Harbor Freight - Central Pneumatic 3 Gallon Oilless Pancake Style Air Compressor Review
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 16 ต.ค. 2024
- Originally recorded March 7, 2014.
This is a review of the Harbor Freight 3 Gallon Oilless Air Compressor, Item # 60637/95275/61615. It should also apply to its close cousin, the Hot-Dog Style 3 Gallon Oilless Compressor, Item #97080/69269.
This is a great, small air compressor for the price. It comes with an ASME safety relief valve and quick-disconnect fitting, as well as tank and tool pressure gauges with regulator.
It does everything it is advertised to do, at a lower price than most of the competition. It's great for SMALL work, as it is a small compressor; don't expect to run an impact wrench gun or something of that nature with it, it simply does not have the air capacity for it. This is a great compressor for say a finish nailer, airbrush, or even for use with a blowgun to clean dust from items such as computers. It also works to fill up tires with air.
The oilless design does indeed give you lower maintenance, but the longevity of an oilless pump is not that of a compressor that uses oil (this is explained in detail in the video).
Its small size makes it easy to carry around, and it's not heavy at all. All around a great compressor for the price.
Make sure you purchase a compressor that has adequate air capacity for the work you are doing. I suggest you read the manual for this compressor before buying (available on Harbor Freight's website) to see what it is capable of running, or do a Google search for what size compressor is adequate for the work you will be doing.
Functionally operates just as it should th-cam.com/users/postUgkxiiMg_x4gIWeXMWfBnDdRnME4qJUAva4w holds pressure perfectly when not in use. Glad one of the other reviews pointed out that the bottom pressure release valve was open; thought it was defective at first.
Not when people buy them just because they are cheap, and then become disappointed when it can't run a framing nailer to build a house.
I've been using one of these compressors for the last 8 years to fill my car and bike tires (4 vehicles, 16 tires, 3 spares, and 8 bike tires). I use it at least twice a month. It still works great. I will buy another if it ever quits on me. It's easily paid for itself by now.
Mine has too for the small odd jobs where it's easier than dragging a hose from my big compressor.
How do you replace the spacers on the head of the pancake Central pheumatic compressor
I have a oilless from the 70’s or very early 80’s and it does still work! No problem with having a oil less compressor! They do last
Sure, back then they were made with quality, probably wasn't made in China either.
How do you put the air attachment on How do the attachments snap on
Hey jaykay18; I just bought the CP 3gal oilless pancake style AC a few days ago and just watched your video on this unit. Thanks, it was very instructional for a newbie like me and once I took it out of the box and followed your instructions, it worked like a champ. Thanks again.
That's great to hear, Mark! Thanks for watching!
Thank you for the review. Very helpful for a lady who just bought her first compressor.
You're very welcome Diane!
Thank you, great review. I'm looking at buying one at Harbor Freight today. The design has changed slightly from the date of your review to now 7-28-20 but still seems like a good fit for what I'm looking for, which is just blowing off stuff on my work bench in my garage etc.
Thanks very much. Yes, the design has changed slightly over the last 6 years but otherwise the same machine.
Went to HF yesterday to pick this up for auto/mower tires only. The salesman said they had had numerous returns of the pancake version and said it was a "piece of s". He talked me into getting the hotdog style which he said people were getting better results from. I took his advice and went home and put the machine through the break-in process. I ended up setting the hose regulator to 80psi. I had no trouble adding air to the tires on my late model Tahoe. So far, so good. Time will tell.
It's the same engine under the hood. You'd have the same results with either.
The blow gun impression & sound @1:33 were brilliant, made me chuckle.
Thanks very much!
Thanks for taking the time to review. It was very helpful, detailed and appreciated.
+Rupinder Matharu You're very welcome! Thanks for watching!
This answers a lot, if not all, of my questions. Thanks for this.
No problem. Any other questions, let me know.
Great review man, thank you! Exactly what I was looking for.
+Tyler Powell Thanks Tyler!
I used this for a budget onboard air setup with an additional 3gal tank under the cab on my Toyota Rock crawler. ( And air horns haha) powered with a 750 watt inverter. Works fine and regardless how long it works I figure I can treat it like a disposable Bic n replace it cause it's so cheap. Thanks for a very well detailed review. The most useful datta was on ur start up and run watts draw for those of us who want to run it on an inverter. I would like to contribute that it will run on modified wave inverter. Most cheap electric motors require a sine wave inverter. So better budget. Just need a cheap inverter and battery to power it up. ( Bout a 1000 watt is best) Dandahermit
Thanks Dan!
Thank you for the video!! You saved me a bunch of time by not having to read the manual. I'm using this air compressor to to blow dust and gun powder off my Dillon reloading press. I think it should do the job nicely.
No problem!
30-40 years ago, people said the same thing about Japanese products: cheap, poor quality, etc. Now, Japanese products represent excellence, quality, and built to last and we pay money to attend seminars to learn their techniques like Six-Sigma and Kaizen because they've been handing we Americans our rear-ends for the past two decades. It's in vogue now to say the same things about Chinese products (as you did with your "garbage" comment), but they have a similar long-term focus as the Japanese did and I predict that it won't be too many years until they get their act together, too. To me, "American-made" is great, but appealing to my sense of patriotism to get me to buy inferior products is not a long-term, successful strategy. My only point with this post is to suggest that you perhaps not paint other-than-American products with the broad-brush of garbage...as you said later in your video, you were pleasantly surprised at how well this little compressor was made. (I bought this same compressor the other day, so thank you for your in-depth review, by the way.)
Well written indeed, and you're welcome for the review.
I fully agree that Japanese products of 30-40 years ago were inferior, and their designs and quality have improved greatly over the years. They have improved well above any beyond anything I could ever imagine, and I fully agree they are of excellent quality now.
In fact, I think that many other countries produce quality products as well, Germany is one such example. The problem is it is very difficult to get, say, a German-made box fan here in USA.
