Since I'm spending money... what air compressor and tools to buy?

[GDawg]

I'm not a pro but would like some air tools and a compressor. Anyone got some suggestions while I still have a buck or two in my wallet?

 

[twogts4us]

I'm happy with my Craftsman 15 gal compressor. Their reputation was the main reason - I can always take it back to Sears for an exchange. They are committed to customer satisfaction.
I got their air wrench and impact wrench as well.
I didn't think I'd use these things very much, but I'm surpising myself - they make any job so much easier. Plus having compressed air to clean the engine bay or anywhere else in the garage is a plus.
Oh, and I also bought their pressure washer gimmick.

 

[tomustang]

I got a husky AC with some IR and generic tools. they work great.

 

[damacman]

For compressors to use in the typical home garage, it's hard to beat the Craftsman 33 gallon units. For air tools, I'm a pure Snap-On kinda' guy . . .

 

[bdcardinal]

dont have an air compressor, but i have 1/2 and a 3/8 impact guns. they are both MATCO. the 1/2 gun is a composite body, whisper quiet and has 1000ft-lbs of torque. the 3/8 gun is pretty powerful too, although not as quiet as the 1/2 gun. they were both pretty expensive though.

 

[MyEarsHurt]

Im getting a 3/8 gun this weekend, I think I'm gonna go craftsman, cause I cant afford snap on or matco.

 

[madmatt]

Does Craftsmans warranty cover their air tools as well?

 

[clarkjr]

Craftsman 33 gal has been working for me over the last 12 years. It is an old style that you have to change the oil in, which I like, as opposed to the oilless ones. Air gun, air wrench, grinder/cut-off wheel are necessary.

 

[Kilgore Trout]

Craftsman's lifetime replacement warranty does not cover anything with a motor or a battery.

 

[BooWFO]

IMO get a compressor bigger than what you think you need. I don't like the oilless ones seen too many burn up on small jobs. In compressor's bigger is better. I like the Husky's Home depot sells, decent quality decent price point. For air tools a 1/2 impact and 3/8's ratchet will handle most things throw a air hammer in and maybe a die grinder for body stuff. Have had and used several brands. Snap-on and Mac are my favorites, however for the average home user price point and service may be lacking. The campbell hausfields I've had mixed results (if they don't break the first time they usual last) the Husky's seem to last and are very affordable.
You didn't say but hopefully you have 220 ran in your work area if so get a big compressor on 220.

 

[closer9]

I'll just throw out another. I've got a Devilbiss 60gal 6HP. The best purchase I've made. Lowe's used to carry Devilbiss compressors and tools, now I don't think they have either. I love this thing though. There's very little I can't do... Plus it was $300. Less than many half it's size. I've got a blow gun, chuck, 3/8" ratchets, 3/8" impact, 6" orbital sander, cutoff wheel, die grinder, mini die grinder (air powered Dremel) and a blasting cabinet... Most of my tools are also Devilbiss, and all work great... Just check the oil level in your compressor often (if it's an oiler), and keep your tools cleaned and oiled...

and yes, make sure you have more flow than you will need, because you eventually want/need it.

 

[Cobra Jay]

I've had a Craftsman Two satge 175psi compressor for the last 5 years and havn't had as bit of trouble with it. I also own all Craftsman air tools and again zero truoble.

Just a little FYI for you guys that own or are looking at tools. Husky and Craftsman are made by the same people.

 

[tomustang]

Just a little FYI for you guys that own or are looking at tools. Husky and Craftsman are made by the same people.

that would be somewhere in korea or china

 

[Cobra Jay]

that would be somewhere in korea or china

And your point is?

 

[tomustang]

 

[Pearl02]

For compressors to use in the typical home garage, it's hard to beat the Craftsman 33 gallon units. For air tools, I'm a pure Snap-On kinda' guy . . .

Sounds like the one I have. It's a vertical unit. My advice is to get a decent impact gun. You should but one with atleast 400 pounds. You'll also want a compressor the flows over 6cfm's at 90 pounds. I believe mine flows a 6.4 at 90psi and 8.6 at 40 psi. Also be prepared the buy a mixture of impact sockets. 1/2 and 3/8's Metric and standard, deep and shallow sockets, extentions and swivels, air wond and tire inflator. It can get expensive. Just decide what you'll need to get started. Pearl02.

 

[Gearbanger 101]

You'll never go wrong with Ingersoll Rand air tools. Mac, Snap-On and Craftsmen tools are alright, but for the absolute highest quality set-up, stick with the best! http://www.irtools.com/

 

[damacman]

Show me a better drill than a Snap-On PDR-5A . . .

 

[StangPro]

And your point is?

That we don't drive ricers, so why work with them. USA all the way.

 

[tomustang]

IR came out of jerzey, nuff said.