1.A good video on the "sandblaster trap" th-cam.com/video/KFgA0n3Vr68/w-d-xo.html 2. The website/link to the "evinflo" comment actually referred to an "Evintho" license plate, and I finally found it!!!! www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=207210 Also, consider getting a 4 way "T" like I did instead of the 3 way T as shown in the link, for easier cleaning. Also, I provided a number of alternate links/info in the comments section under different youtuber's comments. These modifications are a suggestion of "one way" to do it, but by no means are they the only way. At lower CFMs, you might decide to not even change anything, it is all predicated on your individual needs. Also, I would recommend multiple air dryers in line if moisture is an issue. 3. In the video, I have a bleed off valve for air for the helmet. After using it, I would recommend against it. Not healthy, use a separate air source. 4. People have asked about soda blasting. I haven't tried soda blasting yet. I would recommend doing searches for soda blasting / alternative media for more info.
I have $15,000 worth of professional sandblasters, and it looks like I"m not the first to say that this guy knows his stuff. I only watched this video for 5 minutes toward the end. From what I saw, he essentially described what makes those expensive blasters work on a professional level. You obviously won't win the Indy 500 driving a Volkswagen, but then again you really don't need a Formula 1 car to make a beer run.
It is not often that one comes across a professional with a doctorate in sandblastology. So much valuable knowledge in this very thorough video, I am grateful. Cheers
You saved me about $600 between a new, albeit underpowered air compressor, the sand blaster itself, and supplies. Now I know not to even bother until I can afford a proper compressor. Thank you! You’ve saved a lot of people time and money with your help
I did exactly what he warned about. Bought second hand comp. blast cabinet with foot peddle and blast pot. Traveled miles with my trailer to collect it all. Turns out the guy was selling 'cause it was not up to snuff. Wasted a ton of money and still don't have a good set-up!
This video is extremely underrated. Thank you for pointing out all the valuable information. Just ordered my sandblaster and will upgrade it to 1/2 inch piping. My 28 cfm gasoline compressor will make short work of every project!! Thanks again you are a legend!
I own an old steel boat (1949 built) and the cost to get it commercially blasted is astronomical. Plus I hate paying other people to do my work….. I’ve spent probably a good 12 hours watching different videos on folks modifying these blasters and yours is by far the most comprehensive. Thanks for making it!
You'll never be done unless you spend tens of thousands of dollars on the equipment. You could do wet blasting with a used portable diesel power washer for a few hundred bucks, check out videos on that.
This is the 5th vid ive watched on upgrades. You hit all of the pertinent points and showed upgrades i was considering. I wasnt aware of Kenametal products but wanted a better nozzle. I'll give you 5 stars... I dont often do that in a world of half ass effort.
Recently, I was given one of these Harbor Freight Sandblasters, a used 20 lb model. I've been thinking about using it, so to do that, I have to learn HOW to use it.Your video is a big help to me. Sincerely, Thank You!
Been sandblasting since the early 90s using a homemade unit out of a 30 lb propane tank, a six foot section of high pressure hose and the dead man setup less the shutoff coupled with two ball valves a short regular hose about two feet in length and some common fittings , two wheels and a standard fill off a farm fuel tank from a farm tank. It must have gone through several tons of material as i buy the standard large bag that comes i at 1200 pounds. About every year. I have also used recycled glass which cuts best but hard to find as cheep. I have blasted bulk boxes on 5 ton trucks for potatoes, dump truck and trailer boxes, loader, graders, dozers and so on. Used it with diesel industrial compressors, 5 hp uprights and for the last few years a 3 cylinder Devilbis industrial compressor. Some things i found. Your main air feed is from your shutoff to a tee under the tank to a pressure hose containing your nozzle. One ball valve connected to a half inch feeder hose from your air supply. You turn it one full always. The second ball valve supplies air into the tank. It pressurize the tank forcing product into the fast moving air already going through the hose and nozzle. It is adjusted for best flow of the product and can be opened if the product bridges in the tank. I use a 3/16 long ceramic nozzle from a reputable manufacturer as cheap ones will wear out rapidly. Easy peasy. Made some 10 pound ones for friends that they love. When you have large air volume a dryer isn't a problem, you get a blast of condensation every now and then.
Best video on sandblaster optimization. Even if the equipment is "cheap", if you know how it functions, there is almost always a way to make it better. You show us how! Well done, sir. Well done.
That thing did my head in,for most of my weekend.No wonder my freind gave me it. It's useless.What a mess! Thanks for giving me hope from the other side of the world.cheers mate
I had a HF pressure blaster a few years back and gave it away in frustration. I like your message here: get the air flowing constantly and introduce the sand in a metered fashion ready to shut the sand off instead of the air. I think I may redo my blast cabinet to follow the same principle. I've had good luck with that (generally) but my metering valve had gotten jammed a few times. I'd like to find a way to keep the air on and introduce sand from the top off a valve gravity feed. Almost like a giant spot blaster or an inverted siphon. I've got to think about this!
This video is pure gold! You did an amazing job and I am very grateful. Not many people explain it so well, and take the time to educate others selflessly. This was very generous of you. I'm impressed and very appreciative. Thank you!!! Subscribed. Sorry about your father, Edward. He must have taught you a lot.
Thanks you for your kind reply. I was thinking about this video tonight, wondering if was even relevant anymore. Your comment means more than you will know.
I hope you are able to make a full time living from TH-cam, because you deserve it. This video was incredible and saved me SO MUCH frustration. I have the 110 lb blaster. Changed the hosing to 1/2” and changed the ball valves to 1/2” and threw away that garbage tip from HF and for the kennametal. Blaster works great now. Thank you so much.
Wow! Very thorough and researched video! Thank you for all your time and effort in sharing this knowledge. I'm just looking into buying a blaster and I think the best decision I've made so far is watching and learning from you, before I buy.
Thank you very much! You worked hard on this video to our benefit. I probably have over 100 hours on the same sandblaster. I wish I’d had all of your points when I started with it. I bought this HF sand blaster six or seven years ago. I’ve gone through an evolution of tips, media, and better compressors. My point to guys just getting started with their man cave, would be to purchase or otherwise get their hands on the biggest compressor possible. Even if you have to spend $300 to get a big used or new compressor, it will pay for itself in your enjoyment of your tools over and over again. It takes this sandblaster to a new level.
