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Thomas T-2820 is a real nice unit.It is a tandem motor/pump unit that recovers fast.Very important for production framing.
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I'm looking for recommendations for a small,portable air compressor. Presently, I've been looking at Campbell Hausfeld's 1-1/2 hp, 4-gallon "pancake" style. My needs are primarily for driving a framing nailer (possibly a Porter-Cable FR350) for small remodeling jobs. I need good cfm @100psi, good recovery (without stressing out the motor), low noise, portability, and durability.
*Brian,I only know one person who bought a Campbell compressor and they thought it was garbage (and so did I). The only recommendation I can make is Emglo.http://www.emglo.com/emglo.htmlLook at the products section under "Hand Carry". Good luck,Greg
*Brian, if your needs are only for small remod jobs, consider a Paslode Framer. No compressor, hose, etc. to lug around. I've had mine now for about a year. I've shot a ton of nails thru it, from 6d to 16d, with never a misfire or jam. The only downside I can offer is it doesn't rapid fire on sheathing like some air guns, but it'll throw a nail as fast as you can pull the trigger. Also, the magazine only holds one stick. They are both small inconviences for the versatility of the gun. Keep it cleaned regularly, and you'll love it.
*I've been using a Thomas ST2820 for almost a year now.This compressor rated highly in various mags. testing.I'm very happy I spent the extra(around $400).It's a stacked hotdog, 4 gal.,2 HP and recovers in something like 11 sec.It's comparitively quiet(even indoors)and powerful enough for a framing nailer and roofing gun.I use it mostly for trim,though.It's oil-less so it workes well in the cold and on sloped roofs.They have similar versions for less money but they didn't rate as quiet in the tests I've read.I had to call around and the factory found me a lumber yard that sold them about an hour away.Glad I made the drive.Oil-less works well with the Senco guns so I don't need to remember any maintenence!Haven't tripped any breakers yet.
*In my opinion the Hitachi EC12 is one real workhorse. I've owned and used it for the last 2 years and haven't had any problems with it whatsoever. I've run a framing nailer and finish nailer at the same time (installing log siding and window trim) with no problem. MDM.
*I have a campbell twin tank 2 hp & it works fine. I have had it for over a year & have beat the snot out of it & it is working fine. The only thing I've repaired was replacing the petcock. bucks at the car parts store.
*Brian,For pickup and assorted odds and ends such as you describe my recommendation would be an Emglo Airmate in the 1 1/2 horsepower size. I have a couple of old ones that are at least ten years old and they still run a Hitachi NR 83-Anailer just fine. They have been trouble free and parts are still readily available. They run best on a 20 amp circuit. The low noise issue is a relative one, you'll need to fire one up at the store to see how you like it.Marshall Winn
*Thomas T-2820 is a real nice unit.It is a tandem motor/pump unit that recovers fast.Very important for production framing.
*Have owned a Campbell for 5 years. Not oil-less. Not the pancake model either. Like it, converted it to 220 for use in shop (dims the lights less when it kicks on.) It is kind of loud though not as loud as the oiless models. Still plan to move it outside with a dust collector someday. To save ears, and space.
*Brian,I only know one person who bought a Campbell compressor and they thought it was garbage (and so did I). The only recommendation I can make is Emglo.http://www.emglo.com/emglo.htmlLook at the products section under "Hand Carry". Good luck,Greg
*Brian, if your needs are only for small remod jobs, consider a Paslode Framer. No compressor, hose, etc. to lug around. I've had mine now for about a year. I've shot a ton of nails thru it, from 6d to 16d, with never a misfire or jam. The only downside I can offer is it doesn't rapid fire on sheathing like some air guns, but it'll throw a nail as fast as you can pull the trigger. Also, the magazine only holds one stick. They are both small inconviences for the versatility of the gun. Keep it cleaned regularly, and you'll love it.