Opinions sought on compressor to power impact wrench
 

I am looking to buy either of the following two compressors. I need it to power my impact wrench and for other chores around the house - my current 1.5 hp 3 gal Craftsman one can't do the job. Any and all input is appreciated:

Ingersoll Rand - http://www.everyaircompressor.com/Ingersoll-Rand-DD2T2-IRC1000.html#ProdDetails

Makita - http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_6970_200327861_200327861

Note that although the IR has a lower CFM at 90 psi, it is rated at 100% duty cycle.

I am open to suggestions for other compressors too.

Thanks,

HS

I don't think either will be a significant improvement on what you have. They are nice roofing compressors though. If you are going to do home tasks, and I assume you mean, some sanding, some spraying, some wrenching, etc. I would recommend one with reserve capacity. At least 60 gallons. More horsepower and 2 stage lead to quicker recovery, but reserve capacity will help more for these tasks.

The Makita is a lot more compressor for the money.

Much higher CFM, and a slightly larger tank. Personally, I prefer a much larger tank, but the Makita looks like a very nice unit. And of course Makita has an excellent reputation for quality.

I have a Craftsman 5hp with a 33 gallon horizontal tank. I needed very high CFM for sandblasting. It was under $300 -- I've had it for 6-7 years, and couldn't be more happy with it. I'm sure the Makita is a higher quality unit, and may last longer, but it just wouldn't have enough capacity for my needs.

To elaborate further, there are two factors in compressors, Capacity and recovery. Tools that have peak demands like air nailers need good recovery. Tools that use air continuously need capacity such as spray guns, sanders, etc.

A good trick for home shops is to have a portable compressor, but also have a large storage tank fixed mounted in the shop. You connect the two with a quick-connect line so you have the option of either system. I use an 80 gal hung from the ceiling as the storage unit and have shop line drops coming from it. Works great and lets you have instant 125 psi when needed w/o having to start a compressor..just use a check valve between the two.

Arthur,

I was going to suggest an auxiliary tank as an addition the Makita unit. Even an adapted old 5 lb propane tank from a gas grill would give a good 120% increase over the current tank -- and they can be had for free everywhere because of the required update in the valves has made the older ones obsolite.

I've always thought a 50lb propane tank would make a great addition to my shop -- I just haven't seen one that's been scrapped. What did you use for your tank?

jp

JP

I used a tank I got from a friend who had a good sized unit that had a bad compressor. So I scoffed the tank.
....but before that, I used a 100 lb propane tank , but the problem I had with that was it took a year to get the stink out of it..they use a low LP detector chemical that smells like rotten eggs and it inpregnates the tank.
It did clear up and I did like the tank B/C it was tall and slim, so it takes little floor space..although I hung it between 2 ceiling joice in the Barn. Good fit with 2 straps.
I had to tap a hole for the drain, which was no problem.

I also made one for a constuction friend out of a portable aux air tank and he would use it if they had a few guys on a roof ..it gave them that little extra volume need for more guns..they just plugged it in-line from their portable Emglo unit and then ran a mainfold off the tank...was slick and many of the other guys copied the idea....

Ha, Arthur MY turn to lecture.
When LPG is made ( refined from crudeoil or natural gas, it is odourless.
The law states, that you must be able to detect the presence of propane, when there is as little as 0.5 % propane present, ( even though the flammability limit is 2.4 % - 9.5 %, mixed with air).
To satisfy this requirement, a chemical called Ethyl Mercaptane is added to propane.
It has a tendency to " settle out " in the bottom of the tank, and that is the reason why you tend to smell it, as the content of the tank gets low.
As far as the tank itself, being used as a storage tank for compressed air,....no problem.
Just be sure to remove the valve, fill it with water, let it sit for a while, dump the water out, let it dry ( you could add a little alcohol, not the drinkable kind ) and use it as an airtank.
From a pressure standpoint, in propane service these tanks have a pressure reliefvalve set at 375 psi, so that lowly 150 psi shopair is no problem.
Enough of this, or I'll have to charge you for any more information. :D

You have not added any info I did not know.

AD,

Thanks for the reply.

jp

Just curious ...

How about getting a cordless impact wrench. I have a dewalt 1/2 18V that delivers 300 ft/lbs.

No doublt it is bigger that a air impact wrench, but it is portable and no long hoses to lug.

So far, I am pleased with it.

What he said :P