Sounds like a lot of problems for a $1000
Air compressors are high maintenence, no matter what brand they are. Think about it, they compress air to 4500 psi. That is a hard life folks.
And your shoe box takes how long to fill a scuba tank? Different animal all together. I agree, shoe box compressors are lower maint, but the speed is the difference. If you have time to wait for them. Also, don't you need a regular compressor as the "first stage" in order to use it? If so, then you need to factor in the price of that compressor as well, putting the price point higher for that system. To each their own, I fill at a local dive shop because I don't want to deal with the maint of compressors.
I will never ever own another shoebox again ever. Nothing but problems for me and slow as a snail. If Mike sets up his compressors like I did mine there will be no problems and this thing fills fast REAL fast. I'd have no qualms about getting another one knowing what I know now.
I saw a used shoebox advertised for $900! You fellows have bought one at bargain basement prices apparently. I get advertisement pop ups when on the net that show them starting at $700. It is my understanding that a significant dryer setup is required.
Never posted about my 2 shoeboxes my friends know how much trouble ive had with both of them I almost body slammed my MAX onto the shop floor I was so perturbed at it.
Run the compressor for 5 hours on included oil. This is break in oil then change to this oil.