I wish we had the choice as consumers to purchase a broad range of products made in a broad range of places, the problem is the market is inundated with low-cost, low-quality Chinese items. If we had a choice to purchase a Made-In-China item for $40, and a choice to buy a Made-In-Some-Other-Country (and of much higher quality) for a significant amount more would give us a lot more buying options, and a lot of times would make the extra money for a superior product be worth it.
jaykay18 Fair enough. Thank you for the civil discourse.
This is very true. But you also left out a key detail: American made products also took a dip in quality while Asian counterparts increased in quality. Honestly, present day? I would say a lot of American products are overrated, while imports are underrated. I have seen some USA made stuff that is just utter garbage. You can blame that on the general high cost of labor here, the poor training techniques employed, and the general incompetence of the average self-entitled American worker. Stuff has going to shit, and we are just as guilty for it.
BK Nelson I don't have a big problem with Chinese made products. It's all about the engineering that went in to them. China makes everything from iPhones to the crap you find at the dollar store. My biggest gripe with hf or other Chinese manufacturers is the cloning of items from companies that put the money and resources into making a good product. Thats one of the ways hf can keep their prices so low. But I can't really complain. I shop at hf from time to time. If I can afford the better made version, I will go that route. It's kinda a love hate relationship.
I could not have said it better.
THANK YOU so much for the step by step instructions! I am new to using these kinda tools so helpful, I have mine running in the garage on its 30 minute prep...BLESS YOU SO MUCH! 🙏✝✡❤❤❤
You're very welcome, thanks for watching!
I got one of these for much the same reasons you did. I have a 21 gallon Harbor Freight air compressor for more demanding stuff. I just need this when a tire is flat on something in the shed. It will work just fine for that.
Thanks Mark! Yes, that's exactly why I got it.
I've actually used this in combination with the 2-cycle generator, works very well.
(Hint: There is also a 1-gallon pancake compressor made by Campbell Hausfeld. It's a toy, yes, but I couldn't help myself. Video in a week or so.)
I just picked up this Air Compressor, with a coupon for less than $40, last night. I was starting to set it up last night, but realized their were no hoses or fittings included. I'm heading back to pick up the needed hose and fittings. Thanks for a very thorough review from over three years ago. Still appropriate.
Thanks William! Glad this helped you out!
Ugh I just did the same thing just now. Now gotta go back smh
Hi
Model railroading airbrush painting doesn't require use of the full 100 psi, so would this be a good and lasting choice for the use without potential damage to the fuse or other components?
Harbor Freight does sell a special airbrush compressor that may be a better fit to your particular application. However, if the noise this makes is not of a concern to you, I'm sure it would provide adequate functionality for your particular application.
Hey there. If the right gauge doesn’t starting moving in the upward position when I have it filling up, what am I doing wrong?
The regulator (that red knob in the front) is turned too far down.
I just purchased this model yesterday at HF, thanks for the review. I am going to get a friend to check it out first as I have never used one before. I just got tired of running to the air pumps to inflate my car and golf cart tires, I also want to clean off my power tools after a lot of wood working.
You purchased the right one, this will work perfectly for your needs! If you're anxious, just follow what I did in this video to break it in, there's nothing special about the procedure that you have to do. It's explained in the manual as well.
I’ve had one for 10+ years and it still works fine. I kinda hate it for how loud and slow it is but I can’t justify replacing it while it still works. I guess that’s a good problem to have.
Something you could try is re-torquing the head bolts. They get loose in time. Since you've had yours for quite a while, this might cut down on the time it takes to fill. I made a video on that a number of years ago: th-cam.com/video/VSB0r29epy0/w-d-xo.html
LIfe expectancy of an oilless compressor, when using it only to fill tires? Years? Also wondering if you can set the level of output and not risk "overfilling" a tire? Also, did it come with a tire filling nozzle and hose?
We just got one about an hour ago from Amazon. You walked us completely through. Thanks
Sure, no problem!
Thanks! I am a new wood-worker, so what I know is exceeded, by far, by what I don't know. I feel like I now understand the issues enough to make an intelligent decision.
Great to hear, thanks for watching!
Hi😊. Thank you for making this video. I'm thinking of buying an air compressor because I want to be able to nail wood trim with finishing nails. Like crown molding and window trim and stuff. Do you think this would work on things like that? Thank you for your time. 😊
Marcie
Yes, it would work for that. Bear in mind you're going to have to work slow as you wait for the compressor to refill, otherwise you may have a few nails that aren't driven home.
Where do you by chance get the fuse from and can you tell me the exact size of the fuse . I got one for free and I just need a fuse for it
It's a cylindrical glass fuse. There are different sizes, all I can tell you is it takes a "standard" size one, maybe 1 inch it is? Not sure the amperage, should say on the unit what capacity fuse.
I’m getting one to run my new airbrush to paint scale models. All the airbrush compressors I’ve seen are way more in cost than this little unit. Looks like what the dr ordered. Thanks for the review sir. Mike
Sure, if you don't mind the noise and can find fittings to adapt to your airbrush, it should work fine.
Did you check the regulator to see if it can be adjusted to whatever pressure you want to go to the tool ?
Oh yeah. It works.
What is the air fitting? I've had this unit for a decade and never been able to get the pressure to build up. I'm wondering if it's me or the equipment that isn't functioning.
If you have nothing connected to it, and the drain valve on the bottom of the unit is closed, it should fill up in about 4 minutes. If it still doesn't fill up, see if you can feel air coming out from somewhere while it's running. If you can't, it's malfunctioning.
If it's malfunctioning, you can take the cover off the top, and you will find a small square thing with a pipe coming out that has 4 screws. Make sure those screws are nice and tight. If it still doesn't make any pressure after that, the internal working of the compressor are bad and it can go out for garbage.
This video really did not help me. I picked one up and still don't know how to use it. Are all valves closed or open when trying to get air in there? Also, how do I release air?
Think logically. It produces it's own air. If valves are open for air to escape, it can't produce any.
