Question
 

Not really a truck question, but needed to work on my truck.

I don't have an air compressor or mig welder with all of the associated tools. What would you recommend me buy to start my garage. I don't need anything heavy duty only hobby level.

Has anyone bought the air compressor kits from lowes or home depot. they are like $350 for the compressor and some tools. Would that be enough to run what I need?

Also, would a hobart 135 be enough to do body work and odd and end things around the garage. I've watched Ebay for used migs, but they go for about the same as new ones. I think I would rather have the 175 model, but don't have the cheese for that at the moment...

Anyway, thanks for the insights. Bar none this is the best board I have ever used...

If you are running air tools that require a lot of CFM like D/A sanders, then you want to buy a compressor with a large capacity. If you don't you'll be waiting for the compressor to catch up more than you will be using the tool. If all you want to do is run inpact gun or ratchet, then a smaller one will work fine. At the very least get a 2 stage as it's quieter and has a longer life. Sears has a rating system from 1- 9 that matches compresser capability to the tool's CFM usage, 9 being the highest. I bought one that is rated a 7 and it works well for me, though I do find I'm waiting sonme for the tools rated at 8 or 9.

like cpne said get a 2stage compressor, i've got a 6hp oilless compressor from sears and it was cheap , it works fine but MAN IS IT NOISEY!! i'd say a good place to start would be a minimum 5hp for a handyman type situation

oilless compressors are LOUD!!!! All of them. Not worth it IMO.

I have a 220v single phase 6.5 hp 2 stage compressor (the kind that require oil). Much quieter. I will never again buy an oilless compressor.

Listen to one of them before you buy it. Make sure you can stand it. They're cheaper, but....