So I've been stocking up on some new tools, and I'm going to be purchasing an impact wrench and a few other air tools soon. What size compressor should I be looking at to run? I'll only be doing light maintenance. How many HP/gallon tank should I get?

 

I got a craftsman 27 gal compressor. It works good, I just wish it was bigger since it kicks on alot. I do use it for more than light maint. Usually quite a bit of heavy duty stuff. They are usually about $299. Sometimes they go on sale for $249. I believe they are 1/3 hp

 

Husky has a campbel hausfeld (it just says husky on it), 33 gallon that uses oil (good thing) and puts out about 6.5CFM which will run almost any tool you want for a good bit. Its like 350 bucks or so.

 

I was hoping to find something under $150....any suggestions

 

If you want the best bang for your buck. Look on Craigslist for a 60gal or 80gal used unit.

I run a 60gal dual piston Husky that I bought from Home Depot for $399. If you plan to use your tools a lot, then go big.

 

I've got the same one Scotty has. If you ever paint 60gal is the way to go, not to mention it cycles much less. Mine is 220v though, which is better than 110v.

But I second looking at CL. There are usually quite a few available there at good prices.

 

The bigger the better.

A 240v compressor is 2-phase and will use less current during normal operation than any 120v compressor.

A stand-up tank is better than a lay-down tank because you can drain moisture from it faster, and because the air outlet on the stand-up is higher ( = less moisture in the lines).

The size of your air fittings determines how well your air tools perform. I run a hose directly off the ball-valve on the tank (no quick-couplers) and then I run supersize air fittings on my air tools. It's like putting a bigger exhaust on your truck, it makes a big difference in flow/power output.