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Harbor Freight Air Compressor

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  • Member since
    December 2001
  • 3,139 posts
Posted by chutton01 on Thursday, January 14, 2016 1:51 PM

I purchased this Central Pneumatic (1/3HP, 3gal 100psi) model several years ago (or one very similar to it), works pretty well with no issues so far. I've only used it for airbrushing, I have a different heavy one for air-powered tools and inflating tires.
Lightweight and seeming pretty durable; yes it is somewhat noisy (but not Jet Engine loud).
I drain the air after use to prevent rusting of the tank. Takes standard quick-disconnect fittings, no problem.

  • Member since
    October 2005
  • From: Detroit, Michigan
  • 2,284 posts
Posted by Soo Line fan on Thursday, January 14, 2016 1:31 PM

The harbor is a funny place. Go there enough and you may get soaked. Their tool boxes are outstanding. Air tools are junk as are the floor jacks. The jack stands are fine. And so it goes.....

The online reviews tell a story. Read and heed and you can save some money on some good tools. Ignore the reviews and you will end up with junk.

Jim

  • Member since
    August 2015
  • 371 posts
Posted by fieryturbo on Thursday, January 14, 2016 12:42 PM

I'll reiterate again, learn from my mistakes and buy something quality.

Julian

Modeling Pre-WP merger UP (1974-81)

  • Member since
    December 2015
  • From: Shenandoah Valley
  • 9,094 posts
Posted by BigDaddy on Thursday, January 14, 2016 12:02 PM

They have 2 models, which look identical to me. This one has the most reviews, 2/3 love it the others have, leaks, overheating, failure.  http://www.harborfreight.com/1-6-hp-40-psi-oilless-airbrush-compressor-93657.html

I was just looking at their pancake compressors.  The regulators they sell in the store do not permit fine adjustment. 

Henry

COB Potomac & Northern

Shenandoah Valley

  • Member since
    August 2015
  • 371 posts
Posted by fieryturbo on Thursday, January 14, 2016 11:40 AM

I bought it, and wish I hadn't.

It sucks, and none of the fittings are compatible with ANYTHING else.

It doesn't have a valve to adjust pressure either.

You get what you pay for.

I will replace it at some point.

Julian

Modeling Pre-WP merger UP (1974-81)

  • Member since
    February 2013
  • 479 posts
Posted by HObbyguy on Thursday, January 14, 2016 11:17 AM

I can't speak to the one you are considering but I bought an oiless pancake compressor for under $100 for the train shop. Far better for airbrushing than airbrush kit compressors. It's noisy but hardly runs and the pressure  to the airbrush stays rock steady.

Huntington Junction - Freelance based on the B&O and C&O in coal country before the merger...  doing it my way.  Now working on phase 3.      - Walt

For photos and more:  http://www.wkhobbies.com/model-railroad/

  • Member since
    August 2010
  • From: Columbia, IL
  • 394 posts
Harbor Freight Air Compressor
Posted by wdcrvr on Thursday, January 14, 2016 10:41 AM

Hi.  Harbor Freight has a Central Pneumatic, 1/6 hp, 58psi, oilless air compressor for $69.99.  Some of the reviews claim it to be quiet and capable for airbrushing duty.  I am looking for opinions from the MR community.  Thanks.

wdcrvr

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