Small Compressor for Scuba Shack

[Mr.X]

Hi Folks,

I am trying to decide what type of compressor to have in my "someday" scuba shack (vacation home).

Not quite knowing what property is available I am looking at small compressors like the Coltri / Max Air brands and BAUER junior. I like the electric ones and see that 120 vs. 220 affects CFM. No biggie there as I make and sip a Latte while it fills.

Any suggestions with regards to:

1. One brand over the other?
2. Operating costs for someone who might fill less than 2 tanks a week? Perhaps 3-4 a day during peak "club" seasons?
3. Ease of filter replacement, or repacking?
4. Gas vs. electric?

Thanks in advance compressor specialists!!!

X

 

[CraigAClark]

Personally, I would keep my eyes peeled for a used Utilus 10, either in 3hp version or 2hp version (Purus), electric. You can get an adaptor plate from Bauer to allow you to inter-change between electric and gas.

Craig

 

[Mr.X]

Personally, I would keep my eyes peeled for a used Utilus 10, either in 3hp version or 2hp version (Purus), electric. You can get an adaptor plate from Bauer to allow you to inter-change between electric and gas.

Craig

Thanks. I will consider this brand too!

Cheers,

X

 

[micklock]

This is the one I'd like to get. W31-2-310-P2 Electric
Alkin USA, Alkin, compressor, high, pressure, breathing, air, compressor

 

[CraigAClark]

Thanks. I will consider this brand too!

Cheers,

X

They are Bauer units, just discontinued models. Too bad Bauer had to "cheap up" with the Junior series, to compete with other manufactures.

Craig

 

[pescador775]

A real nice Utilus 10 was on EBay about a week ago. I've worked on those compressors from time to time and remember being surprised at the high quality. After spending years playing with military type compressors it's a little too easy to be dismissive of pumps made for the retail market.

I would not consider the Alkin at this point. Some issues have been raised on decostop regarding the Turkish built machines so right now I consider it a caution flag at least.

 

[micklock]

I would not consider the Alkin at this point. Some issues have been raised on decostop regarding the Turkish built machines so right now I consider it a caution flag at least.

Thanks for the heads-up.

 

[Mr.X]

Thanks fellas. Appreciate any info. I will continue to research.

 

[Jimmer]

Sorry for the hijack, but what is the consensus on the small Coltri compressors? I have seen one locally that claims 12 hours use, and the guy wants $1500 for it.

 

[tlawler]

Sorry for the hijack, but what is the consensus on the small Coltri compressors? I have seen one locally that claims 12 hours use, and the guy wants $1500 for it.

I'm a little curious about them also. I've been looking at an older MCH-6 myself.

What I do know about them is that they are a 4 stage design, so there is less compression per stage and therefore less wear in that respect. However they run at a significantly higher RPM than a Bauer, so the lessened wear from the 4 stage design may be negated. At 2800 RPM they are rated at 4.2 SCFM and at 2240 RPM they are rated at 3.5 SCFM.

Are they like Bauers in that older models are more durable? Any thoughts?