Do the airbrush compresors still need to have a seperate regulator and moisture trap to use them? If they do then I am thinking of buying a 2 gal compressor that already has them built in for less than a cheap table top one. Any suggestions?
Yes, I have a moisture trap that I installed in-line, meaning the air hose. I don’t have a regulator but it would sure help in maintaining a constant pressure instead of spitting out the back pressure built up when you’re not using it. If you can get a compressor with built in reg and moisture trap go for it.
Thanks Max, I figured it would be a better deal anyway since I could use it forr other things as well instead of only being able to paint. Plus that one is only $70 compared to the price of the table top versions.
Chris,
When I have the extra cash I am looking to go with a CO2 tank with a built in compressor so I can have a quiet compressor for evening work; my local welding supply company can hook me up with a 5lb tank for $75; it only costs $6 to refill and it is about 15" tall and easily moved. The taller cylinders (probably 100lb) are harder to transport to the welding supply house to refill due to weight and bulk(won’t fit in back seat of your Gremlin).
Max,
Have you looked into an air tank (without the compressor)? I bought a 7 gal. at Wally-World for around $20 and you can fill it with a regular compressor during the day or take it to a gas station. I put a regulator and a quick connect coupler on it so I could change brushes without unscrewing the hoses. I can usually paint the better part of a kit with about 10 cleanings on a full tank.
-fish
Fish- I saw those to but still have to buy the regulator and trap though right. If I remember right it said 115 psi is what it supplied. I thought about it but after buying everything needed I could spend a bit more and not have to worry about running out of air.
Hey Chris
If you’re looking for a compressor, check out some of the light industrial units that are available through your local hardware stores. Some come with tanks and pressure regulators already attached. The only other thing you’ll need is a moisture trap and maybe a couple of brass fittings to connect you airbrush.
Nice thing is they are far more reasonable in price than a hobby compressor.
Hey Chris. I just bought a 2 Gallon compressor (Campfield Haus) from PEP BOYS. It was on sale for $69.00! I loveit! It works just fine and has a built in regulator, accessories, coil hose, air chuck, etc. Small enough to NOT take up much space in the shop. I tried a little airbrushing when I got it home (couldn’t wait). I am going to get some quick disconnects tomorrow and a moisture trap.
Thanks guys I believe I’m going to go with the 2 gal one I saw at home depot. With my wife building now to it should pay for it’s self pretty quick. Thanks for the help.
If you haven’t bought the one from Home Depot yet take a look at this one from Sears.
I’ve seen it marked down to $100 recently, I paid $118. When I got this one I also got the extra warranty for $18, something I don’t usually do. But for 2 years it gives me a replacement guarantee, not repair, replacement. On the spot.
I had one of the CH compressors but it didn’t last long. This one is a little louder but it has a bigger motor and doesn’t take nearly as long to build up pressure. It’s an oil bath and has an air filter, comes with a whole bag full of adapters, couplings and such. I think it came with three quick disconnects. The only thing it doesn’t come with is a moisture trap.
Just bought a Werther 3 compressor, and am waiting for it to be delivered.
Bought it from a garage supplies company, who seemed to stock an incredibly large range hobby airbrushes, all at very reasonable prices.
I know European cars are smaller than their US equivalents, but come on…
It was at least £40 less than a basic airbrush compressor from an art/hobby store, and comes with a built in pressure regulator and gauge, as well as a small internal air tank to prevent pressure surges.
Can’t wait to find out how it sprays!
Karl