How Good is the DXCM303 DeWalt® Compressor?

Рет қаралды 8,003

7 ай бұрын

We’ve purchased the DeWalt® DXCM303 single-stage compressor. What do we like and not like about it? We’ll give you our honest impression.
#compressors #compressoroil #compressedair
First off, let’s get this issue out of the way. The major tool manufacturers and many retailers have chosen to offshore the manufacturing of their products. They can get entire products and components cheaper by using Asian labor and materials. Even though the main supplier, China, has very questionable human rights, labor, environmental, and trade practices, products and components continue to be sourced from China. China accounts for about 28% of the manufacturing in the world, the U.S. is at about 17%, and Japan comes in third at 7%.
Worse, many brands, including DeWalt®, emblazon branding on their tools or packaging with “Assembled in the U.S.A” along with American flag type imagery, with subtype, “With Global Materials.” On the DeWalt® DXCM303, the labeling shows clearly that the motor and mechanical items are all from China. It would be more accurate to say, “Made from Chinese Parts - Assembled in the U.S.A.”. But of course, that wouldn’t go over well.
The DeWalt® DXCM303 is also available as Husky® (Home Depot) and Craftsman® (Lowes) brands. The comparable compressor I saw in Home Depot was EXACTLY the same, down to the labels on the motor (which showed the motor to be made by Mat Industries, LLC - China), as the DeWalt® unit. All of these brands offer the same unit, from the same Chinese company, and market it as a U.S.A. brand.
I’m not against other countries, per se, but do think that you should, when possible, support the economy and workforce of the country you live in. These very large brands, which are well-capitalized, could use their funds to reinvest in this country’s manufacturing and labor base. Enough of all this, let’s look at the compressor!
The DeWalt® DXCM303 has an oil-lubricated cast iron air pump with two cylinders in a single head. It is a single-stage pump, and DeWalt says that it performs much like a 2-stage unit. The pump is powered by a poly belt driven by a 2 HP totally enclosed motor with an SF 1.0 rating - meaning it can be operated continuously.
The 30-gallon tank is ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) rated and has a drain valve at the lowest part of the vertically oriented tank. It’s reasonably accessible, but we will be improving that with either a braided reinforced hose and valve or an automatic valve to ensure we keep the moisture drained off the tank. This is a critical maintenance task, and we want to be sure we mind this task well.
The pump head is cooled both by the oil and air flowing around the fins on the air pump. Oil filler and drain plugs are reasonably accessible, but we will be modifying that in the future to make oil changes entirely convenient.
The air inlet and filter are workable but too small for our tastes. We’ll be getting a bigger filter set up soon.
Air delivery is rated at 6.2 SCFM (standard cubic feet per minute) at 90 PSI (pounds per square inch). SCFM is set at optimum conditions and always is higher than what typical operating conditions will be. We rate the actual compressor air delivery at about 4 CFM. This is determined by dividing the tank volume number in gallons (30) by 7.48. The maximum pressure for this unit is 175 PSI.
This unit is equipped with a high-flow regulator with the 2 customary gauges that indicate tank pressure and regulated pressure that you can set for the task or tool at hand. The unit has a lower-pitched operating sound and is rated at 78 dB.
The ratio of time the pump is being operated and the amount of time the pump is off is referred to as the duty cycle. If a compressor has a duty cycle rating of 100%, it means it can be operated continuously without needing to rest and cool down. Most compressors have a rating of between 50 to 100% This unit’s rating is being researched and will be updated when available.
The unit weighs 126 lbs (57 kg), with the majority of the weight at the top of the unit where the air pump, fan pulley, belt, motor, and regulator are all located. When moving the tool around, you need to be mindful that it can tip over easily. It is equipped with 2 - 10” (25 cm) pneumatic tires. We don’t plan to keep the tires mounted as we will be putting this on a raised platform in our shop mechanical area. But, they are nice to have on the job site!
When we’ve had the DeWalt®DXCM303 Single-Stage Compressor in service for over a year, check out our review on how it held up and is performing here:
COMING AFTER ONE YEAR OR MORE OF OPERATION!!!
We like the DeWalt® DXCM303 Single-Stage Compressor, but some after-market enhancements make it easier to service and run better. Check out our “Pimp My Compressor” episode here:
• 3 Best Shop Air Compre...

Пікірлер: 57

@sschapasc 10 күн бұрын

Thanks for mentioning that Tractor Supply had this unit at a great price. Almost went through the orange big box store where it is being sold for 250 dollars more. So far it seems to be much quieter than my 22 year old craftsman 26 gallon. Happy customer 🙂

@smithwesson7149 6 ай бұрын

Your great video is a reminder to me that I need to change oil and drain water from my 20+ year old Campbell Hausfeld compressor from Home Depot. Also mine does not have an air filter. I'll also look at labels to see where it was made. Thanks.

