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11-16-2018, 12:18 AM
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Join Date: Oct 2018
Location: Laredo, TX
Posts: 6
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New member, first question: Air compressor
So I have decided that I want to embark on the journey of building an RV-10! I have researched for countless hours, and I feel I have the capabilities, resources, and most importantly the time to carry this out!
It's time to start tooling out, so I need some help. As for tools, I'm pretty set on ordering the RV-10 tool kit from Isham with a few upgrades, and maybe some separate parts from Cleveland Aircraft Tool. We'll see.
My first real question involves air compressors. I've read several people recommend different kinds and sizes. I've even read some people buy the motor and tank separately and piece them together. Ultimately, I want the plane to be the project, not so much the tools, even if it means spending a little more, but getting started sooner. Also, I don't want the bare minimum. I do live with parents, so making less noise is a plus.
All that being said, I believe the general consensus is to get a 2 stage, belt driven, oiled, air compressor of approximately 60-80 gallons.
This one seems to fit the bill, but it costs about $2k. Do you guys think it's overkill? Do you all know of any other model numbers or brands that would fit the bill?
For what its worth, I will be doing quick build on the wings, and still undecided on the fuselage.
Thanks in advance for any pointers!
-Alex
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11-16-2018, 12:27 AM
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Senior Curmudgeon
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Join Date: Sep 2005
Location: Dayton Airpark, NV A34
Posts: 15,420
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Welcome to VAF
Alex, welcome aboard the good ship VAF
The compressor you linked is very close to what I have--------and mine is close to 20 years old and has been totally reliable and has never failed to perform all I need it for.
If you can afford it, and you will still be able to justify it after the build, my $0.02 says go for it.
__________________
Mike Starkey
VAF 909
Rv-10, N210LM.
Flying as of 12/4/2010
Phase 1 done, 2/4/2011 
Sold after 240+ wonderful hours of flight.
"Flying the airplane is more important than radioing your plight to a person on the ground incapable of understanding or doing anything about it."
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11-16-2018, 12:36 AM
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Join Date: Oct 2018
Location: Laredo, TX
Posts: 6
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Mike S
Alex, welcome aboard the good ship VAF
The compressor you linked is very close to what I have--------and mine is close to 20 years old and has been totally reliable and has never failed to perform all I need it for.
If you can afford it, and you will still be able to justify it after the build, my $0.02 says go for it.
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Thanks for the quick reply Mike! It would probably end up staying in the garage long term as a gift for my father. He's always wanted one.
The only issue with buying this is that it might delay ordering the empennage a month or so; but if it'll save future headaches for me and the family inside the house, I'm all for it.
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11-16-2018, 12:38 AM
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Join Date: Dec 2011
Location: Livermore, CA
Posts: 6,797
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People seldom regret buying good tools. That said, yes, $2K is overkill.
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11-16-2018, 12:49 AM
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Join Date: Oct 2018
Location: Laredo, TX
Posts: 6
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Quote:
Originally Posted by BobTurner
People seldom regret buying good tools. That said, yes, $2K is overkill.
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I hear you. Any ideas of other models that may be more appropriate for this build?
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11-16-2018, 12:51 AM
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Join Date: Jan 2005
Location: Indianapolis, IN (KUMP)
Posts: 1,024
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You would never run short of air with that compressor.
Unless you plan on painting or running a lot of high consumption tools (grinders, etc), it is probably overkill just for the -10 project.
However, if cost isn't an issue and you want a huge compressor, IR makes good stuff...
I have a single stage oiled 60 gal compressor that I found on sale at Lowes for $100 (it likely was mismarked but the cashier was insistent the price was correct). It has been more than I need for the -8 project so far. I started with a smaller Craftsman non-oiled compressor and it ran frequently and was loud.
__________________
Thomas Short
KUMP - Indianapolis, IN / KAEJ - Buena Vista, CO
RV-10 N410TS bought / flying
RV-8 wings / fuse in progress ... still
1948 Cessna 170 N3949V
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11-16-2018, 05:29 AM
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Join Date: Aug 2005
Location: Atlanta, GA
Posts: 4,218
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Quote:
Originally Posted by BobTurner
People seldom regret buying good tools. That said, yes, $2K is overkill.
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Yep. My 1.5 hp, 20 gallon compressor from Sears is pushing 25 years old. I've used it to rivet together two airplanes, paint one, and do all of the priming on a second. Is it loud? Yes, but earmuffs are cheap and I only use the compressor about 1 in 10 work sessions. There is no way I could rationalize a $2k compressor.
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Kyle Boatright
Marietta, GA
2001 RV-6 N46KB
2019(?) RV-10
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11-16-2018, 05:43 AM
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Join Date: Jun 2010
Location: Sunman, IN
Posts: 2,189
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Check iut
Aircompressorsdirect.com
You will find a great compressor and won?t spend $2k...
__________________
Bob
Aerospace Engineer '88
RV-10
Structure - 90% Done
Cabin Top - Aaarrghhh...
EFII System 32 - Done
297 HP Barrett Hung
ShowPlanes Cowl with Skybolts Fitted - Beautiful
Wiring...
Dues+ Paid 2019,...Thanks DR+
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11-16-2018, 05:46 AM
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Join Date: Feb 2015
Location: Locust Grove, GA
Posts: 621
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So how does one rationalize two airplanes?
I try to buy the best tools I can afford and I’ve never regretted it. That being said, it’s easy to get distracted by the newest shiny object and lose sight of the goal.
If it’s a gift, I say go for it. I have the 7.5 hp fully packaged version of that IR compressor and it works great. I also use it for bead blasting, impact wrenches, etc. and would buy it again if I needed to.
__________________
Krea Ellis
Locust Grove, GA
DA20-A1 "Princess Amelia" - gone home to Amelia Island
RV-7A Phase 2
RV-10 under construction at Synergy Air South
Last edited by KatanaPilot : 11-16-2018 at 05:47 AM.
Reason: Corrected misspelling
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11-16-2018, 06:11 AM
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Join Date: Mar 2016
Location: Northern VA
Posts: 267
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So working on my RV-10 and I don't have anything crazy for my air compressor. Just a 20 Gallon single stage unit. It can output 4 SCFM at 90 PSI and it has done just fine for the last two years. I think similar units go for $200-$300 depending on brand.
I have used it to spray primer, buck rivets, air-drill, squeeze, and some sanding. Compressor is in my garage and I typically wear hearing protection as the compressor is annoyingly loud. I also do have to allow the tank to recharge when spraying or sanding, but honestly it's not terrible.
Unless you plan on actually painting your project with this compressor, I don't think you need that big of a system. Granted I'm sure you will love the compressor you listed, just make sure you have sufficient power and a place to mount it!
Welcome to VAF and good luck on your project!
__________________
Brian Lester
Dues Paid - 2020
RV10 Slow Build - #41778
Finish Kit - in progress
RV10builder.com
KVKX / KHEF
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