Just scored this beast of an air compressor - what should I break it in with?

Hey everyone, just picked up a 30-gallon Porter-Cable pancake compressor from the Tool Discount Club sale last weekend! Got it for like 40% off, couldn't resist. It's my first real compressor besides those tiny tire inflators. Already set it up in the garage and it sounds mean when it kicks on. So pumped! What should my first project be? I was thinking maybe building a workbench or trying out some pneumatic nailers? Open to ideas!

Nice grab Carl! Those Porter-Cables are solid for the price. Before you go nuts with projects, do a quick leak check on all the fittings - I've seen more than a few come from the factory with loose connections. Hook up a gauge and let it pressurize, then shut it off and watch for pressure drop over 10-15 mins. As for first project, start simple: blow out your garage, clean your tools, or inflate all your car/truck/bike tires to proper PSI. Gets you familiar with the regulator without risking expensive mistakes.

Tom's right about the leak check. Add some thread sealant to the fittings if needed. For a first real project with a 30-gal: build that workbench. Use a framing nailer for the structure, then a finish nailer for the trim. You'll learn regulator settings, hose management, and tool cycling. Avoid running it continuous for more than 50% duty cycle until it's broken in. And keep the drain valve open when not in use - moisture kills compressors faster than anything.

Whoa thanks guys! Didn't even think about leak checks - just assumed it was good to go out of the box. I'll do that tonight. Tom, I like the tire idea for practice, my truck's been needing it anyway. Tim, workbench it is then! Any recommendations on a decent budget nailer? The Tool Discount Club has a few Chicago Pneumatic ones on sale but I've heard mixed things...

CP's homeowner-grade stuff is fine for occasional use. If you're doing a workbench, get a 16ga angled finish nailer - more versatile than a straight. And grab a cheap inline filter for your hose if you're in a humid area. Saw some on the club site last week for under $20. Prevents water in your tools. Post pics when you're done!