Carette 4500 PSI Compressor Report
The Carette 4500 compressor is a Chinese compressor that seeks to fill the price performance gap between “big boy” dive compressors and Shoebox compressors.
Mr. Wang has kindly supplied a demonstrator unit for testing. As a demonstrator unit rather than a final production unit, the test unit may not match the appearance and configuration of the actual shipped units. This one included a PMV, high pressure air filter unit and automated condensate drain system. I do not know if those features will be in the final configuration. I have been told that the external finish will be better on the actual units. Also, the crankshaft bearing and rods will be more durable than those on this demonstrator.
I had hoped to be testing a unit that is an actual production sample, but because this is a demonstrator unit, bear in mind that the shipped product may differ from what I am testing. This does affect my ability to report whether the machine is a thumbs up or down. If the production units are worse than what I’m testing, I certainly wouldn’t be happy, nor would our forum members. On the other hand, I am getting very appropriate and encouraging responses from the manufacturer regarding my findings. Mr. Wang (Sincere) is actively improving the machine based on my comments.
For instance, he was ready about make changes regarding current draw based on my measurements. I don’t think changing the current draw would be worth it, if it slows the compressors. Also, the amount of oil I see in the condensate was already a known issue on this demonstrator. They already have a different component that cuts the oil bypass to 1/3 what I’m seeing. The oil bypass even on this demonstrator isn’t horrible. He’s also planning how to integrate the air filter on the compressor frame. It’s that type of desire to make a better product that I want in a manufacturer.
Rather than the demonstrator being perfect and production machines worse, we could end up with better production machines. However, I can only report what I am seeing and won’t speculate on what will actually ship to you. On the other hand, I have the impression that Mr. Wang actually does intend to deliver what he promises.
Main Topic Posts Index
Unpacking, Parts, Feature Details
http://www.talonairgun.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=52&t=35990&sid=25a9f57107862238e05a475ca0efe908#p371780
Oil, Water, Initial Run-in
http://www.talonairgun.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=52&t=35990&sid=25a9f57107862238e05a475ca0efe908#p371781
Rifle Air Cylinder Filling Test
http://www.talonairgun.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=52&t=35990#p371782
Great White CF Tank Top Off & Fill From Empty Tests
http://www.talonairgun.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=52&t=35990#p371783
24 Hour Torture Test
http://www.talonairgun.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=52&t=35990#p371784
All Replies
Yes, the offer in the other thread is a valid one from Sincere via his associate, Bosun.
I’m glad they went with a special price offer instead of their original “group buy” idea. Introductory pricing came out nicely too, in my opinion.
Yes, you can use anti-freeze. In fact they specify using antifreeze. There wasn’t a statement as to what proportion antifreeze vs water. I used 1:4 mix of anti-freeze : distilled water for testing. Also, the residual coolant that was already in the test unit definitely was tinted by its antifreeze content.
Dj thanks , I am in Ottawa, about 40-60 minutes away from you, PS are you going to fill scba tanks or straight to your a/gun . roger
Roger,
I think one of the youtube video’s of the Carette did in fact show them injecting with antifreeze.
Also yes, I plan on purchasing one…..that looks like at least 2 of them are headed to Illinois!….I’m in Plainfield (western suburbs)…
DJ
DJ , thanks ,its good to know, question, maybe already stated , but I’m not sure, can antifreeze be used in this compressor ? I am in Illinois & don’t keep the shop heated constantly. I assume from your post’s you are getting one ? roger
I’m not Guy, but yes….it’s valid
I have been communicating with Bosun via email
DJ
Translating for him a bit…”Group buy” isn’t what we usually mean on the forums. It’s not 100 buyers to purchase 100 units all at once. It just means the price is limited to 100 who can buy at that price.
Bosun just gave me word they will be listing a special offer for fully configured (PMV & auto drain) will be listed for about $1500 including shipping.
This will be limited to first 100 orders.
Hi Guykuo, I just want to confirm that this is the latest updated & optioned compressor deal that Bosunhu has made a separate post on this forum ,? at least in you opinion . I am really interested, thanks , roger http://talonairgun.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=52&t=36294
Haha….yep….this forum needs big ass happy face “LIKE” button!…. :biggrinn:
DJBriez, if you do get a Carrette, the one thing about tear downs is that you really should NOT open the high side cylinder willy nilly. The high pressure cylinder head’s four bolts go through stainless steel washers that MUST be replaced. They are only SINGLE use. If you try to reuse them, you will see coolant seep up around those bolt heads. I tried when I did the tear down. New washers deform to create the correct seal.
Fortunately, there really isn’t much reason for an owner to take that cylinder apart until late in the compressor’s life span. There aren’t any rings to service. I had to open the high pressure cylinder to evaluate the condition of the cylinder after its 24 hour torture test. A normal user should just leave that alone.
Also, SOP should be to run the compressor with the bleed valve open for 3-4 minutes after each use.
That will ensure any residual moisture in the cylinders is blown out. I am now doing this with my Bauer Jr as well.
If this Carrette had existed just over a year ago, we would both know a LOT less about compressors and I would not own a Bauer. I guess we can thank Mrodair. 🙄
I am just waiting on the final price…..believe me….I can put it through it’s rigors…especially after owning another certain compressor, with about a million tear downs!
I now know more about compressor architecture than I ever wanted to!
DJ
Yes. They really need to get this into some other people’s hands.
RIght now, all I can find is well…. me.
In another week I hope we hear from the demo unit’s new owner, but that is up to him.
I think it makes sense ( if they are confident enough ), to start at low price. The more customers they have, the more reviews the will get. If reviews were positive, I think its free advertisement.
Then, they may go for a reasonable higher price.
I’m pretty sure they will end up at that (or lower) including shipping and with warranty.
However, I doubt they can do an entire 100 units that low.
We’ll have to see Sincere’s official word via Bosun.
It turns out it WAS supposed to be a group buy. 100 orders would have been needed for everyone to receive their compressor. I put a monkey wrench into that. Ooops! But, I think an intro deal is better anyways.
They are now deciding on the pricing and how many units will be available at the special price. I think it is going to be good introductory price. Remember, these are built with better spec parts. They can’t be expected to price toe to toe against junk compressors. Even, so, I have the impression what they announce will be enticing to the lucky ones that get in on the intro.
If there will be a warranty, and they will keep the price to $1500 or lower :winkn: , I will certainly take it.
Other wise, I might save up more and go for a bauer.
He said (not official word)….
It turns out it WAS supposed to be a group buy. 100 orders would have been needed for everyone to receive their compressor. I put a monkey wrench into that. Ooops! But, I think an intro deal is better anyways.
They are now deciding on the pricing and how many units will be available at the special price. I think it is going to be good introductory price. Remember, these are built with better spec parts. They can’t be expected to price toe to toe against junk compressors. Even, so, I have the impression what they announce will be enticing to the lucky ones that get in on the intro.
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Thanks for Chiming in Guy….
Roger, I have 3 SCBA thanks 2 66 cu ft and 1 88 cu ft….( have scuba also, but no longer in use)…..Sounds like a lot of air, but consider this…I have 32 PCP rifles!….
DJ