Getting air out is through the hose (separate purchase) with the regulator opened enough for the proper pressure, shown on the gauge. I would throughly stress you sit down with the instruction manual (or find it online if you don't have it). And don't worry if it's 37 pages, you only have to read 2 or 3 of them because the rest are warnings of what not to do, akin to not using a hairdryer in a bathtub.
Going to buy one of these tomorrow they are on sale for $39.99 Im hoping it will work good for using an airbrush on models. Thanks for the video and all the info I am happy its not too loud.
Sure, no problem.
Thanks jaykay18 for making this review. Ive just purchased the same compressor from HF (minus the fuse. I have a reset button.) This is my first compressor, and I definitely needed a visual aid for setting it up. Just one question, I picked this up primarily for detail painting on illustrations, and staple and nail work for canvasses. Do you think this will be a decent starting compressor for those types of jobs? Thanks again!
For the stapling/nailing, I think it should do an excellent job. As far as painting--like airbrushing, you might want a compressor that has larger capacity for air, but you can always start with this one. I believe you'll want to dial the regulator down for airbrushing as it doesn't require a lot of pressure, but may want to dial it back up for stapling or nailing.
If noise is an issue then this isn't the right compressor for you. It's loud enough to be on the cusp of being too loud. Depends where you stand with it, if you're at just the right angle, these seem to have a piercing ringing sound when running, but if you move just a step either way it seems to go away.
If you need quiet, then you'd want to look into building a silent air compressor. These aren't sold really, they're cobbled together. If you'd be interested in that, you can search my channel for "silent air compressor" and see my adventures with that.
Otherwise, for an off-the-shelf, up-and-running-in-5-minutes compressor, you can't beat this, especially for the price.
jaykay18 The noise is pretty bad, but I'm usually wearing headphones anyways. I'll definitely check out the silent air compressor vid for sure, as that noise is pretty piercing. But, for 40 bucks at least i can get started. Thanks again for the review, and the feedback!
OK, good luck!
Would the 6 gallon pancake run less since it can hold more air?
Well, my dad was going to throw one away so, i took a look at it. Rubber ring on piston broke. Another hard plastic outer ring broke. No compression. Looked for 45 minutes for parts support of any kind. Manufacturer is worthless. Didn't even acknowledge my model, much less a manual. Any suggestions?
I bought this thing for $40 BRAND NEW. For $40, it's not even worth repairing a broken wire inside. Toss it. As I had stated in the video, and there's lots of information in this video, an oilless compressor has a short lifespan. An oil-lubricated compressor costs more, and you have to change the oil every now and again. Also heavier. But much faster, and lasts a very long time.
Can this be used with a nailer? Or does a nailer need a higher air capacity gallon?
Watch the video and find out!
“Because I’m a ninja, I don’t need that shit. Safety Third” 😂 good shit
Thanks very much!
Mine just came in today. Did the break in. Let it rest 10 minutes. Then a test run. Built 96 psi, then the pressure valve opened. The compressor continued to run. Do you know of an adjustment that will allow the compressor time to shut off automatically ? Or, a way to adjust the pressure relief valve ?
Exchange it. It's defective.
There's no way to adjust the cut-in/cut-out pressure or the pressure relief valve. Those parts can be replaced, but that's about it. Otherwise exchange it. I've found that they're quite helpful on the phone.
Lots of really practical advice. Thanks.
Glad it was helpful!
Would this work for blowing out water in RV water system for winterizing? They recommend shooting 30-40 psi through pipes to clear.
Yes, for an RV, I think it should definitely do the trick. Just bear in mind that this is the smallest, cheapest air compressor you can get, so you're going to get what you pay for. Harbor Freight's 6 gallon compressor, at twice the price, would allow you to do the job faster and easier, but this will do the trick, if you don't mind waiting.
@@jaykay18 thanks.. understand.
So weird that the instructions on this say nothing about opening the valve and breaking in. So, I just followed booklet instructions and then got as far away as possible from compressor for 4 minutes!
It's certainly not going to blow up during that time with valves open. Break-in was indeed listed in my instruction booklet at the time of purchase; future revisions may not have had that or deemed it nor necessary, but it is.
Was looking to get the pancake style or hotdog style for my son who has a Toyota Corrolla and keeps getting tires. He carries alot of crap in his car so what are your thoughts on the hotdog style? I'm thinking it will take less space than pancake style.
The hotdog style one is identical, it's skinnier but stands taller. Would certainly fit in the trunk, or maybe even on the floor behind one of the front seats. Remember though that these compressors need 120 volts to operate so they'll need to be plugged in. If your son who keeps getting tires is getting these tires for his own car, you'll need to get something instead that runs on 12 volts, and I have reviewed a number of 12 volts tire inflators you can check out.
I’d really appreciate it if you can answer my question regarding finishing nails and a finishing gun for finishing a crown molding. Will this work for crown molding projects. It’s a small project for my master bed room which is slow moving really not much rush. I’m not in a rush it’s my house. So I was just wondering. I know I can go get a 6 gallon one and spend $100 to $150 but this one is on sale for $40 at Hf right now me I’m excited about that
I'd say that if you're using it for JUST crown molding, you should be fine. You'll probably be able to drive a good 8 nails or so before it'll turn back on to fill back up. Chances are, by the time you get the ladder moved to the next section, it will have refilled and you'll be ready to go.
jaykay18 Yeah I would agree with the ladder comment and everything else. Wow man you replied quick too. I will smash that like button, and I will also sub for sure. I do really appreciate it taking time from your schedule to answer my question. You don’t even know me and you did this for me. That means so much to me. You are a good person and I wish you best of luck my friend. Again thanks so much and have a great day.
@@tsnstt Thanks so much for the kind words! Yes, for me, comments take priority. I will always stop what I'm doing and answer a comment. That's just one thing that sets my channel apart from the rest. Don't you hate it when you comment and never receive a reply? That's exactly why I sought to change that. I may not have been thorough enough in explaining something in the video, or may have glossed over something, leaving people with questions. I don't want to leave anyone hanging like that, because I've been there myself, and I don't like it either. I really appreciate your support.