This is my favorite video of all times! I am also a modifier of all things. And to do that and achieve anything good means you have to just plain "understand" what it is that is lacking or not. And with different people on different subjects the level of understanding needed will vary. So you gotta push from every angle to get those moments where your like ahah! See!!! And then you can begin to make the improvements necessary(or try)..... Man i am IMPRESSED. With your video, your knowledge, your level of devotion to understanding things fully, your helping of others, your humor, your admittance of guilt, failure, frustration, all real life shiznit!!! Way to go man, bravo! Liked, subscribed, commented, and learned a lot from you and your efforts... ...lastly, do you or have you ever raced? Anything? I don't care if it's lawnmower racing... if not, i just gotta say, your the type that gets it performing as it should, better than everyone else, or at least damn close!! Your a winner🏆 . This is how you win!!
I just upgraded my compressor from a 2hp 20gal to a 5hp 60gal and was trying to figure out what to do with the old compressor, I hadn't even thought of running them in tandem for more CFM. Thanks for the tip, and the other tip about the tips!
Excellent video my friend last night bought the 40 lb harbor freight sandblaster. We got err all hooked up went to sandblaster trailer like you had and the first thing that happened was it clogged moment we turned on the valve so I'm glad to see this video. I just sent it to my buddy and said this is what we need to do so hopefully he'll do that by tomorrow thanks for your video it's very thorough appreciate it much.
The middle finger says it all!! To summarize your video....keep the HF tank, throw out the rest of the HF crap, rebuild the ENTIRE set-up after several trips through your local plumbing supply and amazon! I like the explanations along the way, thanks for the video!
Yup. Pretty much! lol! Filming the one finger salute was one of the funnest parts of making the video. I think I got it on one take. So much emotion. So much frustration. Cinematic tour de force! :)
Hi Ron from me in the uk ! About a year or so ago I started getting interested in shot blasting for some of my ‘projects’. I ended up buying the shot blasters bible , Blast off 2, from Clemco industries . It’s only a booklet really (169 pages) but packed full of knowledge and data . I’m hooked! But the reason I’m commenting is to say imho you have explained the basics of the subject really well with down to earth practical advice in a very short time ! Aimed at the diy novice !…. It’s a fascinating subject you can blast just about anything utilising different media’s from recycled foam to steel shot (with walnut shells being very popular!) anyway, hats off great vids!
Thanks for sharing your unvarnished opinions. I have never used a sandblaster before, but am considering buying the HF model. Now I know some of the pitfalls to avoid, and also how to turbocharge the underperforming stock model into a serviceable unit.
Gday Ron, Thank you mate for taking the time to make and post this very informative video. I’ve just purchased a similar set up here in Australia that I’m sure comes out the same factory in China. I’ve also purchased a Pilot Brand 48cfm compressor with a 300 litre or 80 gallon holding tank, second hand. It has a full service history and has been serviced every 6 months. Takes 2 minutes to pump up two 100psi and has a max of 160psi. I’m looking to order those Kennametal 1/4 inch tips tonight. Along with larger pipe and fittings soon too. I buy, restore, resell skid steers here as a hobby that’s slowly turning into a small business. This Sir was priceless to me. I can’t thank you enough for all that hard found knowledge you have passed on. It’s very very much appreciated and I definitely owe you a beer! Thank you, Cheers, Nigel 👍👍🍻
Welp... you just saved me money. I was all set (tomorrow morning) to go buy the Harbor Freight 110lb sandblaster. I knew that a little pancake compressor was probably too small so I got a larger 8 gallon Goodyear compressor on sale at Walmart. But after watching your video (and the D3Sshooter video you linked) I see that the CFM (approx 3CFM) of my compressor is woefully inadequate for removing thick whitewash from an old rock wall. Thanks for posting this informative video.
Thanks for sharing, I just bought the 110# blaster and found it almost useless. I knew I was going to have to modify it, and this info will make it really simple!
Good thanks that you mentioned the first video too. One thing about panel warping. In different videos from Dustless blasting they say it does warp because of heating up ..... my experience is totally the opposit. A panel being blasted with a temp increas of a few degrees might, if any, barely warp and when cooling off should bend back but they don’t. Cars don’t bend when sitting in the sun either 🤣. The reason is that even in my wet blast cabinett I can warp a panel when hitting under 90degrees because the media „hammers“ the surface and stretches one side so it starts bending. Blasting the back side of the same panel will „bend“ it back to some degree but never exactly the same. One improvement is hitting the panel at an angle (eg. 45 degrees) which scratches more than hammering. Greetings Bernhard
I'm in the same camp as you, thinking it's the shot peening/hammering more than the heating. Good to know your experience with wet sanding. I also should have said in the video, but maybe forgot too, the medium grit really exacerbates it compared to the fine grit. Good to know the 45 degree angle suggestion. Thanks!
About the grit, I only use very fine media because I am restoring a V12 engine and there are so many different materials used that I don’t want to seriously damage the surface (brass, aluminium ....). In my dry blast box I use crushed glass or for Cerakoting aluminium oxyde (more expensive) and in my wet blaster glass beads (very fine too) which shines the surface nicely. Also a (dry) blasted steel surface with very fine media is quickly polished up with a wire wheel better than any wet blaster can and when degreased can be nickelplated for corrosion protection almost like chrome. Bernhard
@@ronstuff6330 My email: bernhardlist@hotmail.com (if you want some pix) The engine is completely taken apart and waiting to be cleaned and modified piece by piece and collected in marked boxes for assembly. This is the same with the front halve of the car. The car is closer to reassembly than the engine. If the weather improves I can finish up the parts, many of them need Cerakoting, powdercoating or Nickel-Plating. Actually I think I did open a TH-cam Channel before but at the moment I would need a good camera first.
Thanks,this was helpful. I have several projects in mind, and I have the blaster but my compressor is too small. This answered several questions for me, and I think saved me money and frustration.
Thank you so much. Well, looks like I’m gonna be bringing out the wire brush and grinder as my 4.6 CFM air compressor from Lowe’s is clearly holding me back.
thank you so much for this video .. this is realy helpfull .. it was hard to find exact information about how big the compressor should be .. this is excellent information
They should show this video in entry level fluid mechanics classes, I have yet to see a better explanation of streamlines and particle interaction. Very good video sir.