@DirtFarmerJay 6 ай бұрын

Great to hear from you! Indeed, I'm actually adding an accessory to make it really easy to get into the routine of emptying the condensation from the air tank ongoing. It will either be an extension line with the valve on the end (DeWalt actually makes one), or an automatic unit with a timer. The first one is about $25, the second one is about $125, so I'll need to think about it. You need to add a filter. Are you saying there is an air filter holder but no filter in it? Or, there's simply a threaded inlet to the air pump that you need to put a canister and filter into? Watch for another episode that will be published in under a week, "Pimp My Compressor" where we add these improvements to make the compressor even better. Best, DFJ

@smithwesson7149 6 ай бұрын

Jay, mine does have an air filter and I just overlooked it. It has never been changed and it almost looks new. Always garaged. I may replace it anyway due to age. The only modification I made was to put a three-inch extension tube for the oil drain. First time I changed it, the oil ran down the side of horizontal compressor. I like the idea of a condensation extension line to make job easier than getting on my hands and knees to do it. It was made in USA in Harrison, OH. @@DirtFarmerJay

@josephg.3370 6 ай бұрын

You make great reviews!

@DirtFarmerJay 6 ай бұрын

I appreciate that!

@Grannyhauenstein 3 ай бұрын

What's the duty cycle on this and what air tools are you running with it?????

@vaughnwesterby5162 6 ай бұрын

Jay, thanks for your commentary/rant on the “USA” made propaganda on tools these days! It’s way past time consumers ask and demand more products legitimately made in the USA! 🇺🇸

@DirtFarmerJay 6 ай бұрын

Thanks - well said! Best, DFJ

@cwcole 6 ай бұрын

Excellent overview of the air compressor and I agree with you on the misleading marketing practices. Unrelated: Why is there a bottle of Olive Garden Italian Dressing on the workbench? Is that a future review video? It is a good product 🙂

@DirtFarmerJay 6 ай бұрын

That's great that you so are observant. That dressing was used in an episode of where we show how to safely dispose of paint by drying it into a solid before disposal. The salad dressing was used to demonstrate emulsification: where oil and water are mixed together and agitated enough that they break down and blend with each other. Latex paint is an emulsion and the salad dressing was used as common product that is an emulsion too. We like the dressing too for our salads! Best, DFJ

@audiophileman7047 6 ай бұрын

Good video, Jay, but do you have any recommendations for smaller portable compressors for those of us who don't want a bigger compressor? 🤔 Could that be the subject of a future video? Thanks for all of your good videos. 👍👍👍

@DirtFarmerJay 6 ай бұрын

I don't have any well-informed recommendations for a smaller portable compressor. The "pancake" type I've seen are generally oilless to deal with the use they are most often subjected to - including being carried not level or being tipped while being put into a truck and such. This can cause issues with some oiled compressor pumps and sumps. Emglo is a brand that I've seen on jobsites. The ones I saw had two parallel cylinders situated sideways. I believe these are oiled, and designed for transportability. I believe this brand is now owned by DeWalt, but those that have had them really like them. I hope this helps, and thanks for the thanks on the videos! Best, DFJ

@audiophileman7047 6 ай бұрын

Thank you for the info on the portable compressors. @@DirtFarmerJay

@rickseyeview5345 6 ай бұрын

How is the noise level? I have an old Craftsman and it is very loud. In my small shop, it is very annoying.

@DirtFarmerJay 6 ай бұрын

We have found the sound level to be significantly lower that the horizontal oilless compressor I had prior to this one. DeWalt says the the DXCM303 is rated at 78dB. Because it is running two cylinders at the same time in a cast-iron air pump, it runs at a lower RPM while getting the same amount of work done. We find it to be a lower-pitched sound that is not shocking when it comes on. It'll be even better when it is placed in the dedicated utility and lumber storage room and the door shut! I bet your Craftsman is oilless. If it is, I feel your pain. Best, DFJ

@organza10926 4 ай бұрын

Great video❤

@DirtFarmerJay 4 ай бұрын

Glad you liked it!!

@24hourgmtchannel64 3 ай бұрын

I've had a Craftsman 919.165230 25 gallon oilless air compressor and it's performed flawlessly for 26 years and still works fine. No oil to deal with or pneumatic tires to go flat which I cannot stand on a air comperssor becuse they willl rot and go flat over time. My air compressor never gets moved so I see negative with rubber air tires on a air compressor in these sizes. The only difference would be the noise which mine is louder. I've thought of upgrading to a 30 gallon for more capacity but I'm not sure I'd see a real world benifit.

@arbyars.chicksawdust 6 ай бұрын

You keep tell me I can click a link on the screen for a video I can watch. I see nothing on the screen to click. Would you put the links under the video please. There were about three videos I would watch but did not find. Thank you very much.

@DirtFarmerJay 6 ай бұрын

Love it. We are in the process of populating all of those videos and links, but had to start somewhere and put out the first video. There is now a description attached to the video, and links there will be updated as well over the next several days. Thanks for watching and writing! We appreciate your trust! Best, DFJ

@thomasfaucette1660 6 ай бұрын

a very nice compressor i may get one in april

@DirtFarmerJay 5 ай бұрын

We've been pleased with it so far. Nice capacity, meaning fewer cycles, and when it does come on, it is not startling like the last one we had!