I'm new to air compressors I want a staple gun and I am new to that too. Can you tell me what kind of air compressor I would need to use a staple gun for uphostery any help you can give me would be good just started looking since my electric staple gun died
Most people go out and buy the smallest, cheapest compressor they can find because it doesn't take up much room and it must be quiet because it's so small. Both of those are the wrong reasons to buy a compressor. It's going to take up space, and it's going to be noisy, that's the nature of it.
Do not buy the smallest compressor you can find. While it will be _adequate_ for your particular needs, it will be just *barely* adequate. Go for the next larger compressor. Doing that will ensure it doesn't run as much. That will keep the compressor working longer, and your sanity of not having to listen to it.
after we let it run for 30 mins what exactly are we supposed to do.... Sorry for the question but we have never used one before!
+Elena Tristan Not a problem. After the 30 minutes with the tank open, through the quick-disconnect like I showed, or just through the drain port, just turn it off and reseal the tank, either by removing the quick-disconnect plug you put in, or closing the drain valve. Turn it back on and approximately 4 minutes alter it will be filled with air, and you can use it for whatever service you're doing, it will cycle on and off as necessary. Just remember to use tools that are sized appropriately to the compressor.
Good review. I recently purchased one as a convenience for airing up tires and brad nailer work. I'm wondering the longest time someone has had one of these last. I love mine so far. Snagged it for about $35 after some additional discounts.
Thanks very much. I's say if it lasts a year, you got your money's worth. That's only a dime a day.
My papa has had his for more than 5 years, with very light usage.
It's been left in the rain more than once but it still runs like a champ.
Thank you for posting this helpful video!
You're welcome.
Thanks for the in-depth review very good, so I was thinking of buying this for a very small workshop for home projects. I am now not sure if to buy it or not, will it run a 18 gauge nailer for small projects, also advises you can use it small spray gun. Thanks man
Yes, it will run an 18 gauge nailer. You'll get about 8-10 shots before it turns back on to refill, which takes about a minute. If you're OK with that, then it would work. Obviously, a larger compressor will allow you to fire off more nails before it turns back on; depends on how big the projects you are doing are.
jaykay18 that's cool, I can see how that might get annoying after some time... Only small stuff, projects like elaborate shelf units, boxes also make a fair bit of trellis work.
Trying to start tiny business set up, as I enjoy it so much..
Thank you for the quick response.
Go for their 6 gallon compressor, looks like this one, usually $99.99. You'll be better off all around. I have a review of that one also: th-cam.com/video/baxi_zkK4os/w-d-xo.html
jaykay18 Thanks for the info helps a lot, you have a new subscriber. Keep up the great videos 👍
Thanks very kindly! New video every day! Hopefully I'll see you around in the comments!
Do you have any thoughts on whether to get pancake vs hot dog compressor? Is there any functional difference? Or just a form factor difference?
I believe it is just a form factor difference. I don't know if the air "decides" if it likes one form factor over another. Funny because HF always has the pancake style on sale and not the hot dog one...
Do you have to use the quick coupler piece, or can you attach direct to the NPT?
You don't have to use a quick coupler, but it makes it SO much easier.
Can this compressor handle a HF nailer? I want to do some trim work? Also what nailer should I get from 2 or 3 inch molding?
It will handle a brad nailer, absolutely. Larger than that, it all depends on how many nails you have to shoot and how long you are willing to wait.
Hello sir. So it's good for small home and car works right?
Filling up tires, small inflatables, very small brad nailer or stapler, it will work great for.
jaykay18 Hey Jay, just bought an air compressor like this one but I have one problem. My compressor Worked the first day but after that, it never retained the preasure again. The preasure meter isnt rising, even with long time turned on. I realized something that could be the problem: When I turn on the compressor, I can feel an air leak in the joint from the tank and and the black section, just below the air vents below the safety valvle . Is this normal? Or should I need to repair it?
Well if it's not working it will need to be repaired!
First and foremost, if the unit is less than 90 days old bring it back for an exchange (receipt required).
Otherwise, take apart the unit--remove the cover screws, and then turn the unit on with the cover removed (CAREFUL NOT TO TOUCH ANY MOVING/LIVE PARTS) to see if you can pinpoint the leak. If you can't, you'll need to dismantle every joint and wrap it with teflon tape and then rebuild. Good luck!
So why is there a knob to close the unit? You never mentioned the close knob
There are two knobs. One is on the bottom, and it's a drain valve that you turn to drain the tank and condensation out when you're done using it. The one on the front is the regulator knob. You can adjust it from fully closed to fully open, and that will control the pressure coming out.
Hi quick question....After mines is charged up it only blows for 20 seconds before I have to charge it up again. Is this normal ? Am I doing something wrong ? I need it to blow out heavy duty dust in the inside of my car from work , like a detailed clean but it doesn’t last long at all ??
Yes, it's normal. You clearly underestimated the capacity you'd need, and bought based on price instead.
That’s correct. What would you suggest i purchase? Thanks for the reply
@@yuriarreguin5996 Depends on how long you want it to blow. The sky is the limit as far as air compressors go, they have much larger units with much higher price tags.
My air compressor is just like the one in the video but the psi won't go above 20 when filling! What's wrong with it???
Do you feel air coming out anywhere? Check the safety valve, outlet port, and drain valve. If there's no air coming out of anywhere there, and you don't hear any air escaping anywhere, it's defective.
