Forget the "horsepower" of an air compressor. It is a worthless measurement
of compressor output and Sears and others outright misrepresent the output
of their compressors using this number. All that matters is CFM and PSI
requirements for the tools you want to run, and also tank capacity.

Find out what the air requirements are for your most air hungry tool, under
continous use, and buy a compressor with a LARGER air pumping capacity than
that tool will require.

It's is simple as that. Really. And do not get an oil free compressor. They
are noisy and wear out much faster than oil lubricated compressors. Just
check the oil every now and then.

With only a 120V outlet at the hangar, you might be limited on the tools you
can run. Sanders, grinders, HVLP guns need a little more juice than most
reasonably priced 120V compressors can offer.


"Eric Ulmer" wrote in message
om...
(Martin Kosina) wrote in message
om...
Hi,

I am thinking about getting a small air compressor for my hangar, any
suggestions what to look for (dry vs wet pump, gal. capacity, CFM
rating, etc.). I expect light, occasional use - tire & strut
inflation, some drilling, fiberglass grinding, small-scale painting
(fairing repair, etc.) and limited use of maybe 2X rivet gun. I am
specifically wondering if any of the smaller "Husky" compressors sold
by Home Crappo would do the job, don't want to spend big $$$ or get
something big I can't easily take home once in a while.

Thanks !

Martin

I put a compressor (sears 3hp, 30gal) in my basement closet and the
pressure wasn't constant enough at the gun to do consistant work after
the long-haul hose run, so I put one of those portable pony tanks
under the bench with a T adapter to provide a pressure buffer/supply
closer to my work when riveting. It keeps the compressor noise down by
leaving it in the closet, but provides a good supply pressure at the
rivet gun. I also use this set-up when I use an extender hose out the
back door to the garage in the summer when I need the airgun for rare
car maintenance. No need to haul the compressor up out of the basement
to the garage now.