Air compressors

prepilot_3ck wrote:

FIRE UP wrote:


Brian,
I've had them all. 12V, 120VAC, and engine driven ones (on many of our previous Jeeps) and without a doubt, a 120VAC one is the way to go. Yes, some of the 12V ones work but, after dealing with all sorts of air compressors for years, to me, the 12V units, yes even the Viair ones, don't do well. Now, one thing here. Topping off tires is one thing. Using those 12V units for complete fill ups or higher volume is tough on them.

I have the Craftsman 150 psi portable that many on here also use. It's now marketed by Porter Cable but, it's the same exact compressor. I'd recommend it in a heartbeat. I also have a Viair 400P that I use for backup, just in case my 120VAC one goes south.

What I carry in the Jeep now is a 10# CO2 system. The tank is an Aluminum 10 lb. unit with a fixed, 150 psi regulator. I have a 25' Flexilla hose with a cheaper air chuck with a gauge. All in all, I've got about $154.00 wrapped up in that C02 system. For your application of topping off tires, that system would last you for quite a while without getting the bottle refilled. Mine costs me right at $16 for a refill.

Below is the model of the Porter Cable I have but, I paid a whole lot less for it.
Scott

https://www.sears.com/porter-cable-porter-cable-cmb15-150-psi-1.5/p-SPM10067945020?plpSellerId=Action%20Packaged%20Inc&prdNo=7&blockNo=7&blockType=G7

Solid points. I feel like I understand the limitations of the type of compressor I'm after, but these are solid considerations. The CO2 deal sounds really awesome. Where do you get that filled? The price is pretty good too.

We have a company here in Lake Havasu City called Praxair. They handle any and all types of gas, bottles, hydrotesting, and all that. Any welding supply will have capabilities of filling CO2. I really like it 'cause you don't have to sit there and listen to those darn little 12V compressors labor to top off or fill a tire.

I also modified the valve in the cylinder so the bottle can be used in a horizontal position. It's stored that way in our Jeep. So, when it comes time to air the tires back up from a day on the trails, I just pull out the hose, turn on the valve and, air things up. I go from 10 psi trail pressure to right at 30 psi street pressure in 3 minutes total, for all four tires, DONE! There isn't a 12V compressor that can keep up with that.
Scott