On the chance that you see this, I just bought this unit and have never owned or operated an air compressor before. Is there a trick to getting the fittings tight? I have the same connectors and accessories, and I can feel air escaping at the connection points. Maybe a little more tape? Thanks for your videos on this - they were super helpful in piecing together the connectors and such. :)
Although I recorded this video 6 years ago (at the time of this writing), I don't leave commenters for dead like most other TH-cam channels. You have a valid question, and it deserves an answer:
Give the threads a good 6 wraps of teflon tape. Make sure the trailing edge of the tape points the direction OPPOSITE of the way it screws in, otherwise the tape will unravel as it's screwed in. Then screw it down, and wrench tighten it. Tight, and a little drop more should be what's needed in most cases. After that, fill a sink or bucket with water and submerge. If there are bubbles, tighten an eighth of a turn at a time until the bubbles stop. Usually, a pair of adjustable wrenches are all you need, just make sure you've got a good drip on the fittings.
@@jaykay18 Thank you so much! I appreciate the information, and appreciate your being a stand-up gentleman and helping me out. Cheers!
@@ThatJessOutWest You are quite welcome, that's what I strive for!
I just bought this for $40 at HF. Do I need to get a filter to for it to remove water and dirt? If so, do you have any recommendations? I see a lot of filters on the market have another regulator and adjustment on them. Not sure why, since this pancake compressor already comes with the adjustment regulator. Thx
Typically something like this is gong to fill tires, balls, stuff like that. Doing more serious work with it generally only goes as far as a brad nailer.
You can't go wrong using such filters, but a brad nailer is $30, so it's not like it's going to be saving a $200 impact gun. Generally a lot of them will have their own regulators since they will be mounted away from the compressor, often on a wall, with easy access, that way you can dial in the pressure you need for a particular tool, as well as service the filter(s). In other words, you're going professional with a Playskool compressor. A 20 or 30 gallon compressor would be the starting point for a set like that, since you have such a volume of air to promote bigger projects, with more expensive tools.
jaykay18 ok thank you. So for my little 30 gallon compressor, I guess J don’t really need to get that extra filter? Thx
For your little 3 gallon compressor, there's not much it will help you with.
@@jaykay18 Thank you.
Anytime.
Realize this is a few year old, but are you suppose to leave the Pressure to Cool know open all the time? I bought 61615 model. Very similar. I have a reset button not a fuse. I followed the basic instructions. I get air coming out of the hose, but the guages never show a value. Guessing they don't work. What did you do after the initial 5 point start on the sticker, and label?
With the drain valve in the back under the tank closed, no hose connected, and the regulator fully open (turned all the way clockwise), turn the unit on and let it pump up. BOTH gauges should read approximately the same pressure, and the unit should shut off around 100 PSI. The left gauge shows the pressure in the tank. The right gauge will show the regulated pressure. The regulator reduces, or regulates the flow of air out of the hose. You can dial that gauge down to whatever pressure you need. A lot of air tools require 90 PSI.
Thank you, guess I'll try it again tonight.
The instructions say to turn the Red Knob (regulator) fully closed, counter clockwise. You're saying to turn it fully open, clockwise, correct?
You'd want it closed for the break-in period. Provided you've already done that, you'd want it fully open (clockwise). Let me know how it turns out.
Thanks Jaykay18. The instructions are messed up. The instructions I mentioned are in the Daily operation section. However they say in the brake in section, Turn your compressor off, than after you make all the connections, turn knobs etc., they say, Turn Off Compressor. It never says to turn it on, lol.
So say you didnt want as much pressure, how do you adjust the pressure...back it off a bit?
Yes, just turn down the regulator knob.
Would this be fine to use with an air blower? Like blowing out door pockets and under car seats?
Yes, it should be fine for that.
Someone knows how much pressure can the tank handle? I want to buy it just for use the tank in other application (I need at least 120 psi to be handle). Thank you in advance.
I don't know precisely, but I can tell you this: They are built to a higher tolerance. What that number is, I don't know. The onboard compressor pumps it to 100 PSI, and it most definitely can handle that. I've pumped it to 110 PSI and it was fine. Somewhere shortly after that, the safety valve will blow. If you are replacing the safety valve with something larger, and are willing to throw caution to the wind (and these are VERY dangerous when they explode), you likely can pump it to 120 PSI. By doing that, you are deliberately defeating all safety devices, so it could rupture. I'd imagine it could handle 120 without any problem, for short durations, but I certainly wouldn't keep it pressurized for long at that PSI.
@@jaykay18 thank you so much for your advice. I will definitively buy other that can handle that psi for longer periods. My idea is to use it as an air tank for air ride suspension (I need it as smaller as it can). Have a nice day. Regards from Mexico.
@@jorgemtr90 Sure, no problem. I wonder if one of those little 12 volt air compressors will do the trick, with no tank. Should work fairly quickly as well. Best of luck with your endeavor.
I have one of these the instructions says close the regulator but you haves yours open? What gives? I close mine and it makes a whining sound is that normal?
I keep mine open because the female quick disconnect stops the air. If no air is escaping, there's nothing to regulate. I have heard regulators whine before. Usually nothing to worry about.
@@jaykay18 I’m scared it’s gonna blow up when it makes that sound lol
@@SDADDYWSL1TR3Y The safety valve would pop before it's going to blow up.
@@jaykay18 do you close the regulator when starting it up as directed or no?
@@SDADDYWSL1TR3Y If the instructions direct you to, then you do. It's that simple. I don't see a need to. I've been using compressed air for many years and have learned what you can and can't do, and when.
What is the procedure for shutting down and storage?
Just open the drain valve, let it drain all the water and condensation, and then put it away. I have a tendency to close the drain valve right then also, because next time you need it, you'll forget that you left it open.
Is the red knob in front supposed to be set to open or close when filling with air?
The book states to keep it all the way open, and install an air fitting in the outlet port, as shown in the video.
thanks for the review.....think its ok to use to adjust car tire pressure as well as light duty work.
You're welcome. Yes, it'll do fine for that.
Questio , do u really need to release the pressure after every use through the drain plug on the tank? Just picked one up and am confused about that drain plug, for condensation they say?
It's a good idea to release the pressure, yes. When you compress air, it becomes colder. Like a nice cold beer on a hot day, condensation forms on the outside of it. In this case, that condensation forms on the inside of the tank. The tank is metal. Metal rusts, especially if it's wet.
