I've got an air compressor and want to start getting some air tools but the quick couplers I originally bought aren't all compatible. What is the industry standard quick coupler type? I've seen M type, T type, A type and I am guessing that one of these is more widely used than the others. Any advice is greatly appreciated.

Waylan

 

I have worked in 4 different shops and each one was different. As for as I am concerned just pick one and use it. they all work the same.

 

If I remember right, there are at least three different configurations. I ran into the same problem and ended up buying a bunch of them at once and replacing them all so everything matches. Not all that expensive and now I can use my tools without having to rob couplers back and forth to match things up.

If I am not mistaken, the "Industrial Interchange" is supposed to fit two of the other configurations.

Good Luck

 

I use the M type in all my tools, have had good luck with them. Like was said above, pick one and equip all tools with same coupler style, and you will be fine.

 

Thanks for the comments guys. I just didn't want to buy one particular type and find out later that the "standard" was a different one. I didn't even realize there were different ones until I had some that wouldn't connect. I believe from my other research that the M type is probably the most common.

Anybody got a preference on hose diameter/length and a hose reel? I am thinking about a wall mounted manual reel that will hold 100' of 3/8" hose. Do impact wrenches and such need a larger hose than this to operate correctly? Are the automatic rewind reels the best thing since sliced bread? I don't like to do things twice........too much money and time involved........I'd like to get it right the first time.

Waylan

 

I had the wall mounted manual reel, it was OK, but next time I will get the auto rewind model. Mine holds 50', which is enough to go anywhere in the garage. I have my air compressor right by the door, so I can also go about 45' out into the driveway as well. Has worked well for over 3 years now.

 

I would not waste my money on one of the auto rectract reels, i have never seen/used one that worked right more than a week since it was new...

 

We have one in our shop, been there for years, use it about every day and works fine still. Maybe just depends on the quality you buy?

 

a lot of times I like the auto reels that hang in the center of a garage, especially if it is a two car wide unit, hose in the middle of the ceiling is reachable from the center and easy to get at. A good unit is the best thing since sliced bread, a cheap one will serve you better sitting on the shelf at the store than in your garage...... Trust me, I have a cheap rewind unit imn my truck tool box for use of my on board air and impact tools & that cheap winder drives me nuts.