Air Compressor

I am planning to go to the local community college next semester and taking automotive body repair. My hopes are that someday I can have a shop of my own. For right now I am looking to get an air compressor to use around the house. I have a junk car that I will be "practicing" on. I guess my question is what size air compressor should I be looking at for painting and the sort. I am thinking about getting a used one for right now because I am really short on cash. Thanks a million for your help.

David

I say minimum of 20-25 gallon, otherwise the compressor wont keep up.

what are compressors used for in auto body repair?

what are compressors used for in auto body repair?
What arent they used for? I use my compressor for everything.
Grinder Die Grinders Sanders Polishers Recip saws air hammers air chisels Ratchets Impact Wrench Spray Guns Airbrush Blow Gun Cutting wheel Orbital SandersI could keep going on and on.

Thanks Mike. Yesterday I missed a deal by one hour. A guy had a used Craftsman 60 Gallon Air Compressor for $200. He sold it one hour before I called him. Oh well thats how my luck has been lately. Do you suggest any certain type (Brand) Compressor. Or any features I should look for. Thanks

I suggest oiled for the main feature. Brands, Porter Cable, Campbell Hausfeld, Craftsman, Ironforce (owned by Campbell Hausfeld). Those are the top three in compressors.

What about HP? I found a 3 HP 30 Gallon Craftsman. 3 HP just sounds low to me. But then again I know nothing about air compressors.

Horsepower doesnt much matter. More horsepower makes it fill faster, and sometimes its noisier.