Air compressor system basics

Thanks for the reply, ducter. I'm still gathering info, and the project is shaping up in my mind. Your diagram is a bit different than another one that I found, but there are similar principles. I keep getting different opinions from folks on the forum which tells me that their setups WORK. Then there's always the old line about opinions: They are like rectal orfices - everyone has one, they're all different and they all stink except MINE!

One rather big issue in my mind is the black iron pipe. Knowing that it'll never blow out and properly fitted, it won't leak but that stuff is heavy, and not cheap! The RapidAir system looks really nice, economical, and well recommended (by the folks who sell it!)
I did find this note on the Rapid Air site: "ATTENTION HARBOR FREIGHT SHOPPERS Please be aware that Harbor Freight has copied the Rapidair system. This is not our product in their stores. We have had numerous phone calls about the poor quality of this system. You get what you pay for. Buying the original RAPIDAIR brand will provide the highest quality and longest lasting product - See more at: http://rapidairproducts.com/rapidair.asp#sthash.SmFamBsL.dpuf."

BC