Do you need a portable compressor that can be taken anywhere on your property? Are you looking for something that is powerful, yet still low maintenance? The Porter Cable 3.5 Gallon pancake compressor weighs just 26 pounds, so it has a high level of portability to meet your DIY needs. With a maximum 135 PSI and 2 SCFM delivered at 90 PSI, this affordable air compressor is easily one of the best ones on the market today.
How Can This Porter Cable Pancake Compressor Be Used?
Because of its size, you aren’t going to be able to use this small pancake compressor to replace one that is built to commercial specs. You’ll be able to inflate tires, sports equipment, and other inflatables with ease. If you have an inflatable boat, this compressor will make your life a whole lot easier.
You’ll also be able to equip a blow gun to this model to quickly clean up your work site. It’s quieter than your standard leaf blower and if you have a 25 foot hose equipped to it, you won’t even need to carry around the tank to work.
Smaller air tools also work well enough with this Porter Cable air compressor. We found that small nail guns [or trim guns] did well enough, letting us install interior trim without damaging the wood. Laminate flooring was also suitable for this compressor, but high density hardwood flooring could be a struggle from time to time.
What to Expect With This Pancake Compressor
We’ve noticed that this air compressor has one small issue within its design that could make it problematic for specific users. The manifold has an O-ring that works with a piece of plastic. You can replace the entire manifold to repair the issue, but taking care in how you transport this compressor will help you avoid the issue. Also make sure to remove any remaining air pressure in the tank when the compressor is not in use.
For $100, it is important to have reasonable expectations with this Porter Cable air compressor. It ran a ratchet for us fairly well, but it won’t run a contractor-grade nail gun for roofing. It will fill up the tires in your wheelbarrows, cars, and bicycles, but won’t fill up the tire on a bulldozer very well. It is electric-powered, so invest in a longer air hose rather than try to rely on an extension cord that could affect your amperage.
This Porter Cable pancake air compressor comes with a 1 year limited warranty on compressor components only.
We found this little air compressor to be a pretty effective solution for your small DIY projects around the house and those little maintenance chores that seem to take up so much of your time. This compressor does not come with any accessories, so you’ll want to invest in a tire gauge, your preferred air tools, and other items you plan to use with this compressor to make full use of it.
If you’re looking for an oil-free compressor that has portability and functionality wrapped up into one package, then we recommend the Porter Cable 3.5 gallon pancake compressor. It is designed to help you get your next project completed on time.
