Shellshock's DIY inflator / deflator

I actually picked mine up at menards

https://www.menards.com/main/tools/...all-swivel/hfz3806yw2b/p-3289655539652550.htm

 

Gotcha. I'm sure I misread it was 3 for 19 on Amazon

 

Is there 2 different styles? They must be open if they are not dealing when I remove them from the valve stem.

 

Word to the wise - check when you are getting "closed" air chucks that they open when attached to the stem, and not open when they see air flow. If you get the ones that only open when there is air flow they won't work for this system.

 

I finely got some time today to look at the tire inflator and figure out why the chuck was leaking when it was removed from the valve stem. Turns out it was a very simple fix, a drop of WD40 to lubricate the valve and it shut no problem. I think that because I opted to use ¼ inch hose vs. the ⅜" hose, that there isn't enough flow to reseat the nice new valve with tight tolerances, so a little lubricant and the valve shuts perfectly now.

 

I've got a smittybilt compressor and I could've sworn it said only use open hose accessories. Is that something I'll need to factor into a build like this or is there no concern?

 

The only thing with using closed chucks is you either need a way to bleed the line or be prepared for it to drain when you disconnect the hose after you are done.

 

So a closed system won't damage the compressor itself, I just have to be wary that the line is pressurized when I turn the compressor off and start packing it up?

 

Technically if it isn't closed, then it isn't a compressor system. It's an Air pump. Whenever I am finished with my compressor and hoses, everything get drained. Not reason to leave it charged.

 

I don’t see how it could. If the compressor doesn’t have a pressure shut off switch, then you’ll want to make sure the compressor gets shut off and doesn’t just pump up the air line. Outside of that, it’s really no different than an open system.

 

It doesn't have a pressure-based switch, just temperature. I checked the manual and online and can't find confirmation from Smittybilt that you shouldn't use closed chucks. But without a pressure switch, it sounds like if I'm not inflating anything then the compressor will just keep at it until something explodes or I turn it off. So...I either need to get a different compressor or find a pressure switch. A cursory google hunt has revealed it's possible but no leads on the specific model yet or how it works.

 

Or you just connect all the hoses, turn compressor on, reach desired pressure, turn compressor off. Switch tires. Repeat.

It’s not really an issue, it’s just you need to be aware of it. There’s lots of compressors out there without pressure switches in them.

if you don’t want to turn the compressor off, you could also either get another fitting and valve or a gauge that has a bleed function that you can use to open the line

 

Thanks for the juicy info!

 

Has anyone done a time trial yet?

 

I’ve compared with buddies when we start at the same time. I also like being able to stand around instead of touching each tire individually. Plus the equalization side to side is great, especially if you ever look at the readout in the mfd

 

That clamp tool is awesome. I think I need that. Any recommendation for wire gauge for general use?

 

It's a killer little tool. I like the flush clamps, esp on garden hoses and such.

I use the cheap baling wire up to the the nice 0.041in SS stuff from HF. It all works great.

 

I still need to buy that thing. I totally forgot about it

 

It has paid for itself in enjoyment. I can't even explain why using it is so satisfying.

I keep meaning to get an Oetiker clamp tool, but it is rare that I need those. Less than a handful of times. So easy though.

 

Great DIY project - and very useful... The biggest hurdle is airing down in the time spent (mostly airing-up!). This is great!