Supper good video,I just bought this hf 20 lb blaster and am experiencing the same poor performance.Tomorrow I will start modifying it.Great information.
yes... giggity!!! (Just don't exceed the max psi either tank- usually the cutoff valve of the lesser compressor will pop open- but not always so be careful )
Best video on entry level sandblasters. Wow!!! I’m trying to find a used pot since I’ll be upgrading everything else. Ingenious how you hooked 3 air compressors to make up the CFMs. I currently have a husky 60 gallon 220volt air compressor that should put me mid CFMs, for a truck frame I want to blast.
Great video analysis! I have the larger version, but the same flow issue at the bottom of the pot. I managed to complete a project with it, but struggled immensely. I thought I narrowed it down to the pressure in the pot trying to funnel itself through the sand and no media coming through (I would shake the pot and it would blast again) so I decided I was going to de-pressurize the pot.....thought, I was so frustrated, I stopped using the blaster. I'm now re-energized with new information and maybe retrofit the blaster to address the shortcomings. When the blaster works, it's a blast! lol! BTW, I used soda blasting, switched to slag, but made no difference in the clogging department.
Thanks for writing. Good luck. I would add- I added a lot of stuff for what I did. Don't follow it bit for bit, but look at your problem areas and address as needed. If things don't work for you, let me know.
This Fu#$ng video got me late for work; But I have to tell you that is no doubt one of the best commplet videos full of information (sometimes we blame the equipment but 99% of the time is the dumb- ass who wants to use it) Now I know for sure that my project will be a success. Thanks..!
One of the most comprehensive vids ive seen on the subject and not wondering off into personal sidebar conversations. I like the info on the Kennametal tips and may go with that tip. I did have a question as to whether you bushed bottom bung hole fitting from 3/8"---1/2" or did you open the bung up to 1/2" by drilling and retapping???
@@ronstuff6330 ok, I converters my hf blast cabinet to run a larger 3/4" hose outta the bottom of the collection hopper to the blas gun and have seen a few vids where guys have done the same with the bottom hole on pressure pot but we're met with arguments that it could compromise the integrity of the tank. I am taking all things I've learned and building my custom version in the near future. TY for your contributions...😉👍
many years ago i bought a 120 pond power fist sand blaster like this one, the only stuff that worked ok with it was a silica sand, but it was sso fine you couldnt cut rust and paint of a tire rim, or body metal.. not sure what it good for, i went to a black beuty and it was always plunging up in the bottom mixing valve, i tried other mediums but was always a huge problem, and i have a 120 gallon tank with a 6hp motor with a 2 stage comprser as i am a welder and need lots of air, 28cfm. at 175 psi. i watched all these mod videos but was never happy with it, after trying them mods i gave up and in the scrap pile it went. i must have sat out there for over 10 years, keep in mind all the valves on it were not brass, they were all black hardened steel valves. one day when i broke 2 ribs from one of my many steers. i could hardly move, never mind breath, this lasted a good 4 months. half way though this time i was beyond board out of my mind. i dug the sand blaster out of my huge scrap pile with the help of my boom truck. i started looking at the mods i had made that never really fixed the problems, i took it all a part. i cut the fitting out of the bottom of the tank. and welded in a 1" weld on NPT coupling. USED 1" TEE 1" SHORT PIPE NIPPLE . i put a 1" hose on that i had laying around. i was thinking back to my young days at Can car as a sand blaster on the hopper car rail line, this hopper cars were built there, and i recall how the blast units were built, and used a 2" blast hose, if you got shoot in the arm, the ass, leg, man you knew you were hit. i bushed the other end of the 1" tee down to 3/4" NPT. I REPLACED THE WATER separator, even tho i have an air drier in the main feed off the compressor.. WITH ONE I HAD KICKING AROUND THAT HAS 3/4" NPT. MY COMPRESSOR HAS 1" NPT hook up, but i set it up with 3/4" npt blocks, 1/2" blocks, 3/8" air blocks. i supplied the sand blaster with a 3/4" air line, and built my own tip/s in a small scale to the kind that i used at Can car. using a steel union for tip replacement and size. i been able to run any medeim i want though it, well taking count of metal thickness, as it will blow though light metal.. problem is, the tank to small.
Well you saved the day with this video, I thought great another harbor freight POS. It worked then it didn’t then it did then didn’t, I would turn it on and it would just pour sand out the tip I mean pour out, a big huge waste, I spent more time unclogging it then I did blasting. Looks like a trip to Lowe’s is going to help and an order of good tips. THANKS
Good to hear Ron. I'd check out my other video and master those things first before spending too much money on the sandblaster, and then upgrade if necessary. If you have about 10 cfms, I probably wouldn't bother too much with this stuff, but as you go higher in cfms 20+ the 1/2 lines and such really start to shine. Just trying to save you a buck or two depending on what you've got setupwise. At very least, making a new lower valve makes cleaning it out soooo much easier. Whatever works. Good luck! have fun.
@@ronstuff6330 well I did order the new tip 5/32. I’m running 14 cfm. And I will change line to tank and at the bottom, just makes since. Air feeding tank I can leave.
Ron where did you find the 1/2” hose from valve to bottom of tank?, also just received my new tip, dam it’s huge, did you run an adapter from tip to hose?
Like I said I bought the tip but the thread size is 1” no way does it fit in the hose, did I order the wrong one or should I just reduce down to fit hose?
Thank you, thank you, thank you! You just earned my subscription. I had converted my harbor freight sand blaster into an oil vacuum tank. Now I will go get the larger one and make these modifications. The funny think is I started with a great compressor and I new that was not the problem. Thank you for putting together all this information in one location.
thanks for the information. I'm getting that sandblaster I have a 6hp compressor that does like 6.8 cfm. but I have access to a bigger compressor that has a gas engine on it. Now I know what to expect. I think I will be ok using my smaller compressor but if I get impatient or have a bigger project then I'm going to take it to work. I also have access to tons of sand, but it will probably need to be screened or something but I will get to that when I get to that hopefully I can use it.
Hi Ron. Excellent video and it has helped me a lot. I have an idea to help you..... why don't you get one of those $20 amazon wet blasting attachments for your pressure washer and see if you can send pressurized sand through your pressure washer attachment. They seem to have similar issues as a regular sand blaster and I wonder if pressurizing the sand into the tip as opposed to syphon feeding would work. It could be something amazing and you seem like just the mad man to try it.
