALT synthetic compressor oil and pressure regulator
Cylinder constructed of cast iron
4.1 cfm delivered at 90 psi; shut-off valve at line and auto reset
14-1/2 amp 2-horsepower 4-gallon oiled twin hot dog compressor with carrying handle

found in EC12's description: com
Hitachi’s 2-horsepower compressor is one of the hardest-working units on the market.1 cfm of free air at 90 psi--enough to easily run two tools at once. Because of its compact size and trim weight, it’s the perfect compressor for the home do-it-yourselfer, but taking into account its power and portability, contractors will love it, too.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste

From the Manufacturer
This Hitachi air compressor is powered by a 2 hp, 115-volt direct-drive motor and oil lube pump at 3,450 rpm.1 cfm of free air, at 90 psi.

From the Manufacturer
The Hitachi EC12 air compressor is powered by a 2-horsepower, 115-volt direct-drive motor and oil lube pump at 3,450 rpm. It delivers 4 cubic feet per minute of free air at 90 psi.2 cubic feet per minute of free air

Specifications

  • Horsepower: 2
  • Amps: 15
  • Speed: 3,450 rpm
  • Air displacement: 8. Oil lube single piston compressor type, line regulator with gauge, direct drive electric motor, suction cup feet for extra stability, O-ring on draincock makes valve easy to open and close and resists stripping, vertically stacked twin tanks.
    found in EC12's reviews:
    Hitachi quaility and plenty of air. - This compressor has outlasted several other brands. We simply do not run out of air no matter how fast we are working with the Senco SFN40's.

    While I have given this compressor a 5 star rating, there are some things for the engineers (and you!) to think about in the next model: 1. This means you have to hold it out away from your body a bit more than the size of the compressor would promise.

    These are relatively small gigs on a really great compressor.

Job Boss 12 Amp 2-1/2 Horsepower 4.5 Gallon Oiled Wheeled Single Hot Dog Compress | Porter-Cable C3551
Porter-Cable C3551
$641.68 >> $349.99
by Porter-Cable

86 pounds; 2-year limited warranty
Includes compressor, mobility kit, ASME safety valve, manual
Cast-iron construction
12 amps; 150 psi, enough to operate 2 nailers at once; roll bar to protect motor and pump
2-1/2-horsepower 4-1/2-gallon oiled wheeled single hot dog compressor

found in C3551's description: If you're a contractor looking for the right compressor, you've found it.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste

From the Manufacturer
Why lift when you can roll? The Job Boss Compressor comes equipped with a mobility kit for job site portability.5 gallon, Oil-Lube contractor style compressor is packed with features you’ll like. The High-flo air regulator and 2-port removable console are winning combinations for contractors looking for performance and versatility. This compressor is designed with a removable console for maximum mobility and air pressure.5 HP single tank air compressor
  • Oil-lube air compressor for maximum durability
  • 150-PSI tank pressure for longer tool run time,
  • Quieter motor is easy on eardrums
  • 120 V/ 60 hertz/1 phase motor
  • Two pole, 3450-RPM capacitor start induction motor for maximum air delivery
  • Includes 1-year limited warranty on parts and accessories

    SPECIFICATIONS

    • 150-PSI tank
    • 3450-RPM capacitor start induction motor
    • 8 oz. oil capacity


    Product Description
    The Job Boss Compressor comes equipped with a mobility kit for job site portability.5 gallon, Oil-Lube contractor style compressor is packed with features youll like. The High-flow air regulator and 2-port removable console are winning combinations for contractors looking for performance and versatility.5 gallon, mobile, contractor-style, single tank air compressor. 2-port removable console to allow remote air regulation and higher pressure closer to the job site.5 gallon storage capacity air tank supports heavy use of brad nailers, staplers, and finish nailers; moderate use of roofing and framing nailers.5 gallon 150 PSI portable air compressor, Mobility kit, ASME safety valve, and Operator manual.
    found in C3551's reviews:
    Porter Cable lacks quality control - After following the breaking procedure, I noticed that the regulator wouldn't let out any air. (Also, the compressor being so quiet won me over and I was willing to overlook few minor problems in order to keep it. I will receiving a replacement compressor tomorrow and I will post how that worked out, at that point I will be adjusting my rating for the product. My only compliant now is the nasty noise coming from washers vibrating against the pins holding in the wheels. I am changing my rating to 4 stars!.
    Performs to expectations - I specifically wanted an oil lube compressor for durability, and this model fits that requirement. For handyman work or specialty trim nailing, this compressor is ideal. It is well worth the 5 star rating.
    The Wheels! - I have given this unit a 5 star rating and this is my third compressor that I've owned over past years. I'm going to modify my Job Boss with a Jet 3/8"x50' air hose reel bolted right on top of that cover plate and not only eleminate some of the mess with air lines snaking all over the floor but should also keep anyone from standing on that plate. You can find air hose reels in Amazon's Tool Crib listings.
  • 4 Horsepower 4 Gallon Oiled Twin Hot Dog Gas Compressor | DeWalt D55250
    DeWalt D55250
    $1,539.18 >> $692.00
    by DeWalt

