Here we go again with Compressors

[kinein]

So what do you guys think of the 2 stage compressor at HF? Right now its on sale for $799 plus I have a 20% coupon for it. Now I had my eye on a Ingersoll Rand at Tractor Supply for $699 before this sale happen. Tractor Supply Offered me 10% off on my purchase on the IR. So now what do I do?

here is the link to the IR compressor

Ingersoll RandŽ 5 HP Air Compressor, 60 gal. - Tractor Supply Co.


here is the link to the HF 2 stage compressor

60 Gallon Air Compressor - 2 Stage, 5 HP, 165 PSI

So what would you do and does anyone have any experience with either compressor? Is the HF 2 stage loud? it will be my home garage compressor.

[wdfifteen]

I got a similar HF compressor 5 years ago. The tank leaks at the weld where the drain assy is welded on. Pump still works great, but I'm not happy about such a fundamental flaw.

[Icemaster]

Pretty sure I'd be going with the IR. I used them exclusively back in the day and had great experience with them in industrial and construction settings.

You still get what you pay for. That little difference in cost I'd use the one that has a name to stand behind it.

[masraum]

Originally Posted by Icemaster

Pretty sure I'd be going with the IR.

You still get what you pay for. That little difference in cost I'd use the one that has a name to stand behind it.

+1 The price difference isn't big enough to go with the HF stuff vs a decent name brand. If the price difference was $2000 vs $620, maybe...

[kinein]

I agree about getting the IR compressor, just for a minute there I was thinking well for the same money I could get a 2 stage compressor but once again it is a harbor freight compressor.

[rusnak]

Originally Posted by wdfifteen

I got a similar HF compressor 5 years ago. The tank leaks at the weld where the drain assy is welded on. Pump still works great, but I'm not happy about such a fundamental flaw.

This video says that the cause was internal rust. To me, it looks more like the tank unzipped at a bad weld.

[on2wheels52]

Looks promising since it's not one of those direct drive noisy *&%$#@.
Jim

[peppy]

Check the fine print on the 20% HF coupon. This one says you can't use it for compressors.


http://images.harborfreight.com/hftweb/newhome11/images/20off912-aff17569.jpg

[onewhippedpuppy]

Originally Posted by rusnak

This video says that the cause was internal rust. To me, it looks more like the tank unzipped at a bad weld.

Holy hell! I agree though, it doesn't look heavily corroded inside. It looks like an old compressor that just fatigued over time until the welds could no longer hold pressure.

[OffCamber00]

HF is great for many things. Air compressors are not one of them. Take your $700 and buy an old Champion, Speedaire or similar that will last you forever.

[gshase]

IR or Speedaire.....You will like the high 90 psi # of over 10 cfm.

[Joeaksa]

I bought a 60 gallon upright industrial sized compressor at HF 5-6 years ago. Used the 20% discount and got it for $499. 14.3 cfm @ 90 psi

Worked like a charm and I have used it a lot.

[rick-l]

I was told the 5hp HF compressor was made by IR

[kinein]

All morning I have been trying to figure who makes the HF compressor. I found a thread on a mustang site saying the compressors in 2010 was US General brand made by Belaire

Anyone use a Harbor Freight (US General) air compressor? - Vintage Mustang Forums

[kinein]

Well I am going to go ahead and get the Ingersoll Rand compressor. I now will have a over size compressor for tire inflating.

[rfuerst911sc]

You will not be disappointed with the IR. Any compressor is noisy but oil type will be better than oil less.

[aschen]

wait is this a trick question HR vs IR? Which do you prefer Victorias secret model or a Plus sized cougar.


I think you made the right choice.

[kinein]

How many of you guys buy the extended warranties?

[mreid]

The most complicated tool I've purchased from HF is my 20 ton press. For your air compressor, by quality.

[Joeaksa]

Originally Posted by kinein

How many of you guys buy the extended warranties?

Never! Use a credit card that doubles the warranty for free. My Amex does this.

The extended warranty is simply a money maker for the companies... and rarely for the customer.