If you leave all that inside, and under [pressure, the tank will rust from the inside out. Then it will rupture.
@@jaykay18 thank u. That helped so much.
No problem Troy.
Do u leave the pressure to tool open or do u close it after the break in
Exactly as shown.
jaykay18 👍 got it...thanks
what air fitting do you use to connect your air hose to the compressor, because when i put a piece in it it leaks air????
There are two different air fitting plugs, industrial and automotive. When I got started with compressed air, I chose industrial. Turns out most things use that. The connectors look slightly different and they'll either not fit, or leak, depending. There are other universal connectors that take both.
Again, I use industrial fittings, like Harbor Freight item 68170. No leaks.
Hint: when you grab air fittings out of the bins at Harbor Freight, some will have a red label and some with have a blue label. Red is industrial, blue is automotive. (I've made a couple of adapters to go from industrial to automotive, and automotive to industrial, just in case.)
Did you use tape
I have a video on this same compressor. From watching, it looks like your on/off switch is in a different place than mine. The fuse is just a button on mine. Great review. That thing uses very little electricity. I use mine to run harbor freights pneumatic grease gun. It will do about 15-20 pumps of grease before the compressor kicks on. Yours seems to fill faster than mine does for some reason.
Yes, they make 2 versions of this unit. Mine has a fuse and the on/off switch is mounted in a different place, which also happens to make for a larger "accessory compartment". The one you have uses a circuit breaker that can be reset. I have no idea why they make them slightly different like that. I believe the "hot-dog-style" compressor they have is also available in a fuse and in a circuit breaker variety.
I'd gather the innards of the unit are exactly the same, as they sound the same. They are all slightly different in some way or another. My friend xjoe81x also has one of these with the circuit breaker, and his fills up to almost 107 before cutting out, mine goes to about 95 before cutting out. Shows the quality right there!
I like that your compartment is bigger. lol. Trouble is, if I put fittings in there they rattle around a lot. Some drawer liner would fix that. I have no idea why they would make 2 different types.
Love2boat92 Yes, the compartment on this "fused" model is larger. I also have no idea why they make 2 versions with likely the same innards. I keep trying to figure out why one uses a fuse and the other a circuit breaker, but I cannot think of a good enough reason why. I'd kind of understand if this was something like a "slo-blo" fuse, but it's just a standard glass fuse.
Yeah that puzzles me too. Maybe one is for California???? I know they have a lot of things different in the state (i'm not saying its bad or anything).That's maybe the only thing I could come up with. lol.
For gas engines, absolutely. Air compressors, not so much, but great thinking--I'm sure between the 2 of us we're on the right track. Anyone else want to chime in here?
Mine just stopped building pressure. Any suggestions or just get a new one?
First, check the obvious stupid stuff, like the drain valve. Basically make sure there's nowhere the air can simply escape from. Barring that, you can take the top off the unit and tighten down the head bolts. The head is a small square with 4 Philips head screws, one in each corner. Get a screwdriver that will fit it perfectly (generally a #2) and tighten them down good. Otherwise, it probably is time for a new one.
Could you recommend what gallon air compressor would be good for cleaning water off my mountain bike?
You might very well be able to get away with this one, although a 6 gallon would really be more suitable.
@@jaykay18 thank you very much!
@@cdwag23 You're very welcome.
Thanks for all the good operating tips!
No problem Lou!
Great Video, I'm glad I watched this, it was between a 3 gal and a 6 gal, and I think I'm better off with a 6. based on my needs
Thanks very much. People have a tendency to spend as little as possible on compressors and also generators. With both of those items, you always want to buy more than you need. That way, if your needs grow, you won't "grow out of it". Good luck.
Do you need an air filter attached to it to use it? I bought an air filter with regulator combo. Is that needed for this?
Is it needed? No. Is it good to have and use with it? Yes. Generally, the filter is going to filter the air to make sure no particulate matter gets into your air tools.
Thank you
Great review. You think this is good for a texture hopper for a small job?
You'd have to check the CFM requirements of the hopper. I'd say the 6-gallon one they sell would probably be a better choice for that, and I have a review of that one also.
Will it auto shut off if PSI reaches max? Does it have the air cable with the unit?
Exactly as shown in the video, it shuts at 100PSI. No air hose is included.
Many thanks!
Sure, no problem.
The hose that I bought (which looks to be the exact one that you have there) won't screw on all the way and I can't figure out why. If you look at your video at, say, 14:16 and pause it, you can see that the yellow hose is screwed all the way on to the 1/4" silver metal piece that goes onto the compressor. I bought the yellow hose and attachments as a kit for like $10 at Harbor Freight and none of the pieces screw together more than about 50% before it gets too tight and cannot go any further. As a result, I'm having an air leak where the hose screws on, even when using teflon tape.
Is there supposed to be a tiny leak coming from any part of the hose? Did you ever have any air leaks and if so, how did you get that piece all the way on? It's driving me crazy.
It's never "normal" to have an air leak, that's to start. Secondly, the 1/4" connector is most definitely not tightened all the way down on that hose. Perhaps most of the way, but certainly not all the way. It doesn't need to be tightened all the way to make a good seal. Oftentimes if you do tighten it all the way, the fitting will crack!
Use a GOOD teflon tape. I've used some and then I've used some others. I don't know if any was included in the kit, but Harbor Freight does sell separate rolls of teflon that are actually very good, and probably only a dollar or so.
Make sure you wrap the teflon tape in the same direction you screw the fitting on, that way when you putting the fitting on it won't unravel. Also make sure you use a good amount of teflon tape; the fittings are not all exactly 1/4" and can indeed leak. I've had a bad fitting or two before.
Best test you can do is a water bath, just fill up a sink with water and plunge the end of the hose under. If you see bubbles, it's leaking, and if you look closely, you'll see where it's leaking from.
