FHB Logo Facebook LinkedIn Email Pinterest Twitter X Instagram Tiktok YouTube Plus Icon Close Icon Navigation Search Icon Navigation Search Icon Arrow Down Icon Video Guide Icon Article Guide Icon Modal Close Icon Guide Search Icon Skip to content
Subscribe
Log In
  • How-To
  • Design
  • Tools & Materials
  • Restoration
  • Videos
  • Blogs
  • Forum
  • Magazine
  • Members
  • FHB House
  • Podcast
Log In

Discussion Forum

Discussion Forum

Best Dang Compressor?

| Posted in General Discussion on April 18, 2001 01:53am

*
Jeff Buck said the Thomas T-2820ST was a keeper. I had crap for luck getting any info from their website but finally got a pamphlet for them.

Here are the specs. It is a oil-less, dual piston, 2 hp, 4 gal twin tank that claims 9 cfm air displacement, 5 cfm @ 100 psi, 13.5 amps, recovery time 9 seconds. Pressure switch 100-125 psi, 71 lbs.

They have a single piston model, T-150ST, that is the same except for 9.5 cfm air displacement, 4.85 cfm @ 100lbs, 12.5 amps, 76 lbs.

———————-

I am an oil fan, but need these numbers. The next best I could find needs a 20 amp service, and that is often a fantasy. So? Who else puts out a comp that can compare with these in a hand-held?

So far, I have to say these are the king of the heap…

Do you hate oil-less so much these are not an option?

Is the damn near $500 price tag a no-go?

Reply
  • X
  • facebook
  • linkedin
  • pinterest
  • email
  • add to favorites Log in or Sign up to save your favorite articles

Replies

  1. Jason | Feb 14, 2001 02:08pm | #1

    *
    Here's the Hitachi specs (straight from them, of course):

    4.0 CFM at 90 PSI
    Direct drive electric oil-bath motor
    Line regulator with gauge
    O-ring on draincock makes valve easy to open and close
    Vertically stacked twin tanks, 2 gallon capacity each
    15 AMPS and 3450 RPM
    8.2 CFM Air displacement and recovery time of 14 seconds
    Start/Stop control of 100/125 PSI
    4.3 gallon tank
    Weighs 60 lbs.

    I paid about $240 for mine. Been using for three-four years now. Hope this helps.

    1. The_Tennis_Court_Builder_...on_t | Feb 14, 2001 03:39pm | #2

      *My pancake compresser is a Sears...It is oiless...can run on 15amp breakers and on any leadcord...It is the quietest compresser in the world. It was very inexpensive to buy.near the stream,ajIt has run for years...I bought a spare piston and sleeve because they are real cheap parts...But have never needed the parts...I installed one to bubble a dock to keep ice away...years ago...it runs all winter 24/7!!!!!!!!!!!Way less than 5 bills!

      1. Frank_"Mad_Dog"_Maglin | Feb 15, 2001 03:42am | #3

        *Jason, I own the same compresser. Have had it about 3yrs now and if I had to replace it, I'd surely buy another. Compared to a lot of other brands the Hitachi is fairly quiet too.

        1. Phill_Giles | Feb 15, 2001 05:25am | #4

          *Are the Campbell-Hausfield's really that bad ? Home depot are featuring a 3hp/4gal twin tank "contractor extreme-duty" compressor kit, c/w nailer, hose, fittings, etc. at an attractive price. Now, I know some of the other grades of C-H compressors are stictly 1-deck/home--owner commodities; however, I've had practicaly no feedback specifc to this machine.

