Air compressors

[Dave C.]

Bob,
Check out this one at Harbor Freight for $170, including Shipping. 
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=47065

It might be worth something to have a bulky 150 pound object like this
dropped off at your home rather than fetch it yourself from WalMart, etc.  
I have a Campbell Hausfeld with similar style.  It works great for my
intermittent occasional needs.  While it is a brand name I doubt the
quality is much better than the no-name unit linked above. 

When the motor kicks in it is VERY NOISY which I think is typical of the
maintenance free motors.  I think more expensive and durable cast iron
motors are quiter, but no direct experience here. A bigger tank means it
won't runs so often as with a smaller tank.  You probably want a unit
capable of about 5 scfm at 90 psi because this is what impact wrenches and
similar tools usually call for.  But the reserve in the tank will give you
this for awhile regardless of what the compressor motor is capable of...
bigger tank is good. 
Other considerations include floorspace and noise.  I like the upright
style with wheels ... mine is kept in the garage.

Spend the extra $ to get rubber hose.  . 
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=2167
The PVC hoses are too stiff especially when cold.  They suck even in warmer
temps

The Porter Cable unit Jim Green suggests looks like it's worth considering.  
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Dave C.