Great video, thanks for the info, I'm an old hat at cheep sandblasters.. And I know it takes a lot of cfls to keep up...you brought a few thoughts to lite, that I will use, thanks again.
16:30 You didn't touch on, but the narrowing diameter of the air flow increases velocity. The shallow angle allows the airflow to accelerate more smoothly, giving the abrasive more time to accelerate, too.
This was a tremendous help. I am having issues with this exact blaster and was ready to return it. Now I will get the other pieces and give it a shot again. How do I know what CFM my compressor is capable of putting out? I was thinking of connecting two compressors into a single feed since I have two of them. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for all this knowledge! I do not know anything about this but I want to! I got a DIY back porsche project, and now I know I need 3 air compressors hahaha and a monster/frankestein valve mix that I do not know how to assamble. Thank you!
Excellent upgrade video Ron! I can now bring my POS sand blaster to life. Do you have the parts list for the connections coming in to the blaster? I got the parts list for the bottom from the link you provided.
I found with sand blasting it has more to due with size of Hoses and tubing from Tank to Sand blaster nozzle. Small 1/4 lines restrict air flow like a Resistor in a electrical circuit any part of those hoses being restricted will slow the sand and air from doing a good job. CFM is a factor but that is more of quanity of air and the time, by opening up the hoses bigger your CFM will have to be higher because your air will beused at a higher rate, but you will get more surfaced cleaned quicker.
On hose yes small hose will effect the cfm. But like the fittings going in 1/4 will pass 120 cfm at 100 pounds. The size hose depends on ft you are running. Hose and pipe ratings for air flow rate is at 100ft. For fittings is nozzle flow rate. Even a 1/4 inch air pipe at a couple ft long will pass 120 cfm at 100psi.
Thank you for all the information. I’ve been wasting time with my previous attempts but didn’t want to brake the bank. I have everything pieced together to your specs except the Kennemetal tips. I bought 3 tips from Amazon to use as needed according to my location. What adapters are you using between the hose and the tip. Thanks again!
ebay has the tip+ tip holder. The tip holder will thread into regular pipe threaded stuff which will fit into the hose. Good luck. Here is a sample link. www.ebay.com/itm/224954686724?hash=item3460581d04:g:2gwAAOSwD1JiZXps
Thank you very much for the info,I'm sure you have saved many guys alot of frustration,I bought a commercial rig years ago,it has a dedicated 4 cylinder ford motor with a huge compressor and 60/80 gallon pot mounted on a 1/1/2 ton truck big hoses etc but the motor needs rebuilding so instead of waisting my $ on more agggggravation that includes my x girlfriend she was beautiful but worthless,,I'll spend my $ on fixing my commercial unit and my yellow lab...thanx again
With a 10cfm air flow cutting sand flow at bottom will allow you to blast for a few min. But air will get so hot you will start getting moisture in you air flow. tractor supply coal slag media is what i use most of the time and it cuts fast and deep. On thin metal you want a different media. Heck tractor supply is 12 dollars 50 pound bag. Harbor freight media is 40 dollars a bag. Some things i use play sand that i pour in 55 gal drum build fire under drum to dry out all moisture. Then let it cool and use it. I bought the harbor fright 110 pound blaster because i needed it that day. Sold my other one, if you got a old water tank they are easy to build. My other one held couple hundred pound sand and was a real blaster it would keep my 160cfm diesel compressor busy. But at my age the little 110 pound is all i need.
1.A good video on the "sandblaster trap" th-cam.com/video/KFgA0n3Vr68/w-d-xo.html
2. The website/link to the "evinflo" comment actually referred to an "Evintho" license plate, and I finally found it!!!! www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=207210
Also, consider getting a 4 way "T" like I did instead of the 3 way T as shown in the link, for easier cleaning.
Also, I provided a number of alternate links/info in the comments section under different youtuber's comments. These modifications are a suggestion of "one way" to do it, but by no means are they the only way. At lower CFMs, you might decide to not even change anything, it is all predicated on your individual needs. Also, I would recommend multiple air dryers in line if moisture is an issue.
3. In the video, I have a bleed off valve for air for the helmet. After using it, I would recommend against it. Not healthy, use a separate air source.
4. People have asked about soda blasting. I haven't tried soda blasting yet. I would recommend doing searches for soda blasting / alternative media for more info.
Thanks Ron much appreciated.
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I have $15,000 worth of professional sandblasters, and it looks like I"m not the first to say that this guy knows his stuff. I only watched this video for 5 minutes toward the end. From what I saw, he essentially described what makes those expensive blasters work on a professional level. You obviously won't win the Indy 500 driving a Volkswagen, but then again you really don't need a Formula 1 car to make a beer run.
It is not often that one comes across a professional with a doctorate in sandblastology.
So much valuable knowledge in this very thorough video, I am grateful. Cheers
You saved me about $600 between a new, albeit underpowered air compressor, the sand blaster itself, and supplies. Now I know not to even bother until I can afford a proper compressor. Thank you! You’ve saved a lot of people time and money with your help
I did exactly what he warned about. Bought second hand comp. blast cabinet with foot peddle and blast pot. Traveled miles with my trailer to collect it all. Turns out the guy was selling 'cause it was not up to snuff. Wasted a ton of money and still don't have a good set-up!
Probably the most useful sand blasting video available and it was under 30 minutes long. Absolutely amazing video.
Thanks.
This video is extremely underrated. Thank you for pointing out all the valuable information. Just ordered my sandblaster and will upgrade it to 1/2 inch piping. My 28 cfm gasoline compressor will make short work of every project!! Thanks again you are a legend!
I own an old steel boat (1949 built) and the cost to get it commercially blasted is astronomical. Plus I hate paying other people to do my work….. I’ve spent probably a good 12 hours watching different videos on folks modifying these blasters and yours is by far the most comprehensive. Thanks for making it!
You'll never be done unless you spend tens of thousands of dollars on the equipment.
You could do wet blasting with a used portable diesel power washer for a few hundred bucks, check out videos on that.
I know its alot of work and time but Please make more videos you dont find this type of quality on TH-cam. You did a great job and helped me alot !
Thanks!
