DEWALT D55155 15 Amp 2-3/4-Horsepower 4-Gallon Oiled Single Hot Dog Compressor

by DEWALT

Product Description

Amazon.com Review

At just a foot high and less than two feet wide out of the carton, this compressor was quite a bit smaller than we expected, so to be fair, we quickly lowered our expectations. The joke was on us, though, because this little powerhouse just doesn’t quit, and we learned that you can’t judge a compressor by its size.

We should have known better when the first thing we saw was the word "Emglo" emblazoned in black on that famous DeWalt yellow. Emglo’s half-century in the compressor business is evident in this model, and with a couple of small exceptions (we’ll get into that in a minute), we don’t think anyone could make a finer piece of air power.

Structurally, it’s top-notch. DeWalt/Emglo’s great new roll-cage shape protects your investment in the shop, in the truck and at the job site, and the gauges are easier to read than many we’ve squinted at over the years. It weighs in at around 60 pounds, and the way the handle’s designed, you can carry it much like a suitcase without overexertion. To let out any moisture that’s accumulated, it’s just an easy turn of the ball-valve tank drain, then just wrap the cord on its holder and you’re ready to go.

In the performance department, we have to say this machine blew us away, moving 4.5 cfm at 100 psi. Now, this may be a plus or a minus in your book, but we liked the fact that the compressor is factory set to power on at 100 psi an+d shut off at 120 psi, and the cycle time was under 15 seconds. We didn’t find it unusually loud, but we’re given to wearing hearing protection with tools such as this one anyway (and we hope you are, too.) It has air aplenty for two nailers at once, and with that fast recovery, the job will get done in no time.

If we had to say what we didn’t like, there are two items on that list: First, we thought the power switch would have been better seated on the front panel rather than the side, but that’s a miniscule complaint. What you do want to watch out for, though, is the proximity of the reset switch to parts that get searingly hot while in use. A little care will save you some pain.

In balance, this is one of the best compressor’s we’ve seen for the size, power, ruggedness and incredible portability it offers. Here’s to a great pairing of two great toolmakers.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste

Product Description

DeWalt's 2-horsepower, 4-gallon compressor features an oil-lubricated design with a cast-iron cylinder to guarantee job site durability. The D55155 is overload protected, as well, and delivers 4-1/2 cfm at 100 psi while still drawing less than 15 amps. The new roll-cage design and integrated control panel protects the compressor and the controls from accidental damage. The panel houses two large easy-to-read gauges, the regulator, and two universal quick couples. Carrying the compressor is easy, too: the flat design lets the user tote the compressor comfortably like a suitcase. Other features include a ball-type tank drain and a wrap area to store the power cord. The 4-gallon tank is ASME approved and CSA certified. The package comes with the initial fill of DeWalt synthetic air compressor oil.

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Product Details

• Product Dimensions: 23 x 23 x 13.5 inches ; 68.5 pounds
• Shipping Weight: 68.5 pounds
• Shipping: This item is also available for shipping to select countries outside the U.S.
• Shipping Advisory: This item must be shipped separately from other items in your order. Additional shipping charges will not apply.
• ASIN: B00005NMUY
• California residents: Click here for Proposition 65 warning.
• Item model number: D55155
• Average Customer Review: 3.9 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (55 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #164,202 in Home Improvement (See Top 100 in Home Improvement)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

133 of 137 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars DeWalt takes a classic to a new level, March 12, 2002

By 

Michael S. Paulson (W Hyattsville, Md United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: DEWALT D55155 15 Amp 2-3/4-Horsepower 4-Gallon Oiled Single Hot Dog Compressor (Tools & Home Improvement)

As a full time contractor working alone I am always on the lookout for tools that will make the job go faster and easier. Last yearI spent many months researching a replacement for my ailing Campbell-Hausfeld oilless compressor. Originally I figured the CH had a higher air output, needed no oil changes,would work on slopes and start in cold weather. ...After forking over the big bucks and putting it to work for DeWalt's 30 Day trial period I couldn't believe I'd gone so long without this compressor. The unit has loads of features and advantages.
1) First of all the Emglo name on the unit reassured me that I was getting a tool built by the industry leader with a great reputation for tough, dependable compressors. The first day on the job proved it with quick cycling times and ample air at all times. The unit just purrs and runs smoothly.

2) Portability. I do a lot of work in luxury high rises and I've often left the compressor at home rather than drag it down endless corridors. This unit carries like a briefcase (a 60 pound one) with an ergonomic handle and good balance. The unit's flat design makes it easy to bungee tie to a light weight luggage carrier ...It can carry the whole unit with hoses and nail guns. I can't overemphasize how much easier this makes my job. I've paid for the compressor already in labor savings by bringing it to every trim job.

