New or Used Air Compressor?

[facility1]

Some of the older compressors are better built, rebuild if you can get parts/kit and just run them. can depend on brand and size though.

 

[nealberke]

Buying used poses a risk if they did not properly maintain it and drain it, if it rusted internally and explodes it will go off like a bomb destroying much near it.

Buy new, maintain it and keep it for decades instead of buying a risk.

Thank you. I've wondered about this for years. I was visiting a tool forum many years ago when someone wanted to put a new motor and compressor on an old air tank. Even if you drain moisture regularly, rust occurs. At what point is a tank too rusty to save? I would only bet on say a 5 year old lightly used compessor for my needs. I'd stay away from anything used for years in a commercial / industrial environment or a "barn find".

 

[oil pan 4]

Thank you. I've wondered about this for years. I was visiting a tool forum many years ago when someone wanted to put a new motor and compressor on an old air tank. Even if you drain moisture regularly, rust occurs. At what point is a tank too rusty to save? I would only bet on say a 5 year old lightly used compessor for my needs. I'd stay away from anything used for years in a commercial / industrial environment or a "barn find".

I run them till they rust through and start leaking.