@williamwelch7 6 ай бұрын

Thanks Jay

@DirtFarmerJay 6 ай бұрын

You're welcome!

@zanderbyers9071 5 ай бұрын

U did your home work u r so right about the making and and pride of the USA that sticker is bs

@kenturner3268 2 күн бұрын

Assembled in USA with global (chinese) components by foreign nationals. I bought one at TSC.

@richardnantel949 7 ай бұрын

Most important info was unfortunately missed in your overview and appraisal on this unit. What's the rated CFM output on the unit, and at the standard and most common stated 90 PSI value. That same rating, as well as, it's duty cycle rating has a lot to do with both air tool types, compatability, and more importantly their working cycle times. I do however absolutely agree with you that Dewalt's USA marketing BS is totally disingenuous, misleading, and purposely worded to deceive most potential domestic customers.

@TheGuinever 6 ай бұрын

Is that because Stanley Black and Decker owns DeWalt?

@DirtFarmerJay 6 ай бұрын

Richard, thanks for this. My oversight. I've included this information in the description. Your comments spurred me on to further research and I think that another compressor video is warranted that can use our compressor as a sample, but with information that can be applied to compressors overall. Thanks for the nudge. This unit is rated at 6.2 SCFM @90 PSI. According to some compressor manufacturer and service sites, this is different than the actual CFM rating that is more closely rated to conditions in the shop or field. That is found by dividing the tank size in gallons (30) by 7.48. That results in an answer of just slightly above 4 CFM. Do you know anything about this or have a different slant or correction on this? As for the duty cycle, I'm in contact with DeWalt now, attempting to get an authoritative answer of their stated duty cycle. Most compressors are rated between 50% and 100%. I suspect this unit is going to come in around 60%, based on the uses the specs state this unit can be used for - i.e., no continuous uses like grinding or rotary sanding. I'll let you know when I know more, and it will be included in the specs. Thanks for your thoughts as well on marketing practices of "Made in USA" labeling. Best, DFJ

@DirtFarmerJay 6 ай бұрын

Could be...

@richardnantel949 6 ай бұрын

Thank you Jay for your recent response to my initial comments on your DeWalt compressor review. By chance I'd just checked back to see if anyone else had raised similar spec. questions on those issues. I was quite pleasantly surprised that you'd personally made followed up on those points I'd raised. Regarding CFM output at 90 PSI, I feel usage and selection should be divided into three categories... occasional light user, moderate usage and air tool collection above that of just nailers, light duty tools; and the more serious multi tools user that requires a more continuous air supply for 5-10 minute working cycles with heavier demanding tools such as grinders and sanders. My old 60 gal vertical tank Campbell & Hausfeld cheater 5HP compressor is rated at about 10 CFM at 90 PSI, and is adequate most of the time except for heavier and longer periods with grinding and sanding tools. There are times I'd really wished I had at least 16 CFM, so I recommend always getting the higher CFM and duty cycle models that one can afford. Additionally, once you have compressed air you'll never want to go back. Lol... and additionally most air tools are at least half the cost of AC corded or even more so than newly marketed and quite costly Lithium battery tools. Keep up your great and farmer sensible KZbin presentations. 😊

@loghome7061 4 ай бұрын

Can this compressor be laid down on it's back for transportation?

@DirtFarmerJay 4 ай бұрын

I wouldn't recommend it, unless you drain the oil from the air pump sump. If the unit is laid on its back with oil, the oil will tend to work around the rings on the pistons and put excess oil in "top half" of the air pump. I hope that helps! Also, if it's a short jaunt, then perhaps. Best, DFJ

@jonesy4588 Ай бұрын

yes , brought mine home laying in the back of a truck and works fine , they also start up and runs better changed over to 240 v

@Jayme969 2 ай бұрын

I loved your review, and agree about the made in USA bullshit claim. However, next time RUN IT! I wanted to hear it run! Waited the entire review for that.....

@randyrejer4219 6 ай бұрын

Well said Dirt Farmer Jay.

@DirtFarmerJay 6 ай бұрын

Thanks, Randy!

@thomasfaucette1660 6 ай бұрын

i cant figure out why small compressors like this have such a fast turnin motor 3450 RPM i've always herd a slower motor dont make as much heat to weaken the valves in the head

@DirtFarmerJay 5 ай бұрын

They have gotten this type of motor to be pretty efficient, and its become one of the standard type motors you'll find in all sorts of applications. On the compressor we have, the pulley on the motor (small) and the air pump (large with integrated fan blades) allow the motor to run in it's optimum range without generating excessive heat) while bringing down the RPM's on the pump side to where it is running at a much lower rate, reducing friction and wear and tear on the components, including the reed valves in the head. I hope that helps! Best, DFJ

@thomasfaucette1660 5 ай бұрын

@@DirtFarmerJay i like the big aluminum fan 9 blade fan

@Eger118877 4 ай бұрын

I'll take assembled in the USA with global components over the entire product being assembled in Asia with Asian parts. If it's assembled in the USA at least some American workers are benefiting.

@DirtFarmerJay 4 ай бұрын

Good perspective.