Badger TC910: need some feedback help

WutDaFunk

JackB

Without a tank the compressor kicks on/off  for a split second every few seconds when your at lower pressures which was very annoying. Mostly I did not like the air running lower every other minute while trying to spray & then noticeably stronger when compressor kicks in.

How "low" are you talking about?

Jack's description is different from every auto-on-off airbrush compressors that I tested the last few years.

Without an airtank, the motor kicks on when you start the airbrush and stops when you let go of the airbrush trigger. I have not seen any surge when the motor kicks in.

This includes the Sparmax TC-2000, Paasche DA400, and a no-name made-in-China compressor.

JackB

Without a tank the compressor kicks on/off  for a split second every few seconds when your at lower pressures which was very annoying. Mostly I did not like the air running lower every other minute while trying to spray & then noticeably stronger when compressor kicks in.

Bick, congratulations! and thanks again for feedback.

keilau

 A decent regulator can be had for $20-50. Make sure to get the true diaphram type which will avoid the pressure reading drop problem, or at least minimize it.

I couldn't tell what came with the TC 2000 or what comes on the 620's. 

JackB

I did not like that small gauge on the Sparmax (see image below, it's ridiculously small don't you think?). If it's the same size on the 620's... To change it out on the 620X would be a problem since it's mounted to show through that same size opening. Then on the 620 it's inside the case like the Badger TC910 so you have to get down where the compressor is or have the unit up on your desk (you can probably fit a little larger gauge in the 620). I have to tell you guys... I know I said otherwise in the past, but having that remote mounting bracket with regulator, gauge and AB holder the TC 2000 came with is making me think again.

Easy access, I kinda liked it.

There is no difficult to add a remote regulator and guage yourself. The low end Iwata compressor have been doing that for years. A decent regulator can be had for $20-50. Make sure to get the true diaphram type which will avoid the pressure reading drop problem, or at least minimize it.

I have 2 2.5-inch gauges in my compressor, 100 psi scale at the tank and 60 psi scale at the regulator. Good gauge are expensive from industry suppliers, but can be had cheap on Ebay. You can go back to my old posts for specifics.

Everybody go through the newbie stage and need help. That's why we are help to help each other out.

Jack,

Yes, I did buy one. And, I agree, the little gauges do take some getting used to. It would be easy to change the gauge but doing so would require some surgery on the case if you wanted to be able to read it. I'll leave that for much later. My friend who has the TC2000 connected some larger diameter pressure hose between the pump and regulator (don't know the length)  in effect creating a mini-receiver/tank. The pump comes on a little less frequently. Also, the location of the gauge (top of case) doesn't suit my old method of having the unit on my workbench. I usually sit while airbrushing and If I do want to look at the gauge,  I have to stand up where with the Badger the gauge was aimed right at me while sitting. The SparMax would work better on the floor. To be honest though I don't look at the gauge all that ofter. Being able to locate the regulator and gauge where you want it does have some advantages.

Also, I can understand some confusion between TC620 and TC620X. The box says TC620X but the sticker on the unit with SN on it says TC620 - go figure.

Bick,

You bought one or is that quote?  Good insight.

Merriartist got back to my support email yesterday evening. They in fact sell the 620x. Most of these seller online either have wrong images or specs. Theirs says 3.5 Liter and 1 AB hose. I know that's not correct.

Anyway, mulling it over atm.  I did not like that small gauge on the Sparmax (see image below, it's ridiculously small don't you think?). If it's the same size on the 620's... To change it out on the 620X would be a problem since it's mounted to show through that same size opening. Then on the 620 it's inside the case like the Badger TC910 so you have to get down where the compressor is or have the unit up on your desk (you can probably fit a little larger gauge in the 620). I have to tell you guys... I know I said otherwise in the past, but having that remote mounting bracket with regulator, gauge and AB holder the TC 2000 came with is making me think again.

Easy access, I kinda liked it.

Jack,

I don't know if the following info will be useful or not but here it is: I couldn't resist the price of the TC620X from Dixie Art so I bought one. My TC910 is working fine but, well, I  just wanted a twin with tank so I now have both. Several days passed after my  online order and I hadn't heard anything re shipping so I called Dixie Art. The service person looked up my order and told me that my compressor would be drop shipped from their distributor "Armadillo" and they would send a UPS tracking number as soon as they had one. Couple more days passed and I got an email from Dixie Art with a tracking number - my compressor was on the truck for delivery that day and I received it (from Armadillo) that afternoon. It was double packed in an outside box with paper packing around the actual SparMax box and no damage. About 6 days total. That was my experience with Dixie Art - just no hassle.

