Air Pressure Regulator & Gauge at Rivet Gun?

[mikeno]

I've seen it recommended elsewhere to install a pressure regulator and gauge at the rivet gun. I had both on hand so I rigged it up and did a bunch of practice rivets (new rivet gun OPS check). With the swivel fitting, regulator and gauge all hanging on the end of the hose with a 3X rivet gun it's a pain for a number of reasons and distracts from the job at hand. Is this a common practice or is just periodically checking the pressure at the compressor is correct sufficient? As my compressor is only about 15' from my workbench I don't see how my pressure would change drastically at the gun. Thanks all Mike BearHawk #1250 KLXT

[bestbearhawk1231]

I have a small brass regulator on my gun as well as the air compressor. I tried a swivel fitting but found it got ungainly pretty quick. I also use a lightweight 1/4" poly air hose which made a huge difference on all of my air tools. I had been using a 3/8" id goodyear brand air hose...the only time that one comes out anymore is for priming. My regulator on the air compressor is a chinese POS so I don't like to mess with it, mainly because I don't want it to break at 2:30am on a Sunday night (I work night shift and usually work through the night on my weekends) and have to wait until a store opens. The brass regulator is very simple and lightweight, no pressure guage or anything like that. I generally adjust the pressure by putting the rivet set against a piece of scrap lumber and pulling the trigger then adjusting the regulator until it sounds right. I then try a couple practice rivets in scrap al to verify.

[Craig C.]

Mike: ditch the swivel and regulator with the gauge. Go to a regulator like: http://www.aircraft-tool.com/shop/de...RODUCT_ID=1824
You will be much happier and it will not hinder you, as does all that other garbage hanging off the gun. Also, go with a good quality, rubber type hose as they are much more flexible than most other types.

[bestbearhawk1231]

The regulator that Craig has listed is the same as what I am using. Works well. The air hose I am using it the 50' version of the one listed below. It is great, cold doesn't affect it. I have used rubber and pvc hoses but they don't compare in my opinion. It is about perfect for riveting and drilling. Like I said earlier, I don't even use my old air hose anymore unless I am painting and need the extra air flow because it feels like there is a garden hose attached. Hope this helps.

[mikeno]

I've got one of the little brass regulators recommended by Craig and there's a Home Depot 3 miles from the hangar so I think I'll practice with these and ditch the rest of the stuff. Simple is good! Thanks guys! Mike BearHawk #1250 KLXT