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OK, I got a quick question for you. What do a flat tire, dirty radiator, and a roof in need of new shingles have in common? Compressed air is needed to fix them all!
No matter what your needs are, having a source of portable air is a must if you intend on getting your projects completed. That’s where the Porter Cable 3.5 Gallon Pancake Compressor (PCFP02003) comes in handy.
If you are in a hurry, check it out on Amazon!
In this review, we will cover the specifications, features and benefits, and customer reviews of the compressor.
If your looking for a specific piece of information, please check out the table of contents. Otherwise, let’s start at the top.
Contents
Specifications
| Air Delivery @ 90 PSI | 2.0 SCFM |
| Air Delivery @ 40 PSI | 3.0 SCFM |
| Maximum PSI | 135 PSI |
| Tank Capacity | 3.5 Gallons |
| Motor Horse Power | .8 HP |
| Motor Decibils | 82 DBA |
| Product Weight | 26 Lbs |
The Porter Cable 3.5 Gallon Pancake Compressor (PCFP02003) features a .8 HP 120 volt motor. It operates at 10 amps, so it will start easily and run with any extension cord. It also features an oil-free pump and requires minimal maintenance.
In approximately 5 minutes, the 3.5 gallon tank will fill to 135 PSI. It operates at 2.0 SCFM @ 90 PSI and the motor will restart when the tank pressure drops below 105 PSI.
The compressor weighs 26 Lbs and includes a recessed grab handle built into the pump shroud. This allows the user to easily move the compressor where ever air is needed.
Setup and Maintenance
Right out of the box there is very little you will need to do to setup this air compressor. You will want to check that the drain valve on the bottom of the tank is closed, or you won’t build up any pressure.
You will also need to plug the compressor into a grounded outlet. And if an extension cord is being used, make sure it is a three prong, grounded cord as well.
Because of the oil-free design there is very little maintenance that will need to be done. However, you should drain the condensation out of the tank after every use. Built up moisture in the tank can result in water in the air hose and could ruin your tools after prolonged use. It could also lead to the tank rusting over time. A 1-year limited warranty is included on the compressor components.
For more information of Setup and Maintenance please see the owner’s manual
Features and Benefits
This Porter Cable pancake-style air compressor is well suited for many light-duty projects that require portable compressed air. Having a 3.5-gallon tank allows the user to complete a variety of tasks.
What’s in the box
One thing you will find about this air compressor is the lack of accessories that are included in your purchase. The motor and pump are fully assembled and have a pressure gauge and regulator installed, so adjusting the air pressure is as easy as turning a knob.
A quick coupler is also installed from the factory, with the option of adding a second coupler for running multiple tools.
A 120v power cord that is approximately 4 foot long is also pre-wired onto the motor.
Job Capabilities
A compressor of this size has limited capabilities, but that doesn’t limit the applications that it can be used in.
With its light-weight and portable size, this compressor is perfect for roofing jobs. Just grab an extension cord and an air hose and start nailing those shingles down. One user stated they were able to put over 100 18g nails in before the compressor started running.
However, because of the small tank capacity and low horse power motor, running multiple tools will result in the motor having to run more frequently. And at 82 decibels, having the compressor running that often could be kind of annoying.
This compressor is also perfect for all the inflation and air blowing tasks you might come across. As well as trim nailing, stapling, and airbrush painting.
Watch this video to see the Porter Cable PCFP02003 air compressor in action.
What customers are saying
Overall, users are impressed with this air compressor.
The Good Reviews
Users that are satisfied with this air compressor have noted how this unit is the perfect size and weight to easily carry around or throw in the trunk or back of a truck. The ease of set-up was also noted as a plus to purchasing the compressor.
Other satisfied users stated this is a perfect portable compressor that could be used for smaller projects such as inflation, vehicle detailing, nailing and stapling. They stated that after having used it, it met all of their expectations and worked well for what they needed.
The Bad Reviews
Along with the many good reviews, a small number of users had negative things to report on this compressor.
The most common complaint of their purchase was the lack of accessories included. But most air compressor manufacturers don’t include even the most common of accessories and Porter Cable doesn’t state that any accessories are included.
Others users claimed to have issues with the tank leaking or not getting up to maximum pressure. Along with several complaints of the compressor being too loud and vibrating to the point it would “walk” on them.
Let’s Recap
If you’re a DIYer or even a homeowner that likes to tackle projects on your own, there are few air compressors that can beat the Porter Cable 3.5-Gallon pancake air compressor.
With this air compressor, you will have the capabilities to tackle any project you put your mind to. Not to mention the convenience of having virtually maintenance free, and portable air.
However, even though this is a quality air compressor, it might not suit everyone’s needs. For example, contractors and professionals will find this unit to be underpowered, and not able to keep up with crews running multiple air hoses at once.
Overall, if your looking for a quality, well built, and reliable air compressor, then look no further than the Porter Cable 3.5-Gallon Pancake Air Compressor(PCFP02003) (Affiliate Link)
