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The Makita MAC2400 Big Bore 2.5 hp air compressor is one of the more popular air compressors on the market. Makita is a well-respected brand and the MAC2400 is the perfect tool for DIY homeowners. If you are just starting your shopping, then you definitely need to take a look at the Makita MAC2400.

It's powerful enough to drive your home tools, yet it's built to a professional grade standard. Buying an air compressor is an investment and you have a lot of options. You may want to read our Air Compressor Buyers Guide This article will help you determine if the Makita MAC2400 is right for you.


Makita MAC2400 Big Bore 2.5 HP Air Compressor

Makita MAC2400 2.5 HP Big Bore Air Compressor Review


Company Overview

Makita produces the MAC2400 2.5 HP Big Bore Air Compressor. The company was founded in Nagaya, Aichi, Japan in 1915 and began producing and repairing light equipment and electric motors for a variety of uses.  

In 1958, they released a portable electric planer and a groove cutter. Since then, Makita has been an industry leader in the power tools industry. From releasing the first rechargeable drill in 1969, to the first lithium-ion battery-powered tool in 2005, Makita has led the way in innovation.

Their US operations are based out of La Miranda, California and Buford, Georgia, but they also have factories in eight other countries.

Specifications

  • Tank Size: Twin Stack 4.2 gallon
  • Pump Lubrication: Oil-Lubricated
  • Pump Speed: 1,730 RPM
  • Peak Horse Power: 2.5 hp
  • Air Delivery @ 40 psi: 4.8 cfm
  • Air Delivery @ 90 psi: 4.2 cfm
  • Decibel Loudness: 79 dB
  • Weight: 77 pounds

Features

  • Roll-cage construction
  • Copper finned discharge tubing for increased heat dissipation and reduced water in tank
  • Large automotive style industrial air filter for increased air intake
  • Oil sight glass
  • Cast iron cylinder reduces wear and increases pump service life

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Design of the Makita MAC2400 2.5 HP Big Bore

The MAC2400 2.5 HP Big Bore is an air compressor capable of supplying compressed air to two nail guns simultaneously. Designed with a convenient handle, and weighing in at just over 75 lbs, the Big Bore is a portable air compressor that doesn't compromise on power.

Let's take a closer look at the design of the significant elements of the MAC2400 2.5 HP Big Bore, and how they work to deliver the tool's performance.

Motor

The core of the MAC2400 Big Bore is a two-and-a-half horsepower motor designed to deliver sufficient power for industrial uses. The four pole induction motor with direct drive offers longer operating speeds and improved power.

The powerful motor runs at 79 dBs which is impressively quiet compared to other air compressors on the market.

Pump

An air compressor lives and dies by its pump. The Makita MAC2400 2.5 HP has a large cast iron cylinder pump that has given the air compressor the nickname Big Bore. This larger than standard piston and cylinder means that each revolution brings in more air than a standard cylinder, and why the MAC2400 can operate at a lower RPM than the majority of its competitors (1,730 RPM).

A lower RPM provides less noise and improved reliability from the pump. And solid engineering keeps the performance up to par in regards to CFM and PSI.

The oil lubricated design allows the compressor to operate at lower temperatures with reduced wear and tear. Both of which contributes to a longer service life.

The big Bore cylinder and piston are significantly larger than competitors and has heavy-duty crankshafts, which means the air compressor has faster recovery and increased productivity.

Makita MAC2400 Big Bore 2.5 HP Air Compressor

Air Filtration

A large industrial air filter is used for the intake air. This offers excellent efficiency and increased air intake to the compressor. The automotive style design makes it easy to access and change.

Tank

The 4.2 gallon twin stacked tank is on the larger size for personal air compressors, which usually max out at 6 gallons. The tanks can sustain an operating pressure of 130 PSI, so operating two nail guns simultaneously is no problem for the MAC2400.

The copper cooling fins on the on the discharge tubing increase the heat dissipation and help reduce water from collecting within the tanks.

Safety Features

The motor will cut out automatically if the system exceeds the maximum pressure, which is a critical safety feature that can prevent deadly accidents. This features offers peace of mind, since you won't need to keep one eye on the pressure gauge while working.

Another safety system that protects the motor is the internal thermal overload protector. If the Big Bore detects that the levels of heat are getting too high, the motor will go into overload and shut down.

Power Supply

The MAC2400 2.5 HP Big Bore requires a minimum circuit of 15 AMPs to operate.

The low AMP reduces the chance of tripping the breakers at a job site or the dreaded voltage drop that can prematurely cause the motor to fail.

The air compressor comes with a universal quick coupler to hook into power sources with a quarter-inch cable.

Performance

The low AMP draw and 4.2 gallon twin stacked tank design, combined with the powerful 2-1/2 HP motor and Big Bore cylinder and piston means the MAC2400 is built for business.

The air compressor easily sustains an operating pressure of 130 PSI and can deliver 4.8 CFM of air flow at 40 PSI and 4.2 CFM at 90 PSI, easily enough to allow for fast nailing out of two nail guns.

Makita MAC2400 Big Bore 2.5 HP Air Compressor

Durability of the Makita 2.5 hp Big Bore

Finding an air compressor that can be easily maintained and well constructed will play a big role in the durability and service life.

Construction Quality

The core of the MAC2400 2.5 HP Big Bore is its cast-iron pump. There isn't a more appropriate material for use that requires thousands of repetitive motions per minute. The exceptionally strong and high-quality cast iron material prevents premature wear and tear.

The roll-cage design protects the crucial components such as the pump and motor in case of a drop or other accident. A handle is built in the roll-cage to help move the Big Bore from location-to-location.

Maintenance

The most impressive maintenance feature of the MAC2400 is the accessibility to the cast-iron pump, which is removable for maintenance work.

After each use the water should be drained from the air tanks, and safety valves and air lines should be checked regularly. The air filter should also be checked and replaced if dirty or blocked.

Since the MAC2400 2.5 HP Big Bore has an oil-lubricated pump, you'l need to change the oil every 300 hours of operation or every 3 months, whichever comes first.

The process is easy, you simply pull out the filler plug and allow it to drain. Then fill with fresh oil to the proper level which is measured using the oil sight glass.

Of course, just like a car, it's a good idea to check your oil level in between changes and top off as needed.

Makita MAC2400 Big Bore 2.5 HP Air Compressor

Bottom Line

The Makita MAC2400 2.5 HP Big Bore delivers exceptional performance for its compact size. The cast-iron components and protective metal roll cage provides a solid build which is designed to last.

With the ability to deliver a steady, powerful flow of air it's hard to not be impressed with the MAC2400. The low AMP draw means tripped breakers are a thing of the past, and the low RPM reduces wear and helps the compressor operate at a low 79 dB of noise.

If you're looking for a high-quality, powerful air compressor that won't break the bank, then the Makita MAC2400 2.5 Big Bore should be on your short list. It delivers industrial power and performance at a size and price point that is ideal for home use.

Pros

  • High quality construction and materials designed for durability
  • Exceptional power output for its size
  • Industrial style air filter

Cons

  • The cast iron design makes it heavier than most air compressors of its size

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