This is the 5th vid ive watched on upgrades. You hit all of the pertinent points and showed upgrades i was considering. I wasnt aware of Kenametal products but wanted a better nozzle. I'll give you 5 stars...
I dont often do that in a world of half ass effort.
I was 2 years late when I watched it today. I've slend sooo much then I saw this video. Maraming Salamat Ron from the bottom of my heart and pocket.
Recently, I was given one of these Harbor Freight Sandblasters, a used 20 lb model. I've been thinking about using it, so to do that, I have to learn HOW to use it.Your video is a big help to me. Sincerely, Thank You!
Been sandblasting since the early 90s using a homemade unit out of a 30 lb propane tank, a six foot section of high pressure hose and the dead man setup less the shutoff coupled with two ball valves a short regular hose about two feet in length and some common fittings , two wheels and a standard fill off a farm fuel tank from a farm tank. It must have gone through several tons of material as i buy the standard large bag that comes i at 1200 pounds. About every year. I have also used recycled glass which cuts best but hard to find as cheep. I have blasted bulk boxes on 5 ton trucks for potatoes, dump truck and trailer boxes, loader, graders, dozers and so on. Used it with diesel industrial compressors, 5 hp uprights and for the last few years a 3 cylinder Devilbis industrial compressor. Some things i found. Your main air feed is from your shutoff to a tee under the tank to a pressure hose containing your nozzle. One ball valve connected to a half inch feeder hose from your air supply. You turn it one full always. The second ball valve supplies air into the tank. It pressurize the tank forcing product into the fast moving air already going through the hose and nozzle. It is adjusted for best flow of the product and can be opened if the product bridges in the tank. I use a 3/16 long ceramic nozzle from a reputable manufacturer as cheap ones will wear out rapidly. Easy peasy. Made some 10 pound ones for friends that they love. When you have large air volume a dryer isn't a problem, you get a blast of condensation every now and then.
Best video on sandblaster optimization. Even if the equipment is "cheap", if you know how it functions, there is almost always a way to make it better. You show us how! Well done, sir. Well done.
Thanks! After a hard day at work, these comments mean a lot. I'm gonna fire it up this weekend and blast some stuff! Spring cleaning time is here! :)
That thing did my head in,for most of my weekend.No wonder my freind gave me it. It's useless.What a mess! Thanks for giving me hope from the other side of the world.cheers mate
This was probably one of the best videos I have watched in a while thank you for making it very helpful
I had a HF pressure blaster a few years back and gave it away in frustration. I like your message here: get the air flowing constantly and introduce the sand in a metered fashion ready to shut the sand off instead of the air. I think I may redo my blast cabinet to follow the same principle. I've had good luck with that (generally) but my metering valve had gotten jammed a few times. I'd like to find a way to keep the air on and introduce sand from the top off a valve gravity feed. Almost like a giant spot blaster or an inverted siphon. I've got to think about this!
I’ve thought of hooking up multiple air compressors to one output. Never had the guts to try it though. Cool to know it works.
This video is pure gold! You did an amazing job and I am very grateful. Not many people explain it so well, and take the time to educate others selflessly. This was very generous of you. I'm impressed and very appreciative. Thank you!!! Subscribed.
Sorry about your father, Edward. He must have taught you a lot.
Thanks you for your kind reply. I was thinking about this video tonight, wondering if was even relevant anymore. Your comment means more than you will know.
Thank you Aaron Rodger’s for the video!
When you think you're alone and u find exactly what you're looking for. Thank you Ron!
Thank you!
I hope you are able to make a full time living from TH-cam, because you deserve it. This video was incredible and saved me SO MUCH frustration. I have the 110 lb blaster. Changed the hosing to 1/2” and changed the ball valves to 1/2” and threw away that garbage tip from HF and for the kennametal. Blaster works great now. Thank you so much.
Where would I get the right parts for the HF 110lbs to make it better thanks
Wow! Very thorough and researched video! Thank you for all your time and effort in sharing this knowledge. I'm just looking into buying a blaster and I think the best decision I've made so far is watching and learning from you, before I buy.
Thank you very much! You worked hard on this video to our benefit. I probably have over 100 hours on the same sandblaster. I wish I’d had all of your points when I started with it. I bought this HF sand blaster six or seven years ago. I’ve gone through an evolution of tips, media, and better compressors. My point to guys just getting started with their man cave, would be to purchase or otherwise get their hands on the biggest compressor possible. Even if you have to spend $300 to get a big used or new compressor, it will pay for itself in your enjoyment of your tools over and over again. It takes this sandblaster to a new level.
This is my favorite video of all times! I am also a modifier of all things. And to do that and achieve anything good means you have to just plain "understand" what it is that is lacking or not. And with different people on different subjects the level of understanding needed will vary. So you gotta push from every angle to get those moments where your like ahah! See!!! And then you can begin to make the improvements necessary(or try)..... Man i am IMPRESSED. With your video, your knowledge, your level of devotion to understanding things fully, your helping of others, your humor, your admittance of guilt, failure, frustration, all real life shiznit!!! Way to go man, bravo! Liked, subscribed, commented, and learned a lot from you and your efforts... ...lastly, do you or have you ever raced? Anything? I don't care if it's lawnmower racing... if not, i just gotta say, your the type that gets it performing as it should, better than everyone else, or at least damn close!! Your a winner🏆 . This is how you win!!
I just upgraded my compressor from a 2hp 20gal to a 5hp 60gal and was trying to figure out what to do with the old compressor, I hadn't even thought of running them in tandem for more CFM. Thanks for the tip, and the other tip about the tips!
Good luck!
Excellent video my friend last night bought the 40 lb harbor freight sandblaster. We got err all hooked up went to sandblaster trailer like you had and the first thing that happened was it clogged moment we turned on the valve so I'm glad to see this video. I just sent it to my buddy and said this is what we need to do so hopefully he'll do that by tomorrow thanks for your video it's very thorough appreciate it much.
Good luck!
Well,I had to watch this video over and over to take it all in. So comprehensive and full of keen advise . Cheers!
The middle finger says it all!!
To summarize your video....keep the HF tank, throw out the rest of the HF crap, rebuild the ENTIRE set-up after several trips through your local plumbing supply and amazon!
I like the explanations along the way, thanks for the video!
Yup. Pretty much! lol! Filming the one finger salute was one of the funnest parts of making the video. I think I got it on one take. So much emotion. So much frustration. Cinematic tour de force!
