Every truck driver has probably experienced having a flat tire in the middle of nowhere without the necessary equipment or tools to fix it. It might have happened a few times before you realized you had to take action.
There must be an onboard air compressor. That comes in handy if your tires are flat and you’re stuck somewhere. It is essential for both your safety and the efficient use of gas. You can also use it to inflate your camping supplies. So what to look at in the first place while looking for the best onboard air compressor?
While searching for the finest air compressor for truck tires, numerous important factors must be considered. Power, usability, and dependability are crucial. Also, its ability to perform successfully in an emergency is crucial. Moreover, portability is essential, so look for something small, lightweight, and easy to move without sacrificing performance.
I’ve compiled a list of the most popular 9 best heavy-duty air compressors for trucks so you can find one that suits your needs. A detailed review of each of them is given to simplify your research.
A buying guide and other frequently asked questions about this have also been added. Hence, look at the compressors, which in my opinion could be good possibilities to satisfy your needs.
DIYers Pick: 5 Best Onboard Air Compressors
| Image | Product Name | Specification | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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ARB CKMA12 On-Board Air Compressor | Color: Multicolor Voltage: 12 Volts Power Source: Corded Electric Item Weight: 7.7 Pounds Customer Reviews: 4.7 |
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VIAIR 88P – 00088 Portable Compressor Kit | Color: Silver Voltage: 12 Volts Power Source: Corded Electric Item Weight: 4.5 Pounds Customer Reviews: 4.7 |
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VIAIR 300P Air Compressor Kit | Color: Silver Voltage: 12 Volts Power Source: Corded Electric Item Weight: 8.7 Pounds Customer Reviews: 4.7 |
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Smittybilt 5.65 CFM Air Compressor – 2781 | Color: Black Voltage: 12 Volts Power Source: Corded Electric Item Weight: 21 Pounds Customer Reviews: 4.7 |
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TIREWELL 12V Tire Inflator | Color: Silver Voltage: 12 Volts Power Source: Battery Powered Item Weight: 7.9 Pounds Customer Reviews: 4.3 |
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If you don’t know how to increase CFM on air compressor, see helpful guide here.
Now let’s see each of the compressors’ detailed reviews below.
ARB On-Board Air Compressor
Highlight Features
- Made entirely of engineering-grade materials that are lightweight and strong
- High-quality parts for a quiet operation and an extended life
- Cylinder bore with hard anodizing for less friction
- Sealed to repel dust and moisture
- A heavy-duty maxi-fuse with in-line circuit protection equipment
Specification
- Brand: ARB
- Voltage: 12 Volts
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Recommended Uses for Product: Tire Inflation
- Item Weight: 7.7 Pounds
- Capacity: 60 Gallons
- Color: Multicolor
- Item Dimensions: 12.73 x 9.16 x 5.88 inches
- Maximum Pressure: 100
- Customer Reviews: 4.7
You can use the ARB CKMA12 onboard compressor as a portable one without mounting it in your vehicle. Aesthetically pleasing and lightweight high-grade engineering materials make up the entire air compressor. As a result, it is built to be both lightweight and sturdy..
Its pressure capacity of 175 PSI is sufficient to activate air lockers and inflate tires and camping equipment. It can quickly fill up to four 35 to 37-inch tires with air at one duty cycle.
The motor has internal thermal protection to keep it safe from harm caused by high temperatures. Overall, the air powerhouse under your hoods is safe. Besides, it is quiet and small.
In order to protect it from dust and moisture, it is properly sealed.
Overall, this onboard air compressor is excellent and simple to install.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Lightweight and portable – Durable – Quiet – Safe – Protected from dust and moisture | – Price – Alligator clips are a bit too small |
VIAIR 88P Portable Compressor Kit
Highlight Features
- In 50 seconds or less, fill a 225/60/18 tire from 20 to 30 PSI.
- Fully portable air compressor that is directly connected to your car’s battery using alligator clamps.