I'd strongly discourage use of the yellow coiled hose; it's made of nylon which becomes brittle. If it shears off while you're using it, you have a wild air hose on your hands. Personally, I've been much happier with the orange polyurethane hose they sell, which I did a review of here: th-cam.com/video/IEc3Aw2Bq_s/w-d-xo.html
Thank you very much. Can it fill an RV tire 80 psi , I call the tech they say it can but looking at your video seems like it is good for small jobs is it ?
Yes, absolutely it can do it! You MUST leave it plugged in and running. If you have a tire chuck that clamps on that can be helpful. Whether it's a tire or another air tank, it will pressurize anything connected to it up to 100PSI. How long it will take to do that is another matter entirely, but yes, absolutely, if it's left plugged in and running, it will do it.
Thanks Jay for a prompt reply you are wonderful great video I went and got one its on sale 49.99 with coupon 39.99.
No problem. I reply to all comments I receive. Sometimes good people like yourself have good questions to ask, and those questions deserve answers. I love hearing closure like your provided. That lets me know I did a good job with the video and the answers to any questions. It's people like you that give me motivation to make more videos. I post a new video every day. I also have reviews of many other Harbor Freight products. Thanks again for watching, I enjoy making these video and interacting with the audience they draw.
Do the break-in as I showed and try it out. I'm sure the small size will make it easy to store in your RV, best of all it will do the job!
Mine blew its aluminum fill line. Easy and cheap enough to fix and it's back to filling tires. Overall it's cheap but worth it.
Wow, that's a part I wouldn't have expected to fail. Good to hear you fixed it.
Do I need to do the 1/2 hour break in if I haven't run her in a couple of years? My gauges are staying at zero after four minutes and she's not shutting off! Help!!!
Well if you're sure the tank is still sealed, and there's no air escaping, then obviously no air is being pumped in. Next thing to do is take the top off, and check the head bolts. You'll see a square piece of metal that's held down by 4 Philips screws. Use the proper size screwdriver, one that won't slip at all, and make sure those screws are nice and tight. Barring that, chances are it has expired due to non-use.
@@jaykay18 Thanks my friend, I'm such a dillweed, I had the petcock open instead of closed. Rookie signing off!!.......
No problem! We all do stupid stuff like that from time to time. Hey, at least it happened for a good reason--that petcock was left open because you drained the tank last time you used it, which is what you're supposed to do!
Do you let it run for 30 minutes before every use or just out of the box??
Just once out of the box.
jaykay18 ok thanks
Can you set it on a certain psi and have it stay?
Yes, that's what the regulator is for. You need 75PSI, it will maintain that. The tank will always go to 100PSI, and will cut back on when it drops below about 80PSI, then fill back up to 100, as needed.
@@jaykay18 awesome!! Thank you. This will perfect for blowing pipes in my RV. Not to mention a huge money saver. Local RV service center wanted to charge me $250.00 to winterize. No way!!!
@@ToddB987 Great job, you're doing the right thing! I also have a video on how to adapt the air fitting to a hose fitting,here is the link: th-cam.com/video/xsC9IZ3XxiM/w-d-xo.html
It's made for blowing out sprinkler systems but will work just the same for what you need.
Thanks for the video..
When is the right time to "close" the "pressure to tool" valve? I'm only looking to fill up tires.
+steve dans That valve is the regulator. With a fully charged tank, you can turn it so the output gauge reads the maximum pressure coming out of the tank.
Theoretically, that means you can dial it to "30", connect to your tire, and your tire will fill up to 30PSI. That's in theory. In practice, you'll leave the valve wide open, keep the unit plugged in and running while filling your tire (although you can run the tank back and forth to an outlet to plug in and recharge) and check the tire pressure periodically with a tire pressure gauge. The reason you do it this way is because if the regulator is set to 30, and your tire is 28, it's going to take a really long time to equalize the pressures. You want more air pressure behind it to fill the tire faster.
You'd also dial in that regulator for various air tools, most state 90 PSI max. Personally, I leave it dialed all the way up for all of my tools, I'd be willing to bet a lot of shops do that as well. You could also close that valve to prevent any air from leaving the tank, but the quick-disconnect fitting will take care of that for you automatically.
+jaykay18 Thanks man... very helpful info.
steve dans No problem Steve.
@@jaykay18 1st time you provided this info, it wasn’t in your video, just saying
That's because this is a review, not a "let me hold your hand through every little step like mommy did, and probably still does, and end up doing it for you anyway" video.
Looks like a good candidate for filling up a 12’ Hypalon raft.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
rapskallion Thank you! I've come to realize that I'm a pain in the a$$ about certain things, but other (seemingly more important) things I can simply let go. That ties in completely with my doing just about everything in a non-conventional manner.
Case in point: Who in their right mind would take apart a brand new air compressor that there's nothing wrong with? You think I did it just for the video? Nah, I wanted to see! But I guarantee, it was plugged in and turned on when the cover was removed!
jaykay18 p
Ave does. Good job
Will this be good for inflating car SUV tires?
Yes it will.
Great 👍 detailed video. Do you have a video on how to replace your air hose that
Has an air leak? Keep up the good work.
Thanks. Don't have a video on that subject specifically.
Thanks for the video man. I just bought one like this. Never had a compressor before so your video was super helpful 👍
Great to hear, thanks for watching!
Do you recommend it? I need a compressor for a brad nailer. Will this work?
Drew Lyons I like it
Is there an air inlet on this compressor? Thinking of getting one but I need there to be an inlet. Figured I'd ask you since your not afraid to open it up. Lol
Not sure what you mean. An inlet to do what?
The ports on the unit are the outlet port, and the drain port. What were you planning on doing with said inlet? There might be an easy solution.
jaykay18 going to use it to compress oxygen. Most larger compressors have an threaded inlet for the filter. These smaller units are closed up and u can't tell with out opening one. The larger units demand to much volume for my setup.
Justin Lark There is no inlet to speak of. Typically an oil-lubricated on will have such a filter, but that's not a guarantee. My Campbell-Hausfeld 15-gallon in the garage has one, but that's going to demand a lot of volume.
