Is VIAIR the portable compressor to get?

Well, this is a truck forum, and all those tests were performed on car tires. I highly doubt any of these compressors would fair that well against even a stock sized truck tire.

I consider anything from Harbor Freight to be "single use" tools. If all you need is something to use, maybe once or twice in an emergency, yeah, it'll probably work for you.

But if you want something that you know will work time and time again, the 88p is easily the best choice to get. And at ~$65, it's not even that expensive. For off-roading, I'd definitely recommend going to the 300p or 400p. I have the 400p and it's great.

 

Fair enough. First time new truck owner here...

 

True true.. That said, the 88p gets a lot more than "warm"... It gets so unbelievably hot that it's dangerous. If I grabbed the top of it after topping off 2 tires, I would absolutely get a 2nd degree burn on my hand. But ur right, that's my fault for getting something not rated for a big truck tire. I guess the point I'm trying to make is I see a lot of people here recommend the 88p for our trucks. And while it's a nice affordable option, it's in no way what I'd "recommend" anyone buy. The bigger better Viair's, absolutely, but not the 88p.

 

I have the

$103 Viair 88P Portable Compressor Kit (12V, 120 Psi, Forup to 33" Tires)

Viair 88P and it gets the job done, but definitely not the best unit out there. It will fill 31" tires from about 15psi-35psi in about 15-20 minutes, but it will consistently blow fuses if you attempt to inflate an extra set of tires. Also the unit gets scorching hot and it's a PIA to reach the RR tire with the equipped air hose. I would probably spend the extra coin and get a better unit if you're in the market.

 

I upgraded to the 300p after using the 88p for a couple years, I love it. Highly recommend. Doesn't get as scorching hot and I've yet to blow a fuse on it. Blew a few fuses on my 88p. And it's almost twice as fast on my 33" tires going from 15psi to 35psi

 

Just used mine for the first time this past weekend, great device. Filled up right around 10min

 

The MV-50 is a great little compressor for the price: http://www.lowrangeoffroad.com/superflow-mv-50-air-compressor-mf-1050-mv50.html

 

I have one and after 3 years and many many uses it needed a new cylinder and piston. I took it to Viair and they completely disassembled my compressor , double checked every part , installed a new cylinder and piston kit , and gave me a info sheet on all the parts . When i went to pick it up they didnt even charge me !!!! I was super stoked , needless to say I highly recommend them.

 

That's some serious customer service right there!