Community Forums

JohnH · 10-05-2009, 02:21 PM

I am considering a portable tire inflation compressor. The Interdynamics 120v power air looks like it will do the job and is priced right, about $40. I'd like to have something available on board since gas station air is not always easy to reach with the RV. At the same time needing air is a "once in a while" event and not something I want to spend a lot on.

Has anyone used one? Opinions?

One specific possible problem that I noticed is that the inflation chuck is permanently fixed on the air hose. You can not replace it with a dual-footed chuck to reach the outer dually tire. That being said, the chuck provided does have a lever to lock it on the valve and it LOOKS like it might manage to be attached to the outer wheel. The package in the store is sealed and so I can't take it out to try it first. I'm hoping someone else may have already tried.

Wayneey · 10-05-2009, 11:15 PM

Hi John,

Take a look at this thread: http://www.irv2.com/forums/f86/air-c...ors-57497.html

It may provide some useful information for you.

Wayne

EngineerMike · 10-05-2009, 11:27 PM

You can probably cut the factory fitting off the hose and add your preferred end to the hose (like the dual footed type). You could even change the end for a quick connect chuck type then use any type of fitting you choose.

Gary RVRoamer · 10-06-2009, 02:39 PM

A small compressor like that won't deliver much volume of air at higher pressures. If you need more than a pound or two at something like 80-100 psi, you could spend quite a while waiting for it to pump it up.

It's simple to deliver high output pressures but not to produce a large air flow (CFM). That takes more hardware and that's where the low priced compressors fall down.

RustyJC · 10-06-2009, 02:57 PM

Having had a portable compressor lock up and strip the geartrain while topping up the spare on the side of Interstate 45 after a blowout, my only advice would be:

If you're going to rely on it to get you out of a jam, don't cheap out!

I now carry a Campbell Hausfeld pancake (tankless) compressor.

JM2CW

Rusty

EngineerMike · 10-06-2009, 03:30 PM

There is a nice compact DeWalt compressor @ HD that has a tank pressure of 200psi, and a Rigid that goes 175psi. These two are good choices for tire pressures; each has regulator to dial down the output pressure.
Also, you can permanently mount either by dividing the tanks & regulator & compressor into parts, & replumbing as needed for your space. I'm thinking of installing the DeWalt compressor plus regulator/gauge package but going to a remote aluminum tank for weight and putting the gauges/switch control where they are handy. The space behind my steering box is just wasted otherwise; why not carry a real compressor there with an air chuck plumbed to the front & one to the rear patio side?

Floridakamper · 10-06-2009, 05:25 PM

I've tried a number of small compressors and found them all wanting. I just purchased a 12 volt, high volume, 150 psi compressor from Harbor Freight and used it yesterday to top off all my tires. I like it so far. Take a look.http://www.harborfreightusa.com/usa/...bCategoryName=

Mothership · 10-06-2009, 07:27 PM

Check out the Air Lift air compressor. It's pricy, but works VERY well. It comes will all the fittings, extra hose, gauges and is a very small unit that is easy on storage space.

Theberrys · 10-06-2009, 08:11 PM

Thanks Floridaguy

I found that compressor in the Harborfreight Insiders Track section for $49.95. Ordered it streight away.

Dick

Bruce H · 10-13-2009, 12:11 PM

Check out VIAIR compressor. they are pricy but they will do the job. Check out Amazon and read the comments. I have used those cheap models over the years and they take forever to add 2 or 3 pound to an RV tire, plus they won't last.

Floridakamper · 10-13-2009, 01:49 PM

On the Harbor Freight compressor that I purchased, I also bought their 2 year replacement plan for ten bucks because I've also burned out a number of the cheap ones. In the store where I bought it, the clerk said even if I think it might not be running correctly before the two year point, bring it back and get a new one.

Mothership · 10-13-2009, 04:12 PM

I agree with Bruce H; I too have bought a less expensive tank type compressor and it is now it's in my garage.

Spend your hard earned bucks on a tankless compressor that will go at least 150 psi. Good luck!

Floridakamper · 10-13-2009, 05:00 PM

I just took a look at the viair 150 psi model. It looks and has similar specs to the Harbor Freight model I posted a link to. With the 2 year replacement plan it looks like it MIGHT save you $100.