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DIJ · 07-13-2019, 10:50 AM

We're new to both Airstream and trailering. I've been reading about how we should carry a 12v pump in case we get a flat or tire pressure is too low while we are traveling. This was prompted by going to prep our 2017 Classic for our inaugural trip in May & discovering that one of the tires was almost flat, and worrying about getting stuck waiting for help out on the road.
There are so many brands, models, price ranges, specs, etc. for pumps. Would prefer a portable, not too heavy, that can be plugged into our TV. So, what do you recommend? Oil or no oil? How long an electrical cord? Any brands to avoid? All suggestions are welcome, and thanks.

turk123 · 07-13-2019, 10:56 AM

Viair period. Don't cheapen out. You will thank me.

https://www.amazon.com/40047-400P-RV...s%2C162&sr=8-4

You'll need the two coil cords that come with it.

TheGreatleys · 07-13-2019, 11:27 AM

I've been using the Kobalt 12/120v one from Lowe's for years and it's been great. Whatever you decide, it's definitely something you should have with you at all times. I use mine every trip.

Paprika · 07-13-2019, 12:15 PM

I agree that Viair is one of the best choices. Cheap compressors are nothing but a pain. However, after lugging around one of the large Viair models for years, I switched to their 88P model. It's much more compact than the larger Viair models such as the 400P, and does a fine job of inflating my truck, car and Airstream tires. (It's also much more affordable.)

daleyocum · 07-13-2019, 12:51 PM

I bring a Ryobi (Home depot) 18v drill to put up and down our stabilizers and do odd jobs around the trailer. Given that I always had one of those batteries on charge I tried their cordless air compressor. I must admit it works better than I ever thought it would.

Adventure.AS · 07-13-2019, 04:09 PM

We use the Viair 450P because of it’s 100% duty cycle, but we also use it for airing up our tires after off-roading. It also works well for blowing out the water lines when winterizing.

pteck · 07-13-2019, 04:44 PM

^Likewise. I have onboard-air installed on my tow vehicle for off-roading and boondocking with the trailer. Airing down is the single best thing to helping a TV and trailer tow through fire-road and sand, for flotation so it doesn't get bogged down and smoothen out the ride. Since it's installed, I don't have to worry about storing it anywhere either.

Portable cigarette lighter pumps can only draw so much power via the 12V cigarette. Which means they are slow and only appropriate for emergency use. To fill 8 tires to tow pressures would make me never want to air down as it could take over an hour. Especially with my larger 33" tow vehicle tires.

The Ryobi cordless is not a bad idea as lithium batts can provide more power than the 12V cig lighter. Runtime would have me a little concerned.

Portable pumps that use alligator clips directly to the batts would be a good option. Some of these pumps are a bit larger as they are more powerful too.

Viair is a great brand for any variation of pump you settle on. I have a Viair 450P equivalent installed on my TV and it's useful for so many more things than just tires on the road. Air matress for car/tent camping, balloon for kids, blow gun, etc.

StanA · 07-14-2019, 09:45 AM

We bought the VIAIR 300P. Not too expensive, small, easy to hook up to the Airstream batteries. Works great.

drbrick · 07-14-2019, 10:04 AM

Viair 40047 400P-RV air compressure is the way to go. Not only for tire pressure service but also for winterization to blow out the water lines.

Captn.Ken · 07-14-2019, 10:22 AM

I don't remember which model I have, but Viair is the way to go. It has long cable and hose so I can reach each wheel. Pressure gauge is very useful. I don't go on a camping trip in my AirStream without it. It has been worth it's cost through the years. I have had smaller units which plug into the cig lighter socket. They can't compare to the Viair.

jamieb1086 · 07-14-2019, 10:51 AM

Ditto to the Viair 400P. Just connect to your TV batteries, start the engine, and inflate up to 150 lb to your hearts’ content! One of the best accessories if not the best things I’ve gotten for my Airstream! A little pricey but you won’t regret it.

Life is a Highway · 07-14-2019, 12:40 PM

I agree with all the like the Viair. It is one of the best choices. Techno RV has some good prices and on line video’s.

I bought the new released model for Trailers up to 150 PSI. I would have gone up one size more if I had a Full Size Motor Home.

I have been very pleased with the performance and the way it stores away in its provided travel bag.

DIJ · 07-14-2019, 12:47 PM

Thanks for all the suggestions. I was leaning towards one of the Viair models, so it's good to see how many of you agree with the tech reviews. Paprika, you said you have the 88P. Did you have to add any length to the cord to be able to reach the back tires on the Classic?

guskmg · 07-14-2019, 02:03 PM

In addition to the 12 volt DC and onboard air compressors, is the option for an AC compressor powered of the inverter system. The plug in is simple, for the curbside, use the patio receptacle. For the roadside, I installed a duplex socket where the single refer socket is located. Handy, Handy!
guskmg

Adiredneck · 07-14-2019, 02:20 PM

I've had my ViAir for 4 years and still love it. I modified it by adding a "quick connect", bought a Jegs stainless steel tank, and a 6' pneumatic hose and a Milton chuck with built-in gauge. So, I can hook the ViAir to the battery with engine running (as directed by instructions), fill the tank, and easily carry that back to the 4 TV wheels, 4 TT wheels or the AirSafe hitch. Works great!

Vapilotda · 07-14-2019, 03:47 PM

ARB compressors are a great option. Not necessarily the cheapest but are very high quality and put out some volume.

Bob Peahl · 07-14-2019, 04:45 PM

Our Ryobi 18V air inflator has worked well for both trailer and TV tires. It's an amazing little compressor.

GatorDave · 07-24-2019, 10:45 AM

All my cordless tools are Ryobi. The ryobi P731 18V Will top the tires off to 75 PSI The inflator
Side stokes up a campfire nicely and blows leaves off the outside Matt Small and stores easily

robearl733 · 07-24-2019, 12:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by daleyocum

I bring a Ryobi (Home depot) 18v drill to put up and down our stabilizers and do odd jobs around the trailer. Given that I always had one of those batteries on charge I tried their cordless air compressor. I must admit it works better than I ever thought it would.

I also carry the Ryobi 18 volt (battery) and it works great. It will inflate truck and trailer tires and I use it to air up my air bags. Not expensive especially if you already have some Ryobi battery tools from Home Depot.

DIJ · 07-24-2019, 03:15 PM

After reading all the comments & checking the manufacturers specs & other tech sites, we decided to go with the Viair 400P-RV. Faster fill time than the 450P-RV & a bit less expensive. Had a bunch of Amazon gift cards so I got it at a bargain price. For those of you who have the Ryobi, I’m glad it fits your needs, but if it has a top psi of 75, it can’t fill my tires. The ones on my 2017 Classic are rated at 80 psi.