What Is a Good Air Compressor for Working on Cars?
An air compressor is a valuable time-saving tool for working on cars. Choosing a good air compressor for your home auto shop requires that you pay attention to the performance levels and versatility of the air compressor you buy.
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Identification
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An air compressor is a large, loud, electric-powered tool that pumps fast-moving air through a hose. A compressor is one of the most expensive tools used in a basic auto shop. The cost of commercial-grade compressors ranges from $250 to about $2,000.
Capacity
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A compressor must have enough capacity to perform well for working on cars. "How to Restore Your Collector Car" by Tom Brownell recommends a minimum 220-volt compressor that operates at 5 horsepower and supplies at least 20 cubic feet of air per minute. Heavy-duty auto shop jobs require a minimum of 150 psi, or pounds per square inch.
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Accessories
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An air compressor should be able to attach to accessories like a paint gun or sand blaster. Using a compressor-powered paint gun or sand blaster makes auto paint jobs faster and easier.
Uses
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In addition to spray painting and sanding, you can use an air compressor to operate air-powered tools such as wrenches, grinders and similar electrical tools. Outside the auto shop, you can use an air compressor to fill bike tires or do some compressed-air dusting.
Considerations
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Some manufacturers claim product performance levels that don't measure up when you use them at home. When buying a compressor that meets the necessary performance requirements, try to learn whether people who have bought the compressor are happy with the power it has.
Power
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Compressors can be powered by gasoline as well as by electricity. Gasoline-powered compressors are usually portable. For a permanently mounted compressor for use in an auto shop, an electric compressor is most suitable.
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