Considering a purchase. Mainly for tire inflation purposes, but would be cool to have something that could power an impact wrench to remove wheels every once in awhile.

I'd like to keep the budget around $200, but I don't want junk.

So, what capacity, brands and features should I look for? Any advantages to horizontal over vertical setups? I'm clueless.

Looked at Craftsman so far. Seems like I could get something that would work that fits my budget, but don't know if the quality is there.

Thanks for any help you can offer.

I've had a craftsman for years. Just gave it to my dad. they are loud, but reliable.

I just picked up a Dewalt because the footprint was better suited for my work area.

Check out a thread started by Matatk on 12/04. Some good info.

Joel

Yea, Matatk's thread's goo.

The $200 Red Sears is extremely loud, like cutting off a steel door panel with an air chisel.
The red Sear's are not belt driven, the belt drives are as noisy.

You may want to check HD & Lowes.

A used Craftsman is not a bad way to go either.
I have a belt drive Craftsman that's 30 years old.

I got the one shown in the link below. It works great with impact tools, grinders and the like. I haven't tried it with an air brush or spray gun but with the right filters it may work ok. It is very quiet compared to my old Craftsman compressor. Matter of fact I'd say it is pretty quiet considering it is not an oiled unit.

http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12 ... Compressors+%26+Inflators

I got one from lowes or home depot (cant remember which) but its a kobalt 26 gallon 1.5 HP. Holds around 130-150 PSI at any given time. I like it cause the out going pressure can be regulated to the tools needs. I have used air chisles, impact wrenches, finishing nailers, stud nailers, air grinders (uses alot of air) and the tire tool. All worked really great cept the air chisle....waste of money IMO. The air grinder works great when there is enough pressure but it does run the air out quickly. It is a bit noisy when running but I have heard louder ones. This one is not quiet by any means but I have used it inside and I can still hear out of both ears. I recommend this as its in your price range AND it comes with a bunch of tools!
LINK 1
Below is the one I have
LIKE MINE

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Wait... Matt started a useful thread, other than "Hot Chick Friday?" Damn, no wonder I missed it!

Thanks guys. I'll start researching.

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Yup. I have to contribute at least one useful thread for every 1000 posts.

Matthew