          1. Qtrmeg_ | Feb 16, 2001 05:31am | #5

            *I looked at the Hitachi, and agree that is is a nice comp, but I had my doubts that it would do what I want. I asked the salesman about the specs and he went into doh-mode so I left it. I also had a Campbell Hausfield and sold it to the first guy that would buy it. I had a need for a second finish comp and the only people left stocking anything around here anymore is Home Depot. So I bought the 2hp Extreme Duty. It pumped air fine, was fairly quiet, but everything about it was cheap. Just to drive me over the edge, the fittings I bought at HD were garbage, blew one after a little while and that cost me more than the comp was worth. What I like about the Thomas 2820 is that it may keep up for production nailing, without dragging around the backbreaking wheelbarrow Emglo. I also like that I can run it off a 15 amp breaker. What I also like is that one of the two remaining lumber yards around here is a dealer for them, and they should be the first ones to get what little money I have.I have to admit the price is a killer, but the last best chioce I came up with was an Emglo that was every bit of $400, so the extra for the Thomas doesn't seem like such a big deal, if the quality is there.This isn't about which compressor will run a nailgun, this is more like which one will pump up and ask me what is taking so long, (that I can pick up with one hand).

          2. Richard_Thomas | Mar 29, 2001 03:50am | #6

            *I had a Thomas oiless once. It sucked two head gaskets and I finally got rid of it. You'd think with a name like Thomas it's got to be good. I've had an Emglo dual tank(not a wheelbarrow)for a while. It trips it's own breaker all the time and doesn't like to be cold at all. I have to keep a kerosene heater going next to it in the winter! I am going to break down and buy a Rol-Air next week. They have oiless that are made in Italy but I am going for the US made model. I bet it is the best little compressor made. A friend of mine sells and services them and he wouldn't steer me wrong.

          3. Phill_Giles | Mar 29, 2001 04:41am | #7

            *My memory may be faulty here; but, I'm sure I heard/read somewhere that the US-built portable Rol-Air compressors used Thomas pumps.

          4. Jeff_J._Buck | Mar 30, 2001 12:26am | #8

            *Hey....I'm famous! Jeff

          5. Qtrmeg_ | Mar 31, 2001 02:41pm | #9

            *Ya Phil, Rol-Air is using Thomas pumps on some of their models.Ya Jeff, you are famous, but could you give up a little info on how you like that comp of yours, how much you paid, etc? So far it looks to be the best I have seen, but the yard only stocks the T-150ST for $340, and they think the T-2820ST will be about $440, but they have to get a figure for freight.Like I said above, I want the comp to run on a 15amp breaker, and pump enough air so I don't need to lift the monster Emglo anymore.

          6. Jeff_J._Buck | Apr 01, 2001 08:11am | #10

            *Well.....it been about three years now...I think....and I too had to track down a place to buy it. I called the factory direct, and they gave me a lumber yard about 45 min. away. I called, they said they had it...I drove out and they had the 150! So....after I cried for a little...the price was a little over $400......I think maybe $420 or $430. The factory actually gave me a price to ask for! Think they said not to pay over $450....and tell so and so the manager that so and so said to give me the price! I bought two guns and a coupla hoses....so I worked a package deal. I still think it's one of the best compressors I've been around. Still a little heavy for the size....right around 70lbs or so, but fits into the van and tucks away nice. Some days I eat my Wheaties and a second floor carry is no problem.....other's I run hose as far as I can! I've usually run my Sence finish nailer off it, but also have run a two framing nailers, and two roofers off it.....but nothing real fast....no two man production work here. It is extension cord safe, though I do have a 10 or 12 gage 50' cord specially for it. I've never tripped a breaker using it in anyones house....and some of the places I work on have been lacking in electrical updates for the last century or so. It's also fairly quiet compared to others I've heard...including the oil-Emglows. I have no problem letting it run in a customers home. I would like to take a look at their little 3/4 HP model for slow finish work.....supposed to weight less than a bag of groceries...and one article compared the sound to an aquarium pump! I take real good care of all my tools, and usually it's just me, and the helper know they'll get thrown off the roof for breaking something....but it's still running like new. I've had it outside at near zero degrees, and close to 100....been rained and snowed on...no problems starting or running. I do put a half sheet of ply under it if it's not on swept concrete.....the filter still looks brand new. From what I understand....it's more powerful and quieter than the 150st....which is still supposed to be a good machine. Jeff

          7. Bill_Bleiler | Apr 02, 2001 12:49am | #11

            *Anybody looking for a Thomas air compressor can find them at http://www.bobstools.net. They seem to offer a full line of Thomas compressors along with full specs for each. As far as the difference beteewn the T-2820ST that Jeff Buck owns and the T-150ST, is the 2820St has a higher cfm rating then the 150ST , which is very small. The 150St is $100.00 cheaper.

