Mobile air compressor for sandblasting

[JAMES NICHOLSON]

Hi all,
I recently got a 2 cylinder Lister diesel given to me. It's about a 400 lb engine so it's not an option for a re-power in a GT. It had crossed my mind to run a hi CFM air compressor with it. I have read about some 4 & 6 cylinder gas engines converted to an air compressor. I have access to a Wisconsin V4 that I could use all four cylinders to pump air and power it with the Lister.
Does anyone have an opinion or photos on converting a 4 or 6 cyl engine to a compressor and power it with another engine. I think the Lister is about 20 hp. Sand blasting in this area is expensive. Most places have a minimum charge of $50 to $75. One place wanted $ 225 just for a GT frame and hood. That's pretty pricey for just a garden tractor frame. Possibly I could get some smaller jobs from people who don't want to pay those bigger prices.
Any ideas or input welcomed, James

 

[jenkinsph]

I have seen a couple of the engines converted to air compressors years ago and if memory serves me the ideal engine for this was a slant six Chrysler. Three cylinders for power and three for air compressor.

For the Lister (hope it is electric start) I would think a compressor from an older 10 hp electric would be the right size. You need the compressor you choose to be designed for air cooled operation just as the motor is. Otherwise you would need water cooling for the compressor if using an engine for this conversion.

Might be a whole lot easier to find an older gas driven compressor that needs some TLC and do this yourself.