adaboy

Hello all,
I'm looking for a compact, quiet, high quality compressor that runs on 110V but that puts out the max CFM possible for its size. Price is secondary. I've heard good things about Thomas Compressors and Makita. The oilless Thomas T-2820ST seems to have about the best output/size ratio I can find with 5 CFM @ 100psi, only 74 dB noise level, 66 lbs, 9 second recovery, and a compact 20 x 16 x 16in (approx) as described on their website: thomasairpac.com

I've also checked out two oil-lubricated Makitas: the MAC 2400 with 4.2CFM @ 90psi, 77lbs, only 79dB (sounded pretty quiet to me at AAA Tools in VanNuys), and the MAC 5200 with 6.5 CFM, 88 lbs, and 90dB (sounded louder than what I'm looking for). I like the quietness of the MAC2400 but the CFM output might not be high enough for what I need (usually using 1-3 tools at a time -nail guns, small handheld hammer chisel, sander, or occasionaly a texture gun). I want a compressor powerful enough to use for most applications. It would be nice to find a 6-7 CFM compressor that's about as compact & quiet as the Thomas or Makita.

Conflicting Reports: One compressor repair shop said the Thomas oilless pistons wear out much faster than oil-lubricated designs, saying I might get only a year or so before needing a rebuild, while an oil-lubricated pump would last much longer. Another repair shop said the Thomas pumps could last 5-10 years under moderate use.

I have 3 questions. I'm leaning toward buying a Thomas T 2820. 1) For any Thomas owners out there - how's the CFM output and longevity of your compressor - has it been adequate? 2) Are there any other brands/models that are comparable to the Thomas for CFM output, quietness, size, and durability? 3) Do oilless pumps have a significantly shorter lifespan than oil-lubricated? Anyone know a tool shop in L.A. area who stocks Thomas compressors? Any input would be great.

jvcstone

A few years ago, I needed a small compressor with those cfm requirements to push a carving hammer. HD had a ridgit twin stack oil less that puts out 6.2 cfm at 90 psi for about 250.00

Can't speak to it's quietness as I have nothing to compare it too, but it is 110, lightweight, and can run a hammer all day long. Since it is my "traveler", I have only used it a few times, so I can't say anything about it's longevity also.

JVC

__________________
John VanCamp
www.jvcstoneworks.com

adaboy

jvcstone: Thanks for the input. 6.2 cfm is pretty impressive. I should check out the Ridgids.

Bradracer18

I've got a ridgid oilless......don't know the specs on it off hand.....it is a twin tank, stacker. It's fairly quite....somewhat light(small guy, ha)....I like the quick couplers and the air adjustment on the front there.....

Brushslingers

Thought about an airtank? You could leave the compressor outside and just have it fill the tank, so there is no sound inside while you use your three tools.....

__________________
Benn