          8. Ray_Schwalb | Apr 18, 2001 01:53am | #12

            *I just bought a Thomas 2820st air compressor from Bobstools.net. I can't say enough good things about it. Easy ordering, good price (best I've found) and quick shipping. Used the compressor 2 days now framing a garage. It has been great, and quiet too. Now only if it was a little lighter.

  2. Qtrmeg_ | Apr 18, 2001 01:53am | #13

    *
    Jeff Buck said the Thomas T-2820ST was a keeper. I had crap for luck getting any info from their website but finally got a pamphlet for them.

    Here are the specs. It is a oil-less, dual piston, 2 hp, 4 gal twin tank that claims 9 cfm air displacement, 5 cfm @ 100 psi, 13.5 amps, recovery time 9 seconds. Pressure switch 100-125 psi, 71 lbs.

    They have a single piston model, T-150ST, that is the same except for 9.5 cfm air displacement, 4.85 cfm @ 100lbs, 12.5 amps, 76 lbs.

    ----------------------

    I am an oil fan, but need these numbers. The next best I could find needs a 20 amp service, and that is often a fantasy. So? Who else puts out a comp that can compare with these in a hand-held?

    So far, I have to say these are the king of the heap...

    Do you hate oil-less so much these are not an option?

    Is the damn near $500 price tag a no-go?

Log in or create an account to post a comment.

Sign up Log in

Become a member and get full access to FineHomebuilding.com

Video Shorts

Categories

  • Business
  • Code Questions
  • Construction Techniques
  • Energy, Heating & Insulation
  • General Discussion
  • Help/Work Wanted
  • Photo Gallery
  • Reader Classified
  • Tools for Home Building

Discussion Forum

Recent Posts and Replies

  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
View More Create Post

Up Next

Video Shorts

Featured Story

Simple and Discreet Countertop Power

A new code-compliant, spill-safe outlet from Legrand offers a sleek solution for a kitchen island plug.

Featured Video

How to Install Exterior Window Trim

Learn how to measure, cut, and build window casing made of cellular PVC, solid wood, poly-ash boards, or any common molding material. Plus, get tips for a clean and solid installation.

Related Stories

  • Fire-Resistant Landscaping and Home Design Details
  • A New Approach to Foundations
  • A Closer Look at Smart Water-Leak Detection Systems
  • Guest Suite With a Garden House

Highlights

Fine Homebuilding All Access
Fine Homebuilding Podcast
Tool Tech
Plus, get an extra 20% off with code GIFT20

"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters
See all newsletters

Fine Homebuilding Magazine

  • Issue 332 - July 2025
    • Custom Built-ins With Job-Site Tools
    • Fight House Fires Through Design
    • Making the Move to Multifamily
  • Issue 331 - June 2025
    • A More Resilient Roof
    • Tool Test: You Need a Drywall Sander
    • Ducted vs. Ductless Heat Pumps
  • Issue 330 - April/May 2025
    • Deck Details for Durability
    • FAQs on HPWHs
    • 10 Tips for a Long-Lasting Paint Job
  • Issue 329 - Feb/Mar 2025
    • Smart Foundation for a Small Addition
    • A Kominka Comes West
    • Making Small Kitchens Work
  • Issue 328 - Dec/Jan 2024
    • How a Pro Replaces Columns
    • Passive House 3.0
    • Tool Test: Compact Line Lasers

Fine Home Building

Newsletter Sign-up

  • Fine Homebuilding

    Home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox.

  • Green Building Advisor

    Building science and energy efficiency advice, plus special offers, in your inbox.

  • Old House Journal

    Repair, renovation, and restoration tips, plus special offers, in your inbox.

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters

Follow

  • Fine Homebuilding

    Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
    • LinkedIn
  • GBA Prime

    Get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • YouTube
  • Old House Journal

    Learn how to restore, repair, update, and decorate your home.

