I bought this little 5.5 gallon compressor from Lowes for about $100. It usually keeps us and everyone around us full of air (some say hot air).
http://www.lowes.com/pd_232177-45003...Ntt=compressor
One thing to remember with Lowes. They usually put a 10% coupon in the change of address envelopes at the post office. So I just stop by there and pick up one when I am going to buy something at Lowes. Has saved me many dollars.
Good tip.
OK I did not read the whole message. This is the one I use for the trailer. Would not be big enough for the shop. But for light work at the race track it can't be beat. I have ran tools off of it though. But just short bursts. Can not keep up with a large demand.
Steve