Choose a 185 CFM towable air compressor to run one or two pneumatic tools such as breakers and jackhammers, and a 375 CFM unit for sandblasting with medium or large nozzles or for running several tools at once. A used 185 CFM compressor costs about $9,900 to $17,800 and a used 375 CFM unit about $17,500 to $25,600, based on units listed by IronPower Industries.
185 CFM vs 375 CFM at a glance
| 185 CFM | 375 CFM | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Breakers, jackhammers, small blasting, general construction | Production sandblasting, multiple tools, larger crews |
| Tools at once | Up to two 90 lb breakers | Several breakers or one large blast nozzle |
| Sandblast nozzle | Up to about #5 (5/16 in) | About #7 to #8 (7/16 to 1/2 in) |
| Size and towing | Compact, easy to tow behind a pickup | Larger and heavier, needs a suitable tow vehicle |
| Used price range | $9,900 to $17,800 | $17,500 to $25,600 |
How to decide
Add up the air your tools use
Every pneumatic tool has an air consumption figure in CFM at a given pressure. A 90 lb pavement breaker uses roughly 90 CFM, so a 185 CFM compressor runs two of them. Add the CFM of every tool that will work at the same time and leave some margin.
For sandblasting, the nozzle decides
Air demand grows quickly with nozzle size. At 100 PSI, a #5 nozzle needs roughly 140 CFM, a #6 close to 200 CFM, a #7 about 250 CFM and a #8 about 340 CFM. Nozzles also wear and use more air over time, so blasting contractors usually choose 375 CFM.
Think about pressure, not only volume
CFM is how much air the compressor delivers, and PSI is how hard it pushes. Most construction tools work at about 90 to 100 PSI. Check that the compressor delivers its rated CFM at the pressure your tools need.
Consider transport and fuel
A 185 CFM unit is the easiest to move between small jobs and burns less fuel. If you rarely need more than two tools, the bigger machine only adds cost.
What to check on a used towable compressor
- Hours on the engine and service records for oil, filters and the air/oil separator.
- That it builds pressure quickly and holds it under load.
- Oil leaks around the airend, hoses and cooler.
- Trailer condition: tires, lights, hitch and safety chains.
Frequently asked questions
How many jackhammers can a 185 CFM compressor run?
Two 90 lb breakers, or more of the smaller tools. Check the CFM figure of your specific tools.
Can I sandblast with a 185 CFM compressor?
Yes, with a small nozzle of about #4 or #5. For faster production with larger nozzles you need 375 CFM.
How much does a used 185 CFM air compressor cost?
Most used 185 CFM diesel units we list are priced between $11,000 and $12,000, with a full range of $9,900 to $17,800 depending on year, hours and brand.
See our used air compressors for sale from Atlas Copco, Doosan and Ingersoll Rand, or contact us for availability and a freight quote.
