Needed a smaller compressor for the jobsite. Found the Porter Cable pancake model on sale at both big box stores. 0.8hp 6 gallon 120 volt.
$129.00 down from $169.99

better off spending an additional 100 and get a Rollair
it is not a pancake but same idea, small light and it is so quiet you would not believe it is oil-less. It has 2 pistons I believe.
I have one and am glad I bought it.
It's always great to save some money, but if you are going to have it for a while, you might as well get what you pay for

You can get them at that price quite frequently.....I have gone through 3 of them in 10 years and never paid more than $129.99.....the one I bought a year ago I got for $99. To Bruces point.....yeah.....they do not last too long!

I have had my twin tank Campbell Hausfeld for ten years or more. Can run three framers at a time. This is for a single finish gun as I am enclosing an antique fireplace with a wall,, closet, and period mantel. House built in 1760s, so getting twin tank up the narrow winding stairs is not an option, nor is taking out windows, which is what we do in warmer seasons. 30# vs 58#. Will work for me.

and you may just get 8 years out of it if it's not in regular use like you say. At our age, lighter is always better.

my Emglo hardly ever sees any use

My Dewalt Emglo served me well, but it doesn't like cold weather

I use this little guy, had it for about 8 yrs now, love it,
http://www.amazon.com/Makita-MAC700-Big-Bore-Compressor/dp/B0001Q2VK0

I use this little guy, had it for about 8 yrs now, love it,
http://www.amazon.com/Makita-MAC700-Big-Bore-Compressor/dp/B0001Q2VK0
exactly what I use don for light framing,roofing to finish work.

From the guy who repairs my tools, which isn't much because I take care of them. Would you run your car with no oil? The why run a compressor with no oil. Hence that's why they don't last that long.

That Makita is still 52 lbs. I was in need of one I could get up a narrow turning antique stairwell, without damaging walls or trim, and this fit the bill. Weighs in at 30 lbs. so it is a portable unit for light/medium duty. It will be perfect for me as a second compressor. The cost is priced into the job.
Larry, are you draining down the tank after using? How have your past ones failed? This has a two year warranty....