[sfry]

Ron,
Stay with the 220v single phase compressors. 6 to 7 horse and 60 to 80 gal tank will be great for all of your needs and future growth, piping ect.Smaller compressors seem to run more.(The more it runs the more it costs in electric and parts!) You dont want a compressor to run all the time unless it is a screw type. Typically screw type compressors are a industrial grade. Most sold to the average Joe is a piston type. More pistons the better and it will run more efficient. (my spelling sucks) Look at the CFM@90 psi. Try to get something in the 12.0+ range. The others seem to die off. As for brands- Speedaire,Ingersol-Rand and great. Campbell Hausfield is not as good but not a bad compressor. If you need charts on layout calculating size ect. let me know. I have helped many new shops in their purchases. I have the Campbell Hausfield 7.5hp and 80 gal tank for my home shop. I can paint cars no problems without any starvation. It wooks for me! You can also talk to Jerry at Hi-Line on your Island. Good Luck.

Shannon