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I just sprayed my BMW’s hood using acrylic lacquer from a can, took me about 10 cans, and then there’s the rubbing out….
I’d like to get start using a spray gun/compressor configuration, but I’m completely new to pneumatic tools.

Now, assuming that the gun I want to use operates at somewhere in the neighborhood of 40-50 psi, and 4.3ish average scfm; how large of a compressor should I get? I found a ridiculously cheap 1-gallon one….will it suffice?

Thanks for any help guys.

The bigger the better. Compressors with smaller tanks will not be able to keep up with a sprayer, and you will constantly get inconsistent pressure, or have to wait for the tank to reach operating pressure. That is not a good thing to do when trying to lay down an even coat of paint. Also, smaller compressors will have to work harder to try and keep the pressure in the tank, and will burn up with heavy use. Get the biggest one you can afford.

2 Responses

1. sensible_man Says:
   March 6th, 2010 at 6:09 am

   You need at least a 20 gallon tank for spray painting, and 30 gallon would be better. Good ones will run $200 and up.
   References :

2. Mike C Says:
   March 6th, 2010 at 6:42 am

   The bigger the better. Compressors with smaller tanks will not be able to keep up with a sprayer, and you will constantly get inconsistent pressure, or have to wait for the tank to reach operating pressure. That is not a good thing to do when trying to lay down an even coat of paint. Also, smaller compressors will have to work harder to try and keep the pressure in the tank, and will burn up with heavy use. Get the biggest one you can afford.
   References :

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