Replies

1. 
   IMERC | Jul 14, 2005 04:29am | #1

   Rol-aire or Thomas with a Honda engine...

    

1. 
   4Lorn1 | Jul 14, 2005 05:04am | #2

   Seems to me that a generator, a good sized one, and electric compressor would be more adaptable. If you need a gas powered compressor likely your going to need a generator anyway to run the saw. As an electrician I don't need much power. A drill or Sawsall and a few lights. A single 20A circuit is more than enough.The carpenters, as most seem to be on this site, would, could, need a bit more power but two 20A circuits is, in my experience, enough. I base this on the fact that the temporary power poles we install typically only have two 20A circuits and seldom do the carpenters complain. We include a 40A, 240v circuit but seldom do I see them being used. Even the compressors are run on one of the 20A 120v circuits.In a perfect world someone would manufacture a universal power unit that could be linked to any two devices. Selection of units which can bolt up to the unit would include: A generator head, compressor, semi-trash pump, possibly belt take-off for a table saw or heavy duty grinder. Maybe a flex drive for an auger and maybe a winch. Definitely a hydraulic pump for all the wonderful attachment that use such a feed. On commercial jobs a lot of tools, like cable cutters, crimpers, KO tools and benders run on hydraulic pressure. Contractors could use the concrete saw and jacks. Perhaps the winch would be better on the working end of a hydraulic unit.

1. 
   IMERC | Jul 14, 2005 05:09am | #3

   all I did was answer a specfic question with a specfic answer...

   I have the generator too.. but I don't run my electric compressor off of it... 

2. 
   Notchman | Jul 14, 2005 05:39am | #4

   I have both, but seldom use the Honda powered one.  It's heavy and noisy.....and reliable.  But the only time I really need it is when I'm starting a project and power hasn't been brought in yet.

   If I was doing additions or remodeling, I'd stay with the electric or use an Armstrong hammer if the power was out.

1. 
   DeaDRingeR | Jul 14, 2005 01:41pm | #5

   Yep I agree, electric compressor (a good one) should be fine for addition work. Gas usually works for newer homes and for many framers that need the air (nail guns) at the same time.

   DeWalt is the same thing as Emglo but yellow!

   MarkJack of all trades.................Master of none!

3. 
   dIrishInMe | Jul 14, 2005 02:26pm | #6

   Gas compressors are for framing crews with 4 to 10 guns running simultaniously.  The noise gets very old and it takes more than one guy to load/unload unless you have a good ramp system.  Even then, I wouldn't relish the idea of dragging one up the ramp after working a 10 hr day in 90 degree heat...  The best deal is to have it setup so you can just run it in the back of your truck/trailer unless you always have a crew with you.

   If that is really what you want, get one with a Honda engine.  Starts easy and is most dependable.
    

   Matt
4. 
   Framer | Jul 14, 2005 02:41pm | #7

   It all depends on how many guys you have. Like you said you will just be doing additions. Obliviously you wont be framing them alone. If it's just you and a helper all you need is an electric one. I would get either the Rolair or the Dewalt. They run two framing guns with no problems. If you have more guys than get a gas compressor and that I wouldn't think twice about getting the Rolair. I've had mine since 1993. Nothing else compares to that one for the price.

   http://www.mytoolstore.com/rolair/gb4.html

   http://www.mytoolstore.com/rolair/dpv5.html

   http://www.epinions.com/DeWalt_D55155_2_HP_4_Gallon_Hand_Carry_Electric_Compressor_Shop_Tools

   Joe Carola