Ok I really want to start using some compressed air to help clean my rc cars when I'm done bashing, but really don't want to spend the cash on a air compressor just for this purpose. Could I use a small air tank and just fill it up at a service station every once in a while or would that just run out to quick? Even if it would be enough to clean one car it would work for what I want it to do.

that idea realy isnt worth the trouble you can get a 1 gallon compressor for under $100 new (sears hardware stores has one here in houston for $89) and cheaper used if you check pawn shops

The tank Idea won't work. You'll only get about 15 seconds worth of air out of a 5 Gal portable tank. I belive that Home Depot has a small unit for $89 well worth it though, Compressed air is the absolutlely best way to clean em up after a day out.

I've got pm's from others that say it will work and work fine. Also a $18 tank is a big difference vs. an entry level small compressor for $100 so I think it is definitely worth a try. I've asked a few local people now and they say it should be good for at least 1 car cleaning. Have you guys actually tried this? What psi did you fill the tank to and what size tank.

I have a 25 GAL tank on my compressor. I can tell you that it is just enough when I start with a pressure of 125 PSI on the tank.
There is a big difference between $18 and $85 but in the long run you'll thank yourself for buying it. However if $85 is just way out of your budget, I have 2 kids under the age of 5 so belive me I understand how tight money for the big kid toys can be. Go ahead and get a 5 Gal tank until you've got the cash to upgrade. My brother had a setup like the one you're describing that he fills at home with a $25 compressor he bought a Lowes. It works OK but he spends more time rechaging it than actually using it.

Yeah I went out tonight to get the tank, but then saw a decent smal compressor next to it for 89.95 and I thought how much more convenient that would be, but then I think to myself if I'm going to buy a compressor it might as well be a decent size one so I can use it for other stuff like air tools! Go figure! So now I'm thinking of spending $200! Oh well I tried to save some cash, but it never works

Buying an air compressor is one of, if not the best investments I've ever made in tools. My only regret is that I didn't buy a bigger one. My 3 HP Campbell Hausfeld compressor just doesn't quite cut it when I try to use my DA sander or a die grinder for extented periods. Oh well I've had it almost 15 years and I still haven't managed to wear it out so I can't justify buying a new one. One of these days I'd sure like to get a 8HP with a 60 Gal tank.
I know $200 is a lot of cash to spend to clean your RC car. But I promise you will find so many uses for it. Compressors have really come down in price too. I spent $375 on mine in 1988 dollars.

Good luck

NITROZ