Forum Discussion

Scott_M's avatar
Scott_M
Explorer
Oct 18, 2020

12 Volt/120 Volt Portable Air Compressor

For years, I have carried one of the those cheap and small Kobalt 12 Volt/120 Volt air compressors. Lately, it has been overheating the thermal protection switch trips so I have to wait for it to cool down between uses. Can anyone recommend a good quality compact air compressor that can air up 80 PSI tires? I would like a dual supply power like the Kobalt has and a compact size like the Kobalt. I do have the generator to supply 120 volts if needed, but I like being able to use the battery in some situations. May be a 120 to 150 PSI max range? Thanks!
  • I had see the Viair brand but had not been able to find any real reviews. I had not seen the Tirewell brand. I will dig further into each recommendation. We have a Class C and have a generator, so 120V AC was an option. I had also considered.a pancake compressor, but lack storage for it.
  • Viair is the brand. Extremely well built and reliable.

    I'll recommend one that hooks up to the battery rather than the cigarette lighter/charging thing.

    Go to Viair dot com, they have lots of different models. Choose one based on the PSI you want, etc.

    Also sold on amazon dot com.
  • TIREWELL 12V Tire Inflator-Heavy Duty Double Cylinders Direct Drive Metal Pump 150PSI, Compressor with Battery Clamp and 5M Extension Air Hose, SUVs/Trucks/Vans/RVs

    I have just tried this one above. Had some issues with the air hose leaking at the connections to the compressor and to the swivel. Called them and they are sending a new one to me. Will see if that one works.
    The problem with the small ones are getting to 80 PSI which, we both need. I have thought about buying a small pancake compressor from Lowe's or Home Depot but they have issues also getting to 80 PSI. You almost need two of them, one on 12 volt and one at 120 volt, so you can air up when you leave the campsite and one for the road. The 12 volt units take a long long time to get to 80 PSI.
    Looking for the answer......
    Curly

About RV Tips & Tricks

Looking for advice before your next adventure? Look no further.25,117 PostsLatest Activity: May 14, 2021