I am thinking of getting an air compressor for the garage. I dont do a lot of work on cars but would like to start becoming more involved.

Thanks

 

.....and you want what advise?
air compressors a sized based upon flow rates based upn speci psi for specfic tools....

 

Sorry, was just looking for some advice on size. I want more than just filling up tires.

 

My suggestion....
Spend the $$ on a good set of ratchets /sockets...and if you ever progress to needing/wanting airtools, you will have a good foundation....unless you do body work...not a lot of use for airtools as a diy helper unless you have the basics.
When uou say more involved...have you gotten your feet wet so to speak? Learn first, then get all the basic tools, then finely get airtools to speed you up when good.....

 

My dad has a commercial size compressor for working on the farm for removing tractor duals and working on the combine and other things there, it has more pressure and more air compacity than any small one that can be bought at Sears or somewhere like that....He also has the wrenches and impacts to help him with the work....A good set of tools will make a wonder of a difference also.

 

Thanks for the input. You make a good point. I am just now starting to do some mods. The hard part that I need to get past is being nervous I am going to @%#$@% something up. That is what holds me back most of the time.

Thanks again for your time.

 

Where to start?

You really need to be able to see into the future. What would you like to be able to do some day? Sand blast some parts? Bodywork? Or just remove stubborn nuts, and wheels?

As a rule, you can't have enough compressor. Compressors come in several flavors. The most common ore air cooled, (oil less), and intercooled, oil lubed. Most of the smaller (<5hp, and or 30 gal tanks or less) are air cooled, and have no oil. They are louder, and are prone to seizing during extended use. Advantage is they usually run on 120V and are sort of portable. Disavantages are that you have to wait for the compressor to catch up if you are using a tool that requires a lot of air. (die grinder, DA sander, sand blaster, paint guns)

The small pancake type (air cooled) are usually used for construction. They don't have any capacity to run big tools. They are for nailers, or inflation of things. (tires, *****, not beds)

A good start would be something like a 3.5Hp 25gal tank air cooled one from Sears. It will do most things that you want. You can probably find them on sale for <$300.

If you are going to use it more, then step up to a 2 stage, intercooled oil lubed compressor. I've got a 7.5Hp, 80 gal Ingersoll Rand that's rated at about 20 SCFM. I got it on sale for $1300... But I've got a lift and do some bodywork...