    Protected components for maximum durability
    Oil lubricated pump allows for long life
    Low oil shut off provides greater engine protection
    Automatic idle control for reduced fuel consumption
    4 HP Honda GX gas engine provides proven reliability and durability

    found in D55250's description: Product Description
    4 HP, 4 Gallon, Gas Twin Stack Compressor, High Volume Air Output 4.5 CFM @ 100 PSI, Portable Air Power Honda 4 HP Gas, Automatic Throttle Idle Control, Direct Drive Pump For Improved Portability, Oil Lubricated Improved Compressor Life.
    found in D55250's reviews:
    Incredible cfm for weight! - I bought this compressor for use in heavy commercial construction. It is more portable than the wheelbarrow compressors and can be put in the back of a pickup truck (unit is no feather weight though --- about 70 lbs!) This compressor has the best of all features--- reliable Honda engine, reliable Emglo compressor, overbuilt protective frame and quality gauges and quick connects make this an outstanding compressor. Most compressors capable of running two frame nailers draw enough power that it will constantly trip the the breaker on a temporary service pole unless run on 240 volts. With the gasoline compressor, all you have to do is make sure it has fuel and start it up! No extension cords and no more tripped breakers! We have used this compressor to run two paslode frame nailers shooting down 5/8" plywood nailed every 3" around the perimeter (120 mph rating) and this little guy could amazingly keep up! The compressor isn't louder than the DeWalt electric counterpart when running and the Honda engine means it will run for many years to come. Go buy a lighter,less expensive compressor for the finish guns. This machine is meant to turn out a much more substantial amount of air!

    The only downside to this compressor is the price and its weight. That is a lot of money to shell over for a machine that does nothing more than compress air! But, then again, would you really be reading this if all you needed was an average duty Lowe's variety compressor? And if you have a pickup, leave the unit in the back and let it run. compressor up. It seems like they could have trimmed a few more pounds off the compressor and a few more dollars!

    If you have any questions, e-mail me (Azul005@aol.

    15 Amp 3.5 Horsepower 25-Gallon Oil-Free Wheeled Vertical Compressor | Porter-Cable CPFC2TV3525VP
    Porter-Cable CPFC2TV3525VP
    $707.47 >> $359.96
    by Porter-Cable

    5-year limited warranty
    Provides 5.6 scfm at 40 psi and 5.1 scfm at 90 psi
    High-flow regulator for more efficient operation of pneumatic tools
    Tank pressure is maintained between 145 and 175 psi for more usable air
    High-pressure technology provides the equivalent of a 60-gallon air supply

    found in CPFC2TV3525VP's description: From the Manufacturer
    This 25-gallon vertical air compressor is a real performer with a high-pressure design that allows more usable air to be stored in the tank. It's like being able to fit 60-gallons of air in a 25-gallon tank, giving you a longer time between refills, you'll get more done. A higher flow regulator starts the pump at 145 psi and stops it at 175 psi for more pressure and airflow. Includes compressor with high-flow, high-pressure regulator and gauge, 1/4-inch quick coupler, and operator's manual.6 HP Running
  • 175 PSI - 60 gallon equivalent tank size as compared to conventional 125 PSI model
  • 82 Dba
  • High-FloSM air regulator (145 PSI start and 175 PSI stop pressure switch) and High-FloSM quick connect coupler
  • Provides the highest level of moderate-to-heavy duty, tool operation in its class
  • Direct-drive, twin cylinder, oil free design for duability and no maintenance
  • 120 Volt high-torque, capacitor start induction motor for reliable starting
  • Longer life and quieter operation with "4 Pole" 1725 RPM motor
  • Large air regulated pressure gauge for easy visibility and better accuracy
  • Cushioned handle for comfortable grip
  • Shroud with integrated air intake filter improves cooling and reduces noise
  • Standard Equipment: Compressor, ASME safety valve, air regulator and gauges, 1/4" quick coupler, and operating manual

    SPECIFICATIONS

    • Lubrication: Oil Free
    • Tank Size Gal. PSI: 175
    • SCFM Air Delivery @40 PSI: 5.6
    • SCFM Air Delivery @90 PSI: 5.