Even my CH 1-gallon has no threaded filter or inlet to speak of. I don't know that an air compressor of this style is going to work for you.
jaykay18 thanks, the larger oilless harbor freight model has a threaded inlet, just to much volume. the typical option is a gast compressor for 600, just looking for a cheaper option to get me up and running. Thanks again!
Justin Lark OK, no problem. You know I've been looking at the 6-gallon oilless forever but they never have it for less than $100. If they did I might consider it to "round out" the collection, even though I have a 6 gallon oil-lubed compressor (which I gave away temporarily). I'll keep that in mind should I ever find that at a lower price.
Would this compressor be good for airbrushing?
The video explains what this compressor is good for. Watch it.
Would this be ideal to use just to clean out spark plug wells in a vehicle?
Certainly it would work well for that. Just get a nice blowgun to go with it and of course a hose that will be long enough to reach comfortably into the tallest engine compartment you think you'll be working on.
Think this would be enough for a brad nailer?
Yes, I've used it with one!
@@jaykay18 Excellent. I bought one and I just need it for a small job
Should be fine. Do the break-in procedure!
Review was 2014, 4 years ago. Is it still alive? My guess based on mine, and reviews, probably not.. I took mine apart too. Reed valves in head are leaking, which pressurizes the cylinder and the motor cannot start under that load and pops the breaker.
This first one I ABUSED the hell out of. It was always left with a full tank, never drained, and left outside in the elements. It held on for about a year until it refused to get past 60PSI. Eventually, something gave out and it sounded quite different and wasn't about to build any pressure. Its replacement, bought 3 years ago, tank emptied and drained after every use, kept indoors, is working as good as new.
how would it work with a airbrush
Fine, as long as you don't mind the noise.
mine stop running 2 months -what is wrong ? thanks
You're going to have to be a whole lot more specific than "stop running". I need to know if the motor runs but doesn't make any air, doesn't run at all, what the gauges read, if it runs forever and never stops, I need details. Be as specific as possible.
@@jaykay18 when I removed the top one of the wires was loose---runs fine now thanks
Sure thing!
Nice video you explained it well, question is, can I use this one to undo large screws with nuts, and what do I need to get to undo the screws
Thank you. In regards to your question: Screws usually don't have nuts. bolts do, as in hex-head bolts. If you do actually mean screws, Harbor Freight does sell an air screwdriver (which I've also reviewed: th-cam.com/video/k15Uzxv11tE/w-d-xo.html).
If you meant bolts, you'd need something like an air ratchet. Regardless, don't let the inexpensive price fool you. If you're trying to do just about anything about brad nailing or filling up bicycle tires, you're going to NEED a beefier compressor. The absolute minimum I'd recommend is their 6-gallon compressor, and you're in luck since I've reviews that one as well: th-cam.com/video/baxi_zkK4os/w-d-xo.html
Yea I meant bolts not screws, do you think Harbor Freight has a tool I could use to take those bolts off, I keep turning and turning and no luck getting them off. maybe I should just bit the bullet and take it to a mechanic.
Well, if the bolts are definitely turning but not coming out, you have a problem that an air tool can't take care of.
ok thank you for listening
Sure, no problem, good luck!
Nothing wrong with oil less compressors. Oil less compressors are used in the medical industry and they run with high demand for years and years. Seems that the trouble with Harbor Freight is they make for low price and have no filtration for the crankcase intake area. I had an old Sears oil less compressor and it had a intake filter but it was of so poor design that dirt could get past it. I don't use oil less compressors mostly cause I don't like the sound they make. Thanks for the videos ! :)
ww321 I see what you're saying. In the medical industry they probably have very high quality filters on them as well.
My friend has a Husky brand oilless compressor, it doesn't hold a candle to my oil-lubed one in the garage. We used his compressor to blow out the inground sprinklers and it just ran and ran; mine has a lot less trouble.
And I agree, I don't care of the sound of oilless compressors either. The oil-lubed ones just have a nicer tone about them. I also made a silent air compressor, you may wish to check out some other videos I have. Thanks for watching and your insight!
True. Consider refrigerators too. I have one at work that has been running continuously since the mid 70s. Not once have we taken it to the Jiffy Lube.
Does the pressure tool red button has to be open or close ?
When the compressor is being used with a tool, you turn the knob until the output pressure matches what the tool requires.
jaykay18 thank you very much
Sure, no problem.
Nice vid. Can I run an 18G finish nail gun. ???
That's pushing it. It outputs 0.6 CFM @ 90PSI, an 18 gauge nailer they sell requires 0.5 CFM @ 90 PSI. So you'll get a couple nails in, then it has to recharge. A COUPLE NAILS. I did demo a brad nailer in this video, if that's acceptable performance to you then yes, it will do it.
I just had one delivered by FedEx at 10:30 last night, and that hard to believe. I have never ever had a package delivered after 6:00 pm. Well glad your unboxing went well . Not the case here did the 30 min brake in, and then shut the pressure valve closed and it never got passed 20 pounds of pressure and it would never shut off buy that time I shut it off and put it back in the box and now I probably get screwed sending it back Ebay payed way to much for it anyway $ 75.00. If I would have known it was form Harbor Freight I sure would not have payed that much. Buyers impulse I blame myself, and why does nothing ever fit back in the box when you have to send it back ?
I'd report that seller to ebay. These things go for 50 bucks all day, so that was price gouging to start with. Not to mention a defective item. Actively pursue getting your money back. Lesson learned.
@@jaykay18 Thanks I always get my money back, Thank God. My Mail man picked it up yesterday " Free Shipping back that's how you have to shop with them. Hopefully this one will be better, PORTABLE HOTDOG AIR COMPRESSOR HUSKY 150 PSI 8 Gal.
Total: $126.12 Thank's for the Good Looking Out.
No problem, enjoy.
How do you hook the nailer up to the Compressor
What kind of nailer?