:)
Hi Ron from me in the uk ! About a year or so ago I started getting interested in shot blasting for some of my ‘projects’. I ended up buying the shot blasters bible , Blast off 2, from Clemco industries . It’s only a booklet really (169 pages) but packed full of knowledge and data . I’m hooked! But the reason I’m commenting is to say imho you have explained the basics of the subject really well with down to earth practical advice in a very short time ! Aimed at the diy novice !…. It’s a fascinating subject you can blast just about anything utilising different media’s from recycled foam to steel shot (with walnut shells being very popular!) anyway, hats off great vids!
This is the single most informative video on sandblasting ive found! Thank you for putting this out there!
Thanks for sharing your unvarnished opinions. I have never used a sandblaster before, but am considering buying the HF model. Now I know some of the pitfalls to avoid, and also how to turbocharge the underperforming stock model into a serviceable unit.
Gday Ron,
Thank you mate for taking the time to make and post this very informative video. I’ve just purchased a similar set up here in Australia that I’m sure comes out the same factory in China.
I’ve also purchased a Pilot Brand 48cfm compressor with a 300 litre or 80 gallon holding tank, second hand. It has a full service history and has been serviced every 6 months. Takes 2 minutes to pump up two 100psi and has a max of 160psi. I’m looking to order those Kennametal 1/4 inch tips tonight. Along with larger pipe and fittings soon too.
I buy, restore, resell skid steers here as a hobby that’s slowly turning into a small business. This Sir was priceless to me.
I can’t thank you enough for all that hard found knowledge you have passed on. It’s very very much appreciated and I definitely owe you a beer!
Thank you,
Cheers, Nigel 👍👍🍻
Welp... you just saved me money. I was all set (tomorrow morning) to go buy the Harbor Freight 110lb sandblaster. I knew that a little pancake compressor was probably too small so I got a larger 8 gallon Goodyear compressor on sale at Walmart. But after watching your video (and the D3Sshooter video you linked) I see that the CFM (approx 3CFM) of my compressor is woefully inadequate for removing thick whitewash from an old rock wall. Thanks for posting this informative video.
Thank you for this video. It made me realise I have no interest in sandblasting steel. It’s one job I’ll definitely be outsourcing!
I think outsourcing it is a good idea for a lot of people. Thanks for writing.
Your video is the most comprehensive out there. Thanks. I’ve liked and subscribed.
This video is GOLD , so much info and knowledge Thank you ! Im buyin a 20lb unit later today
I agree! Best video in a long long time. Thank you again!!
This is a great video I hope you get more views because it was by far the most helpful sandblasting video on TH-cam!
Thanks!
Thanks for sharing, I just bought the 110# blaster and found it almost useless. I knew I was going to have to modify it, and this info will make it really simple!
Good thanks that you mentioned the first video too.
One thing about panel warping. In different videos from Dustless blasting they say it does warp because of heating up ..... my experience is totally the opposit. A panel being blasted with a temp increas of a few degrees might, if any, barely warp and when cooling off should bend back but they don’t. Cars don’t bend when sitting in the sun either 🤣. The reason is that even in my wet blast cabinett I can warp a panel when hitting under 90degrees because the media „hammers“ the surface and stretches one side so it starts bending. Blasting the back side of the same panel will „bend“ it back to some degree but never exactly the same. One improvement is hitting the panel at an angle (eg. 45 degrees) which scratches more than hammering.
Greetings Bernhard
I'm in the same camp as you, thinking it's the shot peening/hammering more than the heating. Good to know your experience with wet sanding. I also should have said in the video, but maybe forgot too, the medium grit really exacerbates it compared to the fine grit. Good to know the 45 degree angle suggestion. Thanks!
About the grit, I only use very fine media because I am restoring a V12 engine and there are so many different materials used that I don’t want to seriously damage the surface (brass, aluminium ....). In my dry blast box I use crushed glass or for Cerakoting aluminium oxyde (more expensive) and in my wet blaster glass beads (very fine too) which shines the surface nicely.
Also a (dry) blasted steel surface with very fine media is quickly polished up with a wire wheel better than any wet blaster can and when degreased can be nickelplated for corrosion protection almost like chrome.
Bernhard
@@bernhardlist9359 V12. Nice. You realize- We're going to need to see videos of this.
@@ronstuff6330
My email: bernhardlist@hotmail.com (if you want some pix)
The engine is completely taken apart and waiting to be cleaned and modified piece by piece and collected in marked boxes for assembly.
This is the same with the front halve of the car. The car is closer to reassembly than the engine.
If the weather improves I can finish up the parts, many of them need Cerakoting, powdercoating or Nickel-Plating.
Actually I think I did open a TH-cam Channel before but at the moment I would need a good camera first.
your video was everything it needed to know very concise, and well put together. thank you
Thanks!
Thanks for the tips didn't realize the cfms needed for these to work well. Nice stobie tag
This video could be The Atlas of Sandblasting with economic sandblasters!, thanks for posting!…👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Damn straight. "Atlas" I like that!!!! :)
Fantastic video, this helped me decide what to get and what to expect!
Thanks,this was helpful. I have several projects in mind, and I have the blaster but my compressor is too small. This answered several questions for me, and I think saved me money and frustration.
Thanks for passing along your accumulated knowledge. It really will help me with my HF sandblaster.
Thank you so much. Well, looks like I’m gonna be bringing out the wire brush and grinder as my 4.6 CFM air compressor from Lowe’s is clearly holding me back.
thank you so much for this video .. this is realy helpfull ..
it was hard to find exact information about how big the compressor should be .. this is excellent information
They should show this video in entry level fluid mechanics classes, I have yet to see a better explanation of streamlines and particle interaction. Very good video sir.
Supper good video,I just bought this hf 20 lb blaster and am experiencing the same poor performance.Tomorrow I will start modifying it.Great information.
Can you combine different compressors with different psi?
yes... giggity!!! (Just don't exceed the max psi either tank- usually the cutoff valve of the lesser compressor will pop open- but not always so be careful
)
@@ronstuff6330 awesome, thank you
Best video on entry level sandblasters. Wow!!! I’m trying to find a used pot since I’ll be upgrading everything else. Ingenious how you hooked 3 air compressors to make up the CFMs. I currently have a husky 60 gallon 220volt air compressor that should put me mid CFMs, for a truck frame I want to blast.