      Product Description
      25-gallon tank, 15 amps @ 115 volts, 175 PSI, SCFM Air Delivery 5.1 @ 90 PSI, Pressure release, Regulator, 2 gauges, Standard equipment: Compressor, ASME safety valve, air regulator and gauges. 1/4" quick coupler and operating manual, Weighs 170 lbs.
      found in CPFC2TV3525VP's reviews:
      Quiet, portable and powerful - I shopped around for weeks before I decided on this compressor. I wanted a compressor for home that I could run an impact on or a DA sander but I also wanted something portable that I could run a nailer on. I had planned to buy two compressors but this compressor will do both. This compressor is surprisingly quiet and is quite powerful. The two stage allows it to provide the power of a compressor twice it's capacity and uses twice the horsepower. Don't let HP ratings rule your decision, because that rating is typically peak useage, and is not an output rating at all.) So if you're buying one for home or stationary use that will be run a lot, look at buying a 2-stage 240 volt compressor, it will save you money when the electric bill comes. Recovery time is what you should look for and don't expect any compressor to keep quiet for long when you're running a continuous tool like a sander. Something to consider if you're serious about buying this compressor is look at the CPFC2TV3520WK, it's the same compressor with a 20 gallon horizontal tank but it has a four port remote regulator which might be of use or interest to you. I'll post again in the future once I've used the compressor more and know it a little better. I would recommend renting a compressor or borrowing one from someone who has it prior to making your decision if you haven't used them enough to know what you want from one.
  • - Ingersoll Rand Electric Stationary Air Compressor - 3 HP, 10.3 CFM @ 135 PSI, 230 Volt, Model# SS3
    Ingersoll Rand SS3L3
    $559.99 >> $559.99
    by Ingersoll Rand

    Tank Size: 60 gallon vertical
    Max PSI: 135 PSI
    PSI: 11.3 CFM @ 90 PSI; 10.3 CFM @ 135 PSI
    Volts: 230 Volts
    Motor: 3 HP with thermal overload and manual reset - single phase motor

    found in SS3L3's description: Product Description
    Maximum air power! More delivered air (CFM) gives you the power to do the job right and in less time.
    found in SS3L3's reviews:
    A cheap way to get more CFM... but its still cheap. - This air compressor is identical to my Ingersoll Rand SS3L3 compressor that I purchased through Northern Tool in the early summer of 2005. This is the first air compressor that I have ever owned, so it was a learning experience from the start.

    It is recommended that you purchase the IR SS3L3 startup kit as the compressor is delivered to you without any oil in it. When I plugged in the compressor to test it out, I found that the motor continued to run even as the gauge on the tank passed 130 psi.

    I ran the compressor off and on for several months without any major issues. a little bit of die grinding, I rotated the tires on my car using the impact wrench and air ratchet, I used it to blow dust off my work bench and check the air in my tires on a routine basis. I bought the compressor because I have several project cars, and I would like to begin the serious work of restoring them. Recently, I have been looking at plans for a sandblasting cabinet, and I am starting to doubt that this compressor will stand up to the task of sand blasting for extended periods. Things I have learned about the compressor since its purchase that have led me to this conclusion:

    1. (I swap between my compressor and my dryer on the only 230V outlet in my house). This borderline false advertising is similar to peak and RMS power ratings in audio amplifiers, though it is fairly standard operating procedure to rate motors in this fashion. Though it is quieter than a direct drive unit like the 30 gallon compressors sold at most hardware stores, 3450 RPM is still quite fast. With the pulley ratios, the compressor crank spins at 1200 RPM. Heavier duty systems might have the AC motor running at 1200-1750 RPM with the compressor running at ~700 RPM or less, resulting in a much quieter setup. If I could do it over, I would consider a slower, beefier unit with a true power rating that runs at a slower, more quiet speed. There is apparently no available rebuild kit for the compressor itself, according to the local IR dealer, though they do sell gaskets and the oiling kit. It is a two cylinder, single stage compressor. The "valves" in the head are what I believe are called "reed valves", which are simply spring loaded "fingers" that cover holes in the cylinder head, and they move with the blowing/sucking of air as the pistons move in the cylinders (no mechanical actuation of the valves). The compressor can run fairly hot, especially when pressurizing the tank from zero pressure. I would like to add an intercooler in line to the tank as the compressed air is quite hot, and I think the compressor itself could use some more cooling. I bought some copper to fab up a larger heat sink for the compressor housing, though I haven't made it yet. The flywheel on the compressor is designed to move air over the unit, but I still think the design needs improvement. This makes me want to install a condensor between the compressor and tank). Copper tubing is used to route compressed air from the compressor to the tank, and I think some improvements could be made there, as well. One could remove the compressor to change the oil, but a better soultion would be to insert a ball valve in the oil drain plug for easy draining.

    IR sells the SS5L5, which uses the same 60 gallon tank, but a 5 HP split phase 3450 RPM motor running a different two piston single stage compressor.

    My biggest complaints are the use of the split phase motor, the relatively cheap design of the compressor (aluminum rods and lack of rod bearings), the flimsy pressure switch, and the cheap fittings used all over the machine. I will continue to use this unit for some time, but I am already considering either building my own low RPM, true 4-5 HP air compressor from various parts suppliers, or just purchasing a new one from a company like Eaton Compressor. Like houses, I think good advice for someone looking to buy an air compressor is "buy the most you can afford". I for one like the idea of a compressor running at a quiet 750 RPM at a mere 73 dBa, as opposed to my high revving 1200 RPM SS3L3. Meanwhile, my criticisms of this unit are based on what I'd like to see in a compressor, that is all.

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