33 replies to this topic

[WjColdWater]

Need recommendations on a good quality portable 12v air compressor. Would use for airing up tires. 
Thanks Wayne

[CougarCouple]

Hello WjCodWater

There is a lot of different choices out there. Do a search on this site and that might help with opinions.
I liked the Viair models of compressors.

https://www.viaircor...model-portables

This is the one we went with https://www.viaircor...ables/450p-auto
Takes about 15-20 min to air up the 4 tires on my F250 from 40psi to 80psi LT275/65R18

Russ

[Wandering Sagebrush]

We use a Viair 400p, and are happy with the performance. Looks like it’s gone up in price about $45.

[TGK]

I also have a Viar 400P-RV that I've used on several different vehicles. Works great.

[craig333]

Really depends on how much you want to spend. Whoa, I was just going to recommend the MV 50 superflow as an inexpensive compressor but I just noticed they've gotten pricey now. I have a quickair2 in my Jeep but I don't think they even make those anymore. My CO2 setup was pricey but when you really want a fast fill you get it. 

[rubberlegs]

Make sure to get one appropriate for your tire size.

[larryqp]

The Air 88p works great, not pricey, less than $75. Originally purchased for my ranger, and I was concerned it wouldn't have enough to inflate the tires on my F150. Its rated for tires up to 33". The cable and hose reach from my battery to my license plate fill for my air bags. I have a 6.5 ft bed with a supercab (half doors). If you have a larger truck, you might not reach the rear license plate fills.

[ntsqd]

For years the MV50 and MV-1050 family of compressors was the best value on the low end of the price range. Since they've gone up in price I don't know if that is true any more.

 

Perhaps a rough range for what you want to spend would narrow down the suggestions?

[JHanson]

My advice is to get the best compressor you can afford. Seriously, spend til it hurts now and you'll be happy later. I've lost track of the people I've met who bought cheap compressors, used them once or twice, got tired of a 20- or 30-minute long process to air back up, and simply stopped doing it.

 

The ubiquitous MV50 is . . . not bad, especially for the price, but I've known several to fail very early. The Viair 300P and 400P are better choices, as is the ARB Heavy Duty and anything from Extreme Outback.

 

If you want to take the pro approach and never spend more than five minutes airing up, look at the ARB Twin. Please take a look here for more information on all aspects of airing down and up.

 

CO2 systems are attractive, but besides the obvious fact that they need to be refilled, CO2 can leak out of tires with time.

[TGK]

My Viar 400P-RV came with 2 accordion style hoses. I was able to reach from the battery under the hood of my F250 all the way back to the tandem axles of my trailer. No problem reaching 80psi.

Edited by TGK, 19 November 2019 - 04:25 PM.