Kragens has 5 gallon air tanks for sale for $15, as opposed to sears $40 9 gallon, or even cheaper than that at HF. Wondering if anyone used a 5 gal tank before and found it sufficient, and could post their experience with how much to really expect this to last, like how many 1-3 lbs increases, or filling a slightly deflated tire. i found with my old 9 gal, (which i lost somehow) it would fill sufficiently during the day of several run groups, if you put enough pressure in it. but it was also heavy. and mine had a slight leak so it was only good for a day, the next day youd have to totally refill it. something lighter and cheaper and smaller would be nicer.

 

For the price-buy it. I have yet to run out of air for a weekend. Then again I only make slight adjustments. Many tracks have air available. I would definitely keep the tank full at 125 psi.

 

I ended up buying the Craftsman 9 gal after my cheaper 9 gal quit holding air. Personally, I have trouble making 9 gal last all day. The number of 1-3 lb increases will naturally depend on the temp, and on hot days I end up bleeding after each run. However, it never fails that I spend half my day loaning my tank to people or making large adjustments during time-only (fun) autocross runs. On the other hand, I hardly ever empty the tank at the track, mainly due to the temps we have here in AZ. Anyway, I would personally have a hard time with a smaller tank, and I think it wouldn't be worth the trouble of bringing 5 gal since I would end up looking for air at the event.

BTW, if you do end up buying a more expensive tank, drain it at the end of each use (either at the end of the day, or the end of the race weekend) so that moisture in the air doesn't rust it out.

 

I got my air tank at walmart. I think its a 7 gallon but can't remember. It was red and very cheap but has been working great for 2 years so far.

 

The 9 gallon generally gets me by for a weekend, but only barely. I think the big problem is people borrowing it as a result of being too lazy to go down to the air supply at the track.

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by krshultz &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">I think the big problem is people borrowing it as a result of being too lazy to go down to the air supply at the track.</TD></TR></TABLE>

Thats my main problem. I'm going to have to stop being nice with my air. I let people use it and its gone before I get to.

 

Tyson, I used a 5gal tank when I autocrossed. I was sorely disappointed with it. It never held enough air. I decided a small compressor that I could take to events was better for me. Home Depot offers a Campbell Hausfeld compressor that has its own internal battery so you don't have to plug it into anything. I love mine and would suggest you go that route instead.
-Adam

 

okie, ive been regretful of buying lots of cheap stuff before, ill not do it again. thanks for the opinions.

 

I bought a 7gal. CH tank at Wal Mart for ~20-25 (can't remember exactly). I go up to ~50psi up front (from 35) for autox, and provided the tank's full, I have no problems.

 

Definitely look into the 7 gal tank at Walmart. Price is around $20.