    Subscribe Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
  • Fine Homebuilding

    Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
    • LinkedIn
  • GBA Prime

    Get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • YouTube
  • Old House Journal

    Learn how to restore, repair, update, and decorate your home.

    Subscribe Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X

Membership & Magazine

  • Online Archive
  • Start Free Trial
  • Magazine Subscription
  • Magazine Renewal
  • Gift a Subscription
  • Customer Support
  • Privacy Preferences
  • About
  • Contact
  • Advertise
  • Careers
  • Terms of Use
  • Site Map
  • Do not sell or share my information
  • Privacy Policy
  • Accessibility
  • California Privacy Rights

© 2025 Active Interest Media. All rights reserved.

Fine Homebuilding receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

  • Home Group
  • Antique Trader
  • Arts & Crafts Homes
  • Bank Note Reporter
  • Cabin Life
  • Cuisine at Home
  • Fine Gardening
  • Fine Woodworking
  • Green Building Advisor
  • Garden Gate
  • Horticulture
  • Keep Craft Alive
  • Log Home Living
  • Military Trader/Vehicles
  • Numismatic News
  • Numismaster
  • Old Cars Weekly
  • Old House Journal
  • Period Homes
  • Popular Woodworking
  • Script
  • ShopNotes
  • Sports Collectors Digest
  • Threads
  • Timber Home Living
  • Traditional Building
  • Woodsmith
  • World Coin News
  • Writer's Digest
Active Interest Media logo
X
X
This is a dialog window which overlays the main content of the page. The modal window is a 'site map' of the most critical areas of the site. Pressing the Escape (ESC) button will close the modal and bring you back to where you were on the page.

Main Menu

  • How-To
  • Design
  • Tools & Materials
  • Video
  • Blogs
  • Forum
  • Project Guides
  • Reader Projects
  • Magazine
  • Members
  • FHB House

Podcasts

  • FHB Podcast
  • ProTalk

Webinars

  • Upcoming and On-Demand

Podcasts

  • FHB Podcast
  • ProTalk

Webinars

  • Upcoming and On-Demand

Popular Topics

  • Kitchens
  • Business
  • Bedrooms
  • Roofs
  • Architecture and Design
  • Green Building
  • Decks
  • Framing
  • Safety
  • Remodeling
  • Bathrooms
  • Windows
  • Tilework
  • Ceilings
  • HVAC

Magazine

  • Current Issue
  • Past Issues
  • Magazine Index
  • Subscribe
  • Online Archive
  • Author Guidelines

All Access

  • Member Home
  • Start Free Trial
  • Gift Membership

Online Learning

  • Courses
  • Project Guides
  • Reader Projects
  • Podcast

More

  • FHB Ambassadors
  • FHB House
  • Customer Support

Account

  • Log In
  • Join

Newsletter

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters
See all newsletters

Follow

  • X
  • YouTube
  • instagram
  • facebook
  • pinterest
  • Tiktok

Join All Access

Become a member and get instant access to thousands of videos, how-tos, tool reviews, and design features.

Start Your Free Trial

Subscribe

FHB Magazine

Start your subscription today and save up to 70%

Subscribe

Enjoy unlimited access to Fine Homebuilding. Join Now

Already a member? Log in

We hope you’ve enjoyed your free articles. To keep reading, become a member today.

Get complete site access to expert advice, how-to videos, Code Check, and more, plus the print magazine.

Start your FREE trial

Already a member? Log in

Privacy Policy Update

We use cookies, pixels, script and other tracking technologies to analyze and improve our service, to improve and personalize content, and for advertising to you. We also share information about your use of our site with third-party social media, advertising and analytics partners. You can view our Privacy Policy here and our Terms of Use here.

Cookies

Analytics

These cookies help us track site metrics to improve our sites and provide a better user experience.

Advertising/Social Media

These cookies are used to serve advertisements aligned with your interests.

Essential

These cookies are required to provide basic functions like page navigation and access to secure areas of the website.

Delete My Data

Delete all cookies and associated data