- Suitable for trucks, SUVs, sedans, and small ATVs with tires up to 33 inches
- 1. 47CFM Free Flow at 0 PSI LED/power indicator, 12 Foot Air Hose, 9 Foot Power Cable, and 3 Piece Inflation Tip Kit Included
Specification
- Brand: VIAIR
- Voltage: 12 Volts
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Recommended Uses for Product: Tire Inflation
- Noise Level: 76 dB
- Item Weight: 4.5 Pounds
- Maximum Power: 276 Watts
- Color: Silver
- Item Dimensions: 9.8 x 3.2 x 5.6 inches
- Hose Length: 16 Feet
- Air Flow: 1.47 CFM
- Maximum Pressure: 120 PSI
- Customer Reviews: 4.7
VIAIR 88P – 00088 Portable Compressor Kit is an excellent substitute for small ATVs, heavy-duty vehicles, SUVs, and cars with up to 33-inch tires. Moreover, a 10-foot power cord, a 3-piece inflation tip kit, and a power/LED indication are included with the Viair 88P Portable Air Compressor. Overall, this air compressor is perfect for heavy-duty trucks because it has all the qualities required for such a task.
Here, the maximum air pressure is extremely high at 120 PSI, and the gadget is powered by alligator clamps that are connected directly to the battery. This device has a strong 240 Watt compressor, making it a fantastic choice for truck tires. It is simpler to install and carry because it is smaller in size and very lightweight.
The sole drawback of this truck’s 12V onboard air compressor is that its inflation speed may be faster. Apart from that, though, this equipment is quite dependable and comes with a 10 foot power cord for convenience.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Quite lightweight – Great air pressure – Affordable – 10 feet power cord | – A bit too slow |
VIAIR 300P Air Compressor Kit
Highlight Features
- The engine must be running in order to operate the 12 VOLT – 150 PSI Max Working Pressure
- 2.40 CFM Free Flow
- A 33% duty cycle, and a maximum working pressure of 150 PSI
- Dual battery clamps for direct heavy-duty application with a 40-amp inline fuse
Specification
- Brand: VIAIR
- Voltage: 12 Volts
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Recommended Uses for Product: Tire Inflation
- Noise Level: 73 dB
- Item Weight: 8.7 Pounds
- Maximum Power: 414 Watts
- Color: Silver
- Item Dimensions: 10 x 7.5 x 5 inches
- Hose Length: 25 Feet
- Air Flow: 2.3 CFM
- Maximum Pressure: 150 PSI
- Customer Reviews: 4.7
Any vehicle with a 12V battery source and tires that range in diameter from 33 to 42 inches is compatible with VIAIR 300P Air Compressor Kit. It has a duty cycle of 33% at 100 PSI, a maximum pressure of 150 PSI, and an output of 2.3 CFM.
With this, you’ll experience speedy inflation; even at low pressure, it provides the same swift pace as it does at high pressure.
This air compressor type’s universal quick-connect connection makes it easy to use with a range of vehicles. The pressure gauge is situated on the tire far back, despite the fact that the power switch is on the compressor. It also comes with a coiled cable that is rather on the small side.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – High quality – Powerful – Reliable – Fast inflation speed | – Short electric cord |
Smittybilt Air Compressor
Highlight Features
- Auto-thermal cutoff switch: guards against damage to the motor
- 40 minutes at 40 pressure and 75 degrees Fahrenheit is the maximum continuous cycle time (duty cycle).
- There has a 72 liters per minute maximum airflow. rapid release of the 24-foot coil hose
- Includes a carrying bag
Specification
- Brand: Smittybilt
- Voltage: 12 Volts
- Recommended Uses for Product: Drilling, Air Brushing, Spraying, Nailing
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Noise Level: 70 dB
- Maximum Power: 0.33 Horsepower
- Capacity: 72 Liters
- Color: Black
- Item Weight: 21 Pounds
- Hose Length: 15 Inches
- Item Dimensions: 16 x 12 x 11 inches
- Air Flow: 6 CFM
- Maximum Pressure: 150 PSI
- Customer Reviews: 4.7
The Smittybilt 2781 Universal Air compressor’s motor is protected by a thermal cutoff system and a power supply that only needs 12 volts.
Thanks to its oil-free motor and 30-amp inline fuse, this Smittybilt air compressor may be used in a variety of situations. Up to 72 liters of air can be produced every minute with this compressor. As a result, it may work for 40 minutes even when not at full capacity before needing to take a break.
It is a great option for people who need frequent tire inflation but have limited storage space because of its mobility and high output. This compressor also includes a pressure gauge so you can see how far along your inflation is.
This gauge can be used to check the tire pressure. Together with a gauge, an air hose, a storage bag, and numerous hose ends for use in, among other things, inflating pneumatic beds. It also has a 30-amp inbuilt fuse for safety.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Affordable – Durable – Portable – Powerful – Optimal for off-roading | – Using the screw-on fill tip can be a little annoying |
Need to know what size air compressor for framing nailer? See all answers to key questions in the related article.
