looking to replace my cheap chinese made compressor, the electric motor runs very hot and often when the autostart kicks in it runs very slowly or sometimes not at all, leaving it in front of an open window to cool for while will get it going again but I'm beginning to get frustrated. I have looked around and keep seeing pictures of the same or very similar compressors and am loath to throw good cash after bad. I realise you get what you pay for but like the rest of the planet I'm looking for a bargain. Anyone had similar experience? or point me to a reliable brand.
cheers Paul

You said it quite well, Paul...ya gets what ya pays for.

I kept going through cheap knock off compressors for years, even using a small medical use only compressor for a while (that was a BAD idea).

I finally bit the bullet and bought an Iwata Smart Jet IS-850 about six or seven years ago. Bulletproof, quiet, has a built in regulator with moisture trap and the compressor accessories include connections to Badger, Aztec and Paasche brushes. I already had an Iwata HP-CS brush that was also trouble-free but I could also use my Badger 100 and Paasche H without having to switch hoses (or the trigger moisture trap I had).

I still have the HP-CS, but use a Grex Tritium TG.2 (.2mm nozzle). Best part is Grex shares the same brush connections as Iwata, so I just plugged it in and was painting in no time.

I would say go for a piston pump and avoid diaphragm pumps from there buy the best you can afford. I bought one from Model Hobbies which while it does not have a tank it does have a moisture trap and regulator. The motor cuts out when the set pressure is reached and if you use a large bore airline it works as an air tank, you could of course buy a version with an air tank.

If sound isn't an issue, I would suggest a garden variety small 'garage' compressor. Prices are about the same, but they typically come with air tanks and that's a really nice feature if you're like and you like to listen to music or watch a video in the background while you're working.

Thanks for your reply's men, will have to battle on with it for a while yet, cylinder head gasket on car blew last week ££££££££££...........!!!!.
Cheers Paul