I have finally got my garage to the point where I can build a work bench and all that good stuff so my question for you guys with all goodies is what kind of compressor should I be looking for? How may gallons/hp? What works best with out breaking the bank or taking up too much space.

I bought a sears craftsman,floor model 6 hp 33gal tank for $150.00.does the job and more.

Sweet. Thats what I was looking for. My buddy tried to sell me this little Makita 1.5 hp oiless thing but it just looked to small to blow a good amount air for more than a few seconds. How much floor space does it take up.

one of my riding buddies has a 40 or 50 gallon compressor and it doesn't take up to much space at all so i would imagine that a 33 gallon would be perfect for a bike owner.

If you are limited to single phase then you are pretty much restricted to a 5 hp or thereabouts compressor. This will run any air tool and most paint guns, but will not do a good job w/ a sand blaster or blast cabinet.

Harbor Freight probably has the best deals on air compressors. You should be able to save $100 or so over most, if not all, local retailers.

Sears is okay I guess, but when it comes to power tools etc. there stuff is no better than the bargain bin at Harbor Freight IMHO.

My two cents.

I don't know much about compresser's but when my brother was up a long time ago and heard mine run he said MAN is that quiet!

It's a very old one that I had given to me. He said all the new ones are Loud ? Mine has a little old piston motor on it driven by an electic motor by belt.

The new ones are sealed bearings or something aren't they with no oil in them? Is this what makes them so loud. Just thought I'd mention it in case this will be an issue because of the location your putting it.

If I ever get a new one can they be put out side? I was thinking of making an enclosed set up for it so you don't see it but not sure if 10,20 degrees will effect it's performance or dependability? <font color="brown">

Also Sear's has a nice retractable twin tube, florecent work light with 20' cord ( about 33.00) that I recommend also for your garage. I used to use the one's with just normal light bulbs but they always seemed to break! Even with the so called heavy duty bulbs. This one I dropped numerous times with no ill effects.

<font color="brown"> Good pic at www.craftsman.com I see they made it a 4 tube design now with added features and more $$. The light is now double the width which in certain areas might not work as well. As if 2 tubes wasn't bright enough! Tim the Toolman Taylor must of told sear's "MORE POWER" <font color="brown">

I got mine for X-Mas 3 years ago, so it was <font color="orange">FREE to me. They got the one from Lowe's. The 6hp complete set-up. I really wanted a bigger one, but I'm happy with it.

I personally do not like oiless compressors. I am in the compressed air industry(I work for a compressed air pipe manufacture). I personally have one that uses oil It is a lot more quiet. To the point where I can be on the phone standing right next to it. It is also nice to use at night and keeps the neighbors happy. Harbor freight has some good deals on compressors. At the consumer level they are all the same quality, h.f. vs. sears. I can always hook you up on a 2500hp screw drive for about $150,000! It is real quiet too.

Hey Honda88, how did you get a 33gal, 6 horse for 150.00? I just bought a new one (same model) for 279.00!

I have the Craftsman. It is really loud. I think it is because it is oil less. Something to think about. I really don't use it that much, to be honest. You don't need the torque of the impact and the air ratchets are pretty slow as compared to a speed wrench. If I were to do it again, I would look for quiet. If too expensive, I'd go with the vertical compressor instead of the horizontal. MXRACERAZ, can I use PVC schedule 40 to plumb air in my garage? What are your opinions? I know the outside of the pipe says good for like 150psi, but is that reality or safe.

like i said it was a floor model they wanted 200 but i got them to go down to 150. remember these people only work there they dont care as long as they make a sale.it is an oilless model it does make noise but it is in the garage neighbors cant hear.just shop around and check flea markets,garage sales.takes up very little room.this is a must have,making cleaning alot easier.plus most gas stations either have no air or you have to pay.filling tires at home is great.

NO I would not use PVC. It is very dangerous. There has been quite a few instances of them rupturing. I suggest using Copper. It is very safe and very clean to do. It is also easy.

My compressor is a Husky 22 gallons. Came with 3/8 air ratchet, 1/2 impact driver, and an air impact I think for around 300 (not sure. my gf gave it to me as a b-day present. Isn't she sweet!) 22 gallons is perfect for what I do. Plenty enough to use the impact driver and air ratchet. I would definitely invest in a 1/4" air ratchet because the 3/8 will strip a bolt out.