TIREWELL 12V Tire Inflator
Highlight Features
- Highest experimental pressure of 150 PSI, air flow of 2.12CFM at 0 PSI, and inflation time of 2 minutes for a typical car tire (195/65/R15, 0-35 PSI).
- Particularly suitable for SUVs, trucks, vans, RVs, crossovers, MPVs, campers, trailers, minivans, as well as for cars, motorcycles, golf carts, bicycles, and more.
- Four-rod fuselage effectively reduces vibration and noise. Rubber feet ensure the air pump stays where it is placed and does not move around during operation.
Specification
- Brand: TIREWELL
- Voltage: 12 Volts
- Recommended Uses for Product: Tire Inflation
- Power Source: Battery Powered
- Noise Level: 75 dB
- Maximum Power: 180 Watts
- Item Weight: 7.9 Pounds
- Hose Length: 16.4 Feet
- Item Dimensions: 9.88 x 4.26 x 8.26 inches
- Air Flow: 2.12 CFM
- Maximum Pressure: 150 PSI
- Customer Reviews: 4.3
The Tirewell two-cylinder air compressor is robust, effective, and easy to use. It’s a fantastic item to complete your assortment of automotive tools.
The direct drive motor with two cylinders is powerful, dependable, and effective. Two methods can be used to power it. The first is that it draws its 12-volt power from the car’s cigarette lighter. Moreover, it can be directly powered by a battery using built-in battery clamps. It can generate up to 150 psi, which is more than enough for tire pressure in automobiles.
If there is not enough pressure, this air compressor pump uses a premium direct drive engine to drive the sturdy metal double cylinder. As a result, even though the pump spins slowly, it is very effective. For instance, it takes the pump around 2 minutes to inflate a 195/65R15 tire to the required 35 psi.
Also, the dual-cylinder, direct-drive motor for this tire compressor is strong and quick. You can start your engine without getting inside the car by simply removing the hood and connecting the battery clamp to your car’s battery. It also includes a 5-meter cord for additional reach.
This top-notch air compressor features a 15A fuse and a cigarette lighter. In addition, a 1.8-foot inflated tube, a high-quality screw connection for a secure attachment to the tire gas mouth, a handle covered in sponge, and a 1.5-foot power line for use with a cigarette lighter are all included in the box.
In addition to its strength, this tiny gadget is pretty portable. It weighs just 7.92 pounds. The object measures 9.88″ x 4.26″ x 8.26″. This suggests that not only is it easy to lift and carry, but it’s also easy to find a place to put it when you’re trying to store it. It is also intended to be quiet and stable. It runs steadily and quietly thanks to the four-rod construction, and the rubber feet keep it in place.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Affordable – Highly efficient – Rapid inflating – Easy to use | – A bit noisy |
GSPSCN Silver Dual Cylinder 12V Air Compressor
Highlight Features
- Maximum pressure is 150 PSI, air flow is 2.12CFM, and a standard vehicle tire (195/65/R16, 0-35 PSI) can be inflated in 1.5 minutes. This 12V portable air compressor has double cylinders and delivers a flow of 70L/min, which is 4X faster than other models.
- The tiny twin cylinder tire pump for automobile tires includes an 11.5-foot extension air hose, nozzle adapters, spare fuse, heavy-duty cables and clamps, and a carry bag for travel. Compact 8.5″ (L) x 6.9″ (H) x 3″ (W) dimensions allow for bulk-free transportation.
Specification
- Brand: GSPSCN
- Voltage: 12 Volts
- Power Source: Battery Powered
- Recommended Uses for Product: Tire Inflation
- Noise Level: 75 dB
- Item Weight: 6.2 Pounds
- Maximum Power: 240 Watts
- Color: Silver
- Item Dimensions: 9 x 3 x 7 inches
- Hose Length: 11.5 Feet
- Air Flow: 2.12 CFM
- Maximum Pressure: 150 PSI
- Customer Reviews: 4.4
With various Unique characteristics, it is currently one of the most popular air compressors. First off, the GSPSCN Silver Tire Inflator Air Compressor 12-volt air compressor is designed to be used with a range of vehicles, including heavy-duty trucks.
It has an AUTO Shut-Off mechanism that shuts the compressor off automatically once the required pressure is reached. Overinflation and tire damage are prevented by doing this.