Great video analysis! I have the larger version, but the same flow issue at the bottom of the pot. I managed to complete a project with it, but struggled immensely. I thought I narrowed it down to the pressure in the pot trying to funnel itself through the sand and no media coming through (I would shake the pot and it would blast again) so I decided I was going to de-pressurize the pot.....thought, I was so frustrated, I stopped using the blaster. I'm now re-energized with new information and maybe retrofit the blaster to address the shortcomings. When the blaster works, it's a blast! lol!
BTW, I used soda blasting, switched to slag, but made no difference in the clogging department.
Thanks for writing. Good luck. I would add- I added a lot of stuff for what I did. Don't follow it bit for bit, but look at your problem areas and address as needed. If things don't work for you, let me know.
Man that's like a big block blaster now! Thanks for the hilarious and yet informative vid! *Enjoyed the acting
This video was so comprehensive.
Thank you very much.
This Fu#$ng video got me late for work;
But I have to tell you that is no doubt one of the best commplet videos full of information (sometimes we blame the equipment but 99% of the time is the dumb- ass who wants to use it)
Now I know for sure that my project will be a success.
Thanks..!
LOL! That's the truth! Good luck!
Top notch video!
You did a great job with this video lots of very helpful info and a good job explaining what you did and how you did it thank so much
Thank you so much for your video. You answered a lot of questions i had about if my air compressor could handle sand blasting.
Perfect. Exactly the information i needed.
Great informative video. Great job!
One of the most comprehensive vids ive seen on the subject and not wondering off into personal sidebar conversations. I like the info on the Kennametal tips and may go with that tip.
I did have a question as to whether you bushed bottom bung hole fitting from 3/8"---1/2" or did you open the bung up to 1/2" by drilling and retapping???
Thanks. If you mean the bottom hole in the tank, I kept that stock. It let's plenty of sand through.
@@ronstuff6330 ok, I converters my hf blast cabinet to run a larger 3/4" hose outta the bottom of the collection hopper to the blas gun and have seen a few vids where guys have done the same with the bottom hole on pressure pot but we're met with arguments that it could compromise the integrity of the tank. I am taking all things I've learned and building my custom version in the near future. TY for your contributions...😉👍
Haha at 10:28. Don't be shy, tell us how you REALLY feel. Very good vid to go from junk to functional. Thanks.
Thank you Ron, awesome video. Question, would this same pot, "with your upgrades" work with soda media?
I'm sure it would, although I haven't tried it. Good luck.
many years ago i bought a 120 pond power fist sand blaster like this one, the only stuff that worked ok with it was a silica sand, but it was sso fine you couldnt cut rust and paint of a tire rim, or body metal.. not sure what it good for, i went to a black beuty and it was always plunging up in the bottom mixing valve, i tried other mediums but was always a huge problem, and i have a 120 gallon tank with a 6hp motor with a 2 stage comprser as i am a welder and need lots of air, 28cfm. at 175 psi. i watched all these mod videos but was never happy with it, after trying them mods i gave up and in the scrap pile it went. i must have sat out there for over 10 years, keep in mind all the valves on it were not brass, they were all black hardened steel valves. one day when i broke 2 ribs from one of my many steers. i could hardly move, never mind breath, this lasted a good 4 months. half way though this time i was beyond board out of my mind. i dug the sand blaster out of my huge scrap pile with the help of my boom truck. i started looking at the mods i had made that never really fixed the problems, i took it all a part. i cut the fitting out of the bottom of the tank. and welded in a 1" weld on NPT coupling. USED 1" TEE 1" SHORT PIPE NIPPLE . i put a 1" hose on that i had laying around. i was thinking back to my young days at Can car as a sand blaster on the hopper car rail line, this hopper cars were built there, and i recall how the blast units were built, and used a 2" blast hose, if you got shoot in the arm, the ass, leg, man you knew you were hit. i bushed the other end of the 1" tee down to 3/4" NPT. I REPLACED THE WATER separator, even tho i have an air drier in the main feed off the compressor.. WITH ONE I HAD KICKING AROUND THAT HAS 3/4" NPT. MY COMPRESSOR HAS 1" NPT hook up, but i set it up with 3/4" npt blocks, 1/2" blocks, 3/8" air blocks. i supplied the sand blaster with a 3/4" air line, and built my own tip/s in a small scale to the kind that i used at Can car. using a steel union for tip replacement and size. i been able to run any medeim i want though it, well taking count of metal thickness, as it will blow though light metal.. problem is, the tank to small.
Fantastic video, very thorough and informative
Thanks!
Well you saved the day with this video, I thought great another harbor freight POS. It worked then it didn’t then it did then didn’t, I would turn it on and it would just pour sand out the tip I mean pour out, a big huge waste, I spent more time unclogging it then I did blasting. Looks like a trip to Lowe’s is going to help and an order of good tips. THANKS
Good to hear Ron. I'd check out my other video and master those things first before spending too much money on the sandblaster, and then upgrade if necessary. If you have about 10 cfms, I probably wouldn't bother too much with this stuff, but as you go higher in cfms 20+ the 1/2 lines and such really start to shine. Just trying to save you a buck or two depending on what you've got setupwise. At very least, making a new lower valve makes cleaning it out soooo much easier. Whatever works. Good luck! have fun.
@@ronstuff6330 well I did order the new tip 5/32. I’m running 14 cfm. And I will change line to tank and at the bottom, just makes since. Air feeding tank I can leave.
Good luck. You should be good.
Ron where did you find the 1/2” hose from valve to bottom of tank?, also just received my new tip, dam it’s huge, did you run an adapter from tip to hose?
Like I said I bought the tip but the thread size is 1” no way does it fit in the hose, did I order the wrong one or should I just reduce down to fit hose?
Very helpful video with all the information from good to bad I truly appreciate ur video Sir!💪🏽
Can you tell me how you connected that chip to the Harbor Freight Tools should I just buy a tip that is already connected to the valve
Hey thanks for your time you put in to this video. Very helpful
GREAT Video I was struggling with my sandblaster. I am going to do the changes and will work perfect. And it all makes perfect sense Thank You
This is the video with the information i've been looking for for months. Why do high cfm compressors have to be so much!!
excellent question :) wish they weren't!