Now to the compressor. It's quite a bit heavier than the TC910 at about 24 lbs. It's attractive and similar to the TC910 except for the curved in case at the front and the additional gauge on the tank. It has two 1/8" BSP output connections so you can connect two ABs but not use them simultaniously. Mine came with two 10 ft hoses. I put it on the bench and did a little comparison with the TC910:

                                       SparMax                          Badger

Time empty to full             28 sec                             80 sec

Time cutoff to full                9 sec                             28 sec

So the difference in output of the twin is obvious. And, to the little 1 inch diam. gauges. Yes, the markings seem to be weird: from 0-20 PSI the marks are at 5 PSI but above 20 they are at 2.5 PSI. Using tank pressure readings mine shuts off at 65 PSI and restarts at 40 PSI. The regulator and gauge are quite different though. If I set pressure at 20PSI with my H&S Evolution brush attached then depress the trigger pressure appears to drop about 8-10 PSI; If I set the pressure to 20PSI while the trigger is depressed, the pressure is rock steady until I release the trigger and the gauge immediately goes up about 8-10 PSI, pressing the trigger again and pressure drops in about 1/2 sec to the set 20PSI. My friends TC2000 behaves exactly the same so I believe its just 'the nature of the beast'. It does not bother ME but might bother some. What's happening at the AB is what's important and there are no pressure blasts and pulses regardless of what the darn little gauge says.

In terms of noise, I think it's bit quieter than the TC910 and noise doesn't change as pressure increases as it does with the TC910. The pump is mounted to the  tank on 4 large hard rubber (?) gadgets which probably proabably absorb vibration and is one reason for the lower noise. The TC910 is bolted directly (metal to metal) to the tank.

Last, as far as difference in tank size (2.5 vs 3 L) I think it's of little practical difference. If my use of Boyle's Law is correct, the 2.5L tank holds10.2L of compressed air vs 11.6L of compressed air for the 3L tank.

In actual use, I doubt anyone could tell the difference except for the shorter filling times. Personally, I like both but if I had to choose I'd pick the SparMax.

Sorry for the long post but I hope it's useful.

keilau

JackB

Here is the current lineup from official site.

www.sparmax.com.tw/air_compressors.html

btw, I didn't mean to give the Sparmax TC2000 a bad rap. I just did not like (or not use to) working without a tank by now. I don't think there was anything wrong with the unit (when AB was off, there was no air loss). Again the quality seemed really good. I would consider it w/tank, that is why looking into the TC 620 atm.

Mostly I did not like the air running lower every other minute while trying to spray & then noticeably stronger when compressor kicks in. It's not pulsating (like spitting air out) but it is not consistent.

Your description here is very different from any normal acting compressor, TC-2000 or any others. I have tested a TC-2000 before. The pressure output is rock stable. Other TC-2000 users can testify to that too.

Yes that's the way it was behaving. I mean the gauge never sat still for a second while spraying and you can feel a slight surge of air when it came on.

You guys would know better as I am still new to this, but I just don't want to put people off (who may read this)  because of my 1 short experience. If I got a bad one, I got a bad one. Maybe I should stick to cans  

JackB

Here is the current lineup from official site.

www.sparmax.com.tw/air_compressors.html

btw, I didn't mean to give the Sparmax TC2000 a bad rap. I just did not like (or not use to) working without a tank by now. I don't think there was anything wrong with the unit (when AB was off, there was no air loss). Again the quality seemed really good. I would consider it w/tank, that is why looking into the TC 620 atm.

Mostly I did not like the air running lower every other minute while trying to spray & then noticeably stronger when compressor kicks in. It's not pulsating (like spitting air out) but it is not consistent.

Your description here is very different from any normal acting compressor, TC-2000 or any others. I have tested a TC-2000 before. The pressure output is rock stable. Other TC-2000 users can testify to that too.

Here is the current lineup from official site.

www.sparmax.com.tw/air_compressors.html

btw, I didn't mean to give the Sparmax TC2000 a bad rap. I just did not like (or not use to) working without a tank by now. I don't think there was anything wrong with the unit (when AB was off, there was no air loss). Again the quality seemed really good. I would consider it w/tank, that is why looking into the TC 620 atm.

Bick

Milairjunkie, I might be in error but I think the 620X has a 2.5L tank and the 620 a 3L tank - otherwise the same.

Yes quite correct Bick.

Milairjunkie, I might be in error but I think the 620X has a 2.5L tank and the 620 a 3L tank - otherwise the same.

