What kind of air compressor do i need?

Question

i looking to do alot of bodywork on a car..i need an air compressor..but lack the space or electrical power to use a vertical electric air compressor..i want to buy a small gas powered dewalt compresssor.. it about 3-4 hp im not sure of the cfm..but is this suitable to use a sander,paint gun,etc..

Answer 1

To answer your question you need to know the CFM (cubic feet per minute) of the compressor which is a measure of volume.

Almost all retail compressors sold today are designed to work at 100-125 psi.

Some tools use a lot of air. The typical sander will use a lot, say 30cfm. Paint guns use a lot less, like 10cfm or less.

If the tank is to small the compresssor will recycle constantly.

If the compressor is to small it won't build up pressure fast enough to operate the tool properly.

Northern tools has a chart in the air compressor section of their on-line catalog that lists tools and their CFM usage

Answer 2

Have a qualified professional electrician wire the compressor you own. It's cheaper and safer than the gas powered unit.

Answer 3

the problem with a small gas powered is the exhaust.  Putting this outside in a colder climate with create more moisture settling in your air lines and equipment.  Do a  little more research and find a electric, vertical.  You can find some room, I know you can.

Answer 4

How can you expect an answer when you don't know the cfm you are going to produce or use?? Almost any compressor can run a spray paint gun,but when you start talking sanders and nailers you are in a different level(and torque wrenches) How many are you going to use at once?Whats required recovery time.What do the tool labels say needed?etc.etc