Great video! Please do more like this! Would love to see a video like yours on paint guns.
Thank you, thank you, thank you! You just earned my subscription. I had converted my harbor freight sand blaster into an oil vacuum tank. Now I will go get the larger one and make these modifications. The funny think is I started with a great compressor and I new that was not the problem. Thank you for putting together all this information in one location.
thanks for the information. I'm getting that sandblaster I have a 6hp compressor that does like 6.8 cfm. but I have access to a bigger compressor that has a gas engine on it. Now I know what to expect. I think I will be ok using my smaller compressor but if I get impatient or have a bigger project then I'm going to take it to work. I also have access to tons of sand, but it will probably need to be screened or something but I will get to that when I get to that hopefully I can use it.
good luck! It's nice to have a gas powered option!
Hi Ron. Excellent video and it has helped me a lot. I have an idea to help you..... why don't you get one of those $20 amazon wet blasting attachments for your pressure washer and see if you can send pressurized sand through your pressure washer attachment. They seem to have similar issues as a regular sand blaster and I wonder if pressurizing the sand into the tip as opposed to syphon feeding would work. It could be something amazing and you seem like just the mad man to try it.
The mad man concurs, that seems like a good idea. I might just try that when it gets warmer out!
Great video, thanks for the info, I'm an old hat at cheep sandblasters..
And I know it takes a lot of cfls to keep up...you brought a few thoughts to lite, that I will use, thanks again.
16:30 You didn't touch on, but the narrowing diameter of the air flow increases velocity. The shallow angle allows the airflow to accelerate more smoothly, giving the abrasive more time to accelerate, too.
For smother flow of media I hang a saw zaw on the tank with ratchet strap to agitate the unit...noticed fewer clogs at tip and better flow....FYI
Thank you for the videos helped me sort mine out here in the UK :)
Question. Is the 45 degree fitting at the bottom absolutely necessary or can you attach the 1/2 hose directly to the 4 way?
Seems like that would work fine so long as the hose doesn't get kinked. Good idea.
Great video. I'll finally be able to use my blaster without the desire to stab myself in the leg with a fork.
This was a tremendous help. I am having issues with this exact blaster and was ready to return it. Now I will get the other pieces and give it a shot again.
How do I know what CFM my compressor is capable of putting out? I was thinking of connecting two compressors into a single feed since I have two of them. Thanks for sharing!
Nicely done.....great review.
I didn’t see the link to the detailed description for the bottom connections to the tank.
Wonderful info , greatest video ever ! Thank you soooo much
Wow! Thanks. Good luck with your projects!
Amazing comprehensive information…thanks so much. Now I know what direction to take for my project…invaluable!
Thanks! Good luck with your project!
Thank you for all the info!
So do you have all 3 compressors running simultaneously or just 1 pumping 3 tanks ?
3 running at once.
Thanks for all this knowledge! I do not know anything about this but I want to!
I got a DIY back porsche project, and now I know I need 3 air compressors hahaha and a monster/frankestein valve mix that I do not know how to assamble.
Thank you!
Excellent upgrade video Ron! I can now bring my POS sand blaster to life. Do you have the parts list for the connections coming in to the blaster? I got the parts list for the bottom from the link you provided.
I found with sand blasting it has more to due with size of Hoses and tubing from Tank to Sand blaster nozzle. Small 1/4 lines restrict air flow like a Resistor in a electrical circuit any part of those hoses being restricted will slow the sand and air from doing a good job. CFM is a factor but that is more of quanity of air and the time, by opening up the hoses bigger your CFM will have to be higher because your air will beused at a higher rate, but you will get more surfaced cleaned quicker.
On hose yes small hose will effect the cfm. But like the fittings going in 1/4 will pass 120 cfm at 100 pounds. The size hose depends on ft you are running. Hose and pipe ratings for air flow rate is at 100ft. For fittings is nozzle flow rate. Even a 1/4 inch air pipe at a couple ft long will pass 120 cfm at 100psi.
great video! goes over everything i was looking for. thanks!
thanks!
Great video. Thank you for the help
Great video good tips and a time saver . Thanks for your time.
What was that site or channel you said with parts that were used ( evenflow ) ?
Thanks. It is all listed in the first comment in the comments section.
Great job
Thank you for all the information. I’ve been wasting time with my previous attempts but didn’t want to brake the bank. I have everything pieced together to your specs except the Kennemetal tips. I bought 3 tips from Amazon to use as needed according to my location. What adapters are you using between the hose and the tip. Thanks again!
ebay has the tip+ tip holder. The tip holder will thread into regular pipe threaded stuff which will fit into the hose. Good luck. Here is a sample link. www.ebay.com/itm/224954686724?hash=item3460581d04:g:2gwAAOSwD1JiZXps
Where can I find the parts list?
Thumbs up for the Dumptruck of Science alone.
Thanks Ron,,,my freebe from a friend is up and running,, Great job,, Please try soda in it. Advise your luck Stay safe
Thank you very much for the info,I'm sure you have saved many guys alot of frustration,I bought a commercial rig years ago,it has a dedicated 4 cylinder ford motor with a huge compressor and 60/80 gallon pot mounted on a 1/1/2 ton truck big hoses etc but the motor needs rebuilding so instead of waisting my $ on more agggggravation that includes my x girlfriend she was beautiful but worthless,,I'll spend my $ on fixing my commercial unit and my yellow lab...thanx again
lol about the ex! Fixing the heavy duty unit would be what I would do. good luck!
Deadman valve for blast cabinet and large nozzles. Tractor supply fine coal slag. Full air pressure adjust you media feed amount at bottom. Bingo!!!
With a 10cfm air flow cutting sand flow at bottom will allow you to blast for a few min. But air will get so hot you will start getting moisture in you air flow. tractor supply coal slag media is what i use most of the time and it cuts fast and deep. On thin metal you want a different media. Heck tractor supply is 12 dollars 50 pound bag. Harbor freight media is 40 dollars a bag. Some things i use play sand that i pour in 55 gal drum build fire under drum to dry out all moisture. Then let it cool and use it. I bought the harbor fright 110 pound blaster because i needed it that day. Sold my other one, if you got a old water tank they are easy to build. My other one held couple hundred pound sand and was a real blaster it would keep my 160cfm diesel compressor busy. But at my age the little 110 pound is all i need.