Jack, I'm quite surprised you haven't heard from Dixie Art although as I mentioned I haven't used email. My experience with them has been first class. Try calling them, I think you'll find them very helpful. They have an 800 number for calls

It is sorry to hear Jack B to have 2 defective compressors in a roll, from Badger and then Sparmax.

In the later case, I believe that there might be leak somewhere or the compressor was defective leaving the factory. From my personal experience, it is a high chance to be the first case. For example, the nuts of the connecting tube between the 2 cylinders could be shaken loss during shipping. The will result in the output fluctuation that Jack described.

While Sparmax has established a good track record of quality control, but it is not possible to rule out a defective unit without hard evidence. I also will not rule out leak from the compressor to the airbrush connecting hose.

Without a tank, the motor kicks on and continues on when the airbrush user starts the airflow and shuts off when the airbrush stops. That's how the auto-on-off supposed to work and it is not supposed to go on and off randomly, which could be another sign of air leak.

I have a similar Paasche DA400 twin cylinder. It works well with or without an airtank.

Jack, no matter what you get, better luck next time.

JackB

The 620, some have 620 and show 620x image (I think this X is an older model. The case cantilevers out and gauge & regulator mounted on top). On the 620 all the instruments are inside but the On/Off switch is on top. Kinda odd.

The 620X is as you suggest just a cosmetic makeover on the 620, same innards with a slightly different case.

Milairjunkie

Over this side of the pond the TC-610 is probably the best suited Sparmax for modelling - it costs less than the TC-620 as it's a single piston, but it's has plenty power for modelling & all the advantages of having a receiver - unfortunately I don't see it listed on any of US sites I know about........

I have seen the TC 610 online. Very interested if the price is right. I wonder why none of the US sellers stock it. It's would be good middle ground.

The 620, some have 620 and show 620x image (I think this X is an older model. The case cantilevers out and gauge & regulator mounted on top). On the 620 all the instruments are inside but the On/Off switch is on top. Kinda odd.

Anyway thanks for the link. I will check that seller out (they are in Oregon.. so no tax). I never heard back from Dixie support (I wanted to find out a few things before shopping with them, but no answers). 

Constant cycling on auto on/off compressors can unfortunately be an issue at lower operating pressures - it doesn't bother some folk in the slightest, while others like myself find it quite irritating & distracting.

I dont know if it's pushing the budget even further in the wrong directing, but the TC-620 is currently available for $299 shipped here;

http://www.merriartist.com/Sparmax_TC_620_Airbrush_Compressor_p/tc620.htm

It's basically a TC2000 / Stormforce with a 3.5L receiver & a steel case, but it will resolve most of the issues that you have had with the TC2000, although it does share the same regulator (& hence gauge). 

I've been using a similar Sparmax twin with receiver for the last 5 years or so & can honestly say I've never had any issues with either performance or reliability, the pressure control knob was quite firm to lock initilaly, but loosened after a bit of use.

Over this side of the pond the TC-610 is probably the best suited Sparmax for modelling - it costs less than the TC-620 as it's a single piston, but it's has plenty power for modelling & all the advantages of having a receiver - unfortunately I don't see it listed on any of US sites I know about........

Went to Hobby Lobby grand opening this morning w/40% off coupon in hand. Grabbed a Sparmax TC 2000 for $220. Although everything about it looked of good quality, I wound up returning it. I was not impressed at all when I tried to work with it.

Pro's: Looks of good quality material & build, quiet  (but not any quitter than the badger). Comes with hoses and adapters (good quality stuff too, the couplers/fittings are better than my Iwata hose).

Con's: Gauge is much too small & increments on it are terrible. The regulator knob was hard to press/lock back down at times. Adjusting pressure was not easy and once pressure set at about 18-20PSI and the compressor is kicking on & off, no way to tell what PSI your spraying at as readings fluctuate too much (I know this is mostly due to lack of a tank, but it was driving me nuts).

Nice compressor but needs to have tank & change gauge (might be worth while). Without a tank the compressor kicks on/off  for a split second every few seconds when your at lower pressures which was very annoying. Mostly I did not like the air running lower every other minute while trying to spray & then noticeably stronger when compressor kicks in. It's not pulsating (like spitting air out) but it is not consistent. And I was not spraying for more than 2 minutes at any 1 time.

Hobby Lobby Experience: BAD! (don't ask, long story)

JackB

When I first started looking at airbrush equipment, my 1st choice for compressor was the Iwata-Medea Studio Series Power Jet Lite Double Piston. What do you guys think of that unit?

It comes from the same factory as the Sparmax and should be a good, reliable compressor. But why pay all the extra for the Iwata name?

When I first started looking at airbrush equipment, my 1st choice for compressor was the Iwata-Medea Studio Series Power Jet Lite Double Piston. What do you guys think of that unit?

