shadyraven

I'm thinking my next round of upgrades will fall into the realm of air tools. On this subject I know very little, other than compressed air, when mated with a quality impact wrench and socket driver, can reduce many DIY projects down to minutes rather than hours.

So with that in mind, any suggestions on what I should consider getting? Two things I would like to get are an impact wrench and the socket driver. But what about the air compressor itself? Does anyone have any thoughts on how big a tank I need for automotive work, likewise, gas or electric and how much power does the compressor need?

Many thanks.

Audi4orce

pay a little more upfront or keep replacing air tools.
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/13510/mvc-006s.2.jpg">
Cheap compressor is the way to go, make sure it has a regulator valve/gauge.
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/13510/dscf0003.jpg">
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/13510/dscf0004.1.jpg">
Not having to pick up a lug wrench....priceless!!

basel

#1. there are tons of brands of air tools...
ingersol rand, air cat, chicage pneumatic, husky, craftsman....

prices for impact wrentches and air sockets range from $200 to whatever

my advice pick a mid range one for both. i got a poter and cable socket for $70.00 - works fine.

#2. compressors -

start here for info -&gt;

www.aircompressorsdirect.com

my advise - (the model i have and the model recommended in girots)

this compressors runs off 110v on a 30 am dedicated breaker. more than enough power.

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B0000E3HT5/ref=pd_ts_c_th_4/102-0705026-7170516?v=glance&amp;s=hi&amp;n=552662

i say go with the smaller tank(under 6 gallon) 3 hp models (oil-less). i do lots of wood wokring and this size compressor meets all my needs.

unless you plan to do painting or sanding / grinding - i say stick with the smaller protable tanks.

a tank this size will allow you to nail, air clean, inflate tires, run impact wrentches / drivers...

all in all for compressor, lines, tools - should run you about $600 - $650.

well worth the investment imho

German Driver

Cha Ching $$

Bronze

He talks about air tools. In summary,

1) Buy largest compressor you can afford (He says 20 gal. minimum for car work)
2) Don't use oil-less motors, they are loud, they run much hotter, and they don't last long. The cast iron versions are quieter.
3) He found a Campbell Hausfeld for his needs.

Good luck in your search! Buying tools is ALWAYS fun.

German Driver

It came with assorted pnuematic tool set which apparently is complete **** since its all generic and relabled with their logo. Hasn't given me any problems though. I think the total was like just under $400 iirc

FireBirdSC

I only use Snap On stuff. Just great quality tools

lolyf

$trap-on guy gets you though...

Audi4orce

you can bargan with them guys....i didnt pay what originally was asking for

shadyraven

Everyone - thanks for the all the advice!