Onboard Compressor vs portable compressor

sgtjoe · 10-09-2010, 09:13 PM

I have a Husky Scout compressor that puts out 2.0 CFM @ 90 psi, but it isn't working anymore. So I'm wondering if I should replace it or should I just use the onboard compressor in my MH?? Anyone know what CFM it will put out at 90 psi?? Anyone using their onboard compressor to air up their 22.5 tires?? Does it handle it ok or is it really more of a pain then it's worth??

OneRVer · 10-09-2010, 09:46 PM

There are a lot of rigs out there using their on board system. I have never heard of any complaints. I wish I had one. The portable would be one less thing I would have to pack.

**Route 66** · 10-10-2010, 05:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by OneRVer

There are a lot of rigs out there using their on board system. I have never heard of any complaints.

I disagree.

We have many posts by members, me included, who have found the onboard air system does not have enough pressure or is too impractical when pressures over 100 PSI are required.

A search will find more info.

Techie · 10-10-2010, 06:03 AM

If you're just topping off and are under about 100psi you should be OK. We're looking into an air doubler system from Dickman's Tire as we need 120 in the fronts.

CaptPat · 10-10-2010, 06:41 AM

Viair makes a relatively small DC air compressor for RV's, it goes up to 150psi. Seems to work well for me.

**Gary RVRoamer** · 10-10-2010, 08:04 AM

In my experience those small DC compressors don't deliver much air volume. On a big tire, it can take forever to add a couple pounds. The Viair is a quality unit, though, and the usual models deliver about 0.7 cfm @ 120 psi. That's not fast, but its adequate. Much better than the typical Walmart or Autozone models.

It's easy to get high pressure from a compressor - it's simple mechanical advantage. Getting high volume at high pressures takes a lot more and thus drives the price way up.

Norm4015 · 10-10-2010, 08:23 AM

I have owned two diesel motorhomes and with both I could not pump tires over 110 pounds. That is OK since I don't need more than that, but those last few pounds seem to take forever. So I carry a large compressor that can over-inflate my tires easily in a couple of minutes.

One problem with the onboard compressor is the engine must be running the entire time you are using it. I like to pull my portable compressor out of the basement and air up the RV and toad tires, blow dirt out of the radiator and dryer vent, and connect my air powered grease gun to lube the chassis.

Many times when I have it out a neighbor will ask to use it and one time I watched it going down a row of motorhomes before it was returned to me.

azloafer · 10-10-2010, 08:39 AM

Using coach air has not worked for us because the pressure is not high enough and I do not like to keep the coach idling long enough to do all six tires. Joe

sgtjoe · 10-10-2010, 08:49 AM

Thanks for all the responses. It looks like I need to fix the Husky or buy another one instead of bothering with getting into the MH system.

You all have been helpful so lets see what you can do with this.

My Husky Scout will work as long as I'm inflating while the compressor is running. Once it stops running and I go to inflate a tire it hums and then blows a fuse. Any thoughts as to what the problem may be and would it be worth it to repair it?

OneRVer · 10-10-2010, 12:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CaptPat

Viair makes a relatively small DC air compressor for RV's, it goes up to 150psi. Seems to work well for me.

Ok I am wrong on the on-board system. My neighbor has one and he likes it but sounds like he might be the only one. However I also have the Vair 300033, 2.4 cfm, 150 psi max. I have gone from 90 psi to 110 psi in a matter of minutes. The only problem is the gauge only goes to 100 psig so you have to use your hand held pressure gauge. The only thing wrong with it, it is another American product made in China.

ccook129 · 10-10-2010, 07:23 PM

For less than $300.00 I installed this one under my rig and it has worked well for 3 years.150psi compressor 3 gallon tank and 25' hose,plus gauge.
Firestone Remote Fill Station (Heavy Duty) #2239

KIX · 10-10-2010, 08:33 PM

I guess we're lucky....we use the engine driven compressor without any problems. Our tires are Michelin 275-80 x 22.5". The fronts are set at 98 psi and the rears at 90 psi. That is per the Michelin load/inflation table plus a couple extra psi. Our wheels are only rated at 120 psi.

Spikester · 10-11-2010, 12:03 PM

I use my onboard system, works fine for me. If I need pressure over 110#, I put the chuck on the tire valve stem, which makes the tire part of the tank, then have the DW start the engine, which starts the compressor which fills the tank and tire to the desire pressure up to 150#. A little bit more trouble, but no more than messing with independent compressor stored away somewhere in the MH.

Spike

smokey_truck · 12-14-2010, 12:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sgtjoe

I have a Husky Scout compressor that puts out 2.0 CFM @ 90 psi, but it isn't working anymore. So I'm wondering if I should replace it or should I just use the onboard compressor in my MH?? Anyone know what CFM it will put out at 90 psi?? Anyone using their onboard compressor to air up their 22.5 tires?? Does it handle it ok or is it really more of a pain then it's worth??

Please check extreme outback compressors, they even run impact wrenches