JackB

keilau

Jack,

Chicago Airbrush Supplies is running the Halloween 15% off promotion and the usual free shipping. If you are interested in the Sparmax TC620, it is only $285 shipped.

Hi keilau,

Promo only seems to apply to items on this page:  http://www.chicagoairbrushsupply.com/halloween.html

Thanks though.

Oh!!!

keilau

Jack,

Chicago Airbrush Supplies is running the Halloween 15% off promotion and the usual free shipping. If you are interested in the Sparmax TC620, it is only $285 shipped.

Hi keilau,

Promo only seems to apply to items on this page:  http://www.chicagoairbrushsupply.com/halloween.html

Thanks though.

Jack,

Chicago Airbrush Supplies is running the Halloween 15% off promotion and the usual free shipping. If you are interested in the Sparmax TC620, it is only $285 shipped.

Bick, thanks for the recommend. $68 is good deal for CR, I paid $73, I really like the airbrush. I did run into that 620 review. Lucky guy gets to use & review it for free. Like the airbrush they sent him also.

JackB

Bick,

Thanks, I will take a look. Also I sent email to Dixie Art regarding the Sparmax. That seems to be a good choice for the price since the Iwata models w/tank are $400+. I was talking with 1 gent on youtube who has a Sparmax TC610. It's a single head unit w/tank, but can't find it in USA. Anyway, no rush here.

Has anyone here purchased from Dixie Art and can recommend them?

Jack,

There's a review of the Sparmax TC620X HERE

Yes, I've purchased from Dixie Art and can recommend them. Got my Iwata Revolution from them when it was $68 shipped; also have  bought other odds and ends and never a problem.They've always shipped within 24 hours of my orders. Never emailed them but have talked on the phone - knowledgeable people and nice to deal with.

keilau

Jack,

If your budget allows, go to Hobby Lobby and take a look at their offers. The Windstorm and Storm Force are both excellent value when you use the 40% coupon. They are Sparmax compressors.

It's about $222 after 40% off and shipping. Dixie is $199 shipped. Looks like same unit TC 2000 w/remote regulator and hanger. I think I prefer a cased unit as I don't have a set workspace. Anyway not in any rush now.

We don't have a Hobby Lobby close by, but I see there will be a location open this month on the 19th. Will have to go check out that store soon.

JackB

Bick,

Thanks, I will take a look. Also I sent email to Dixie Art regarding the Sparmax. That seems to be a good choice for the price since the Iwata models w/tank are $400+. I was talking with 1 gent on youtube who has a Sparmax TC610. It's a single head unit w/tank, but can't find it in USA. Anyway, no rush here.

Has anyone here purchased from Dixie Art and can recommend them?

Jack,

If your budget allows, go to Hobby Lobby and take a look at their offers. The Windstorm and Storm Force are both excellent value when you use the 40% coupon. They are Sparmax compressors.

With the twin piston Storm Force, you will not need an airtank. The 2 cylinders balance each other out to give very smooth air flow which is enough to support 2 airbrushes.

Bick,

Thanks, I will take a look. Also I sent email to Dixie Art regarding the Sparmax. That seems to be a good choice for the price since the Iwata models w/tank are $400+. I was talking with 1 gent on youtube who has a Sparmax TC610. It's a single head unit w/tank, but can't find it in USA. Anyway, no rush here.

Has anyone here purchased from Dixie Art and can recommend them?

Jack,

You've certainly had frustrations with theTC910. It's said that all air tanks leak but 8 minutes is a little on the 'fast leak' side of a small leak. If it's not a hose or AB connection that leaks then something is amiss. Mine holds pressure for several hours; in fact I've never had it come on other than when spraying even though it's plugged in and ready to go. If it leaks it's very very slow. But, there are other good compressors out there and you might take a look at the Paasche one shown in the most recent MicroMark catalog - twin cylinder, 3.5L tank and $265. Know nothing about it but specs sound good. Also, take a look at the Sparmax TC620 referenced earlier in this thread - $299 shipped from Dixie Art Supplies and a known value. Because my TC910 is still working fine, I'm disappointed that you've had three that didn't work as expected but good luck with the next one, whichever you choose.

Thank you guys for all your help, info and taking the time, I really appreciate it.

I spent a little time each day the last few days working with this current Badger TC 910 unit and I found that when left alone for more than 8 minutes (without any use), the motor would kick back on. I don't know where it's leaking but there has to be a leak somewhere. This should not be with a brand new unit out of the box and I don't expect to have to buy replacement parts to fix a new one.

I've decided to return it for a refund and will look for another brand.