3) Eye candy. Let's face it, this is a sexy looking unit. I've had othe craftsmen come over and ogle the compressor and ask questions about it, but mostly admiring it. Customers have commented on it, how quiet it is and how professional it looks.I am percieved as a serious craftsman based on my setup (along with my Senco SFN-40)which is good for referrals.

In short, this is a serious tool for the professional contractor with loads of power(delivered air), durability, great design and looks. DeWalt took a classic, the Emglo 790, and improved the power output layout and design. My only complaint is the air release lever, an otherwise solid unit mounted on the underside of the tank. The opening is too narrow for your hand and the sharp stream of air can actually cut your skin. In addition the compressor shoots out small chunks of ICE from the tank creating dangerous projectiles that will cut your hand or riccochet into your eye. Don't know why it does that but just beware and open the valve SLOWLY.
Finally, I have a compressor that won't roll around in the back of the truck knocking off gauges and connections as I drive through the city. Hats off to DeWalt and Emglo for a match that combines legendary durability with great design.

46 of 46 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Dewalt and Emglo make a complete package, great compressor!, June 29, 2002

By 

Craftsman Quality Construction (Curtis L. Cor... (Chattanooga, TN) - See all my reviews

This review is from: DEWALT D55155 15 Amp 2-3/4-Horsepower 4-Gallon Oiled Single Hot Dog Compressor (Tools & Home Improvement)

I am a general contractor building mostly new construction housing and I specialize in finish trim work. Someone decided they needed my trim compressor more then I did so I had to purchase another one. I must admit I was not to broken harted about it though because I have had my eye on Dewalt's new compressor now for some time. The sleek design, the way it protects its gauges, and its 2 quick conect air ports kept calling me every time I saw this compressor. I was not disapointed!! The unit is a little heavy for a portable compressor at over 60 lbs. especially at the end of the day, but it carries well with its handle and it does not slide around in the back of the truck. Inside a house a compressor's noise can seem to be greatly magnified but this unit seems almost quiet, it runs so smooth. I had a larger compressor for framing but this Dewalt compressor has done so well that I have sold my larger one and rely on just this one. It has a fast recovery time although in framing when more then 2 guns are being used it can get overworked a little. Most of the time it handles just fine. The unit really has no real flaws at all the air drain has a great little lever to drain the tank with, but it does blow out hard if you open it to quick and I am not convinced it drains all the condesation real well. I have found that you need to stand the unit up on its side for best draining results and open the vaulve slow. You should always try to use as little extension cord as possible and as heavy a one, at least 12 or better. There is a little black breaker on the compressor unit which can be a little dificult to locate and reset, it would be nice if on a newer version Dewalt would move it to the front with the gauges and quick connects. It has triped several time on us if we try and run too many things at a time such as a miter saw, table saw, and the compressor, but for normal use the draw of this compressor seems fine even on a 15amp breaker.
To sum it all up this is one really nice complete package compressor!! It is small enough for the little jobs yet tough enough for the more demanding jobs, within reason, remember it is only a 4 gallon, running at less the 15amp, compressor. With Dewalt and Emglo combine you will not go wrong buying this compressor, and unless you get a defective unit which happens with all products from time to time, you will have a compressor that should last a long time. Another great product from Dewalt thanks!! One last suggestion for Dewalt; (this unit is so great you might want to make an oiless version for people "like myself" who tend to be forgetful about stuff like, adding oil!!!)

60 of 63 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars NOT for everyone !!, August 19, 2003

By 

"propertybroker" (Palm Springs, CA USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: DEWALT D55155 15 Amp 2-3/4-Horsepower 4-Gallon Oiled Single Hot Dog Compressor (Tools & Home Improvement)

Be realistic and really think about your needs in a compressor - because this one is meant for low-volume work.

Pros:
Very well built with great fit and finish of every component.
Portable, the heft is managable for most tradesmen.
Easily satisfies demand for 1 framing nailer or 2 smaller guns.
Controls and drain valve are positioned well and work perfectly.

Cons:
Too loud for use in a customer occupied home - OK for garage or outside.

Factory set pressure valve set to kick on compressor at 100psi and turn off at 120psi - which means that any fair amount of use will cause this sucker to go on-off-on-off-on-off almost constantly!

Bottom Line: DO NOT get this if you need a generous supply of air (for blow nozzles, production cabinetry, house framing, paint sprayers, etc..)

Go ahead and get one if you need a portable, professional quality, low-volume air supply (for continuous finish nailing or occasional large gun use)

This would be the perfect tool for a handyman who needs occassional yet reliable air from house to house.

I'd have given it 5 stars - but the factory sealed presets for powering on and off are way to close!