The GSPSCN Silver Tire Inflator Air Compressor also has an LCD Display that shows the pressure in PSI, BAR, or KPA at any given moment. Moreover, it has an illuminated nozzle that makes it easy to use in low light.
The GSPSCN Silver Tire Inflator Air Compressor also comes with an 18-month warranty starting from the date of purchase. Also, this air compressor type has a sturdy double-cylinder design. Besides, the air compressor tool’s rubber feet keep it firmly attached to the ground so you can use it with the maximum amount of freedom.
The LED lights on the GSPSCN portable 12v air compressor are bright and durable, enabling simple operation or quick repairs in the dark. They also ensure that you can be seen in an emergency so that any potential risks may be avoided.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Affordable – Powerful – Lightweight – Has an LCD Display | – Could be a little more durable |
Vixen Horns Heavy Duty Air Compressor
Highlight Features
- Any high-pressure on-board air system or other applications requiring an air pressure source can be used with this heavy duty, maintenance-free 200 PSI air compressor.
- Up to a 5 gallon air tank can be used with this design.
- The unit is shipped with a fuse, mounting hardware, and a standard 1/4″ stainless steel braided hose with a 1/4″ NPT in-line check valve. Ideal for all 12V-equipped automobiles.
Specification
- Brand: Vixen Horns
- Voltage: 12 Volts
- Recommended Uses for Product: Universal Fit
- Item Weight: 9.26 Pounds
- Color: Chrome
- Item Dimensions: 13.35 x 9.25 x 7.17 inches
- Air Flow: 1.7 CFM
- Maximum Pressure: 200 PSI
- Customer Reviews: 4.4
If you require a top-notch compressor to utilize when traveling, this Vixen air compressor is a great option. This compressor is appropriate for industrial applications because it can create a maximum pressure of 150 PSI. Tires with a diameter of up to 37 inches can therefore be used without any problems.
The high-flow air outlet is perfect for quickly inflating a great number of tires because it helps you to fill a tire in only a few minutes.
It can be used with any impact wrench and air-powered tool because its output is adequate for both. The unit comes with everything you need to set it up, including fasteners, a fuse, and a 1/4-inch NPT inline check valve on a stainless steel braided hose.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Fast inflating – Affordable – Powerful – Portable – Easy to use | – Can’t use for too long |
VIAIR 10007 Constant Duty Onboard Air System
Highlight Features
- Intended for tires up to 37 inches in diameter.
- Comes with a 110 to 145 PSI Pressure Switch and a VIAIR 450C Air Compressor.
- 100 PSI duty cycle with a maximum working pressure of 150 PSI
- Has all the components you’ll need to create your very own onboard air system for tire repair and small pneumatic tools.
Specification
- Brand: VIAIR
- Voltage: 12 Volts
- Recommended Uses for Product: Tire Inflation
- Power Source: Battery Powered
- Noise Level: 68 dB
- Capacity: 2.5 Gallons
- Color: Silver
- Item Weight: 9.5 Pounds
- Hose Length: 30 Feet
- Item Dimensions: 26.5 x 14.5 x 10 inches
- Air Flow: 1.8 CFM
- Maximum Pressure: 150 PSI
- Customer Reviews: 4.6
A 12V permanent magnet motor that produces 1.66 CFM at atmospheric pressure is used to power VIAIR 10007 onboard air system.
In addition, the compressor is reasonably powerful, making it simple to inflate large tires with it. All the extra attachments you’ll need are included, along with a VIAIR 450C pressure switch that works between 110 and 145 PSI.
In addition, a full duty cycle produces an air pressure of 100 PSI at maximum efficiency and 50 PSI at half capacity. It is a great option for labor-intensive, protracted tasks that could last for up to an hour without interruption.
The entire tire-inflation system, including a 2.5-gallon air tank, is included with this compressor. Also, this compressor’s tank is built for flexible mounting so that you can reuse it often. Finally, this compressor comes with all the instructions required for efficient operation, making it simple to operate.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Easy to set up – Quickly-moving pumps – Good for heavy work – Comparably quiet | – No tires wider than 37 inches are permitted |
VIAIR 450P Portable Compressor
Highlight Features
- The engine must be running in order to operate the 12 VOLT – 150 PSI Max Working Pressure.
- Free Flow of 1.80CFM at 0 PSI. 35 feet of air hose. IP54 Ingress Protection Rating
- Easily reads tire pressure using a tire inflation pistol, and has an automatic shutoff feature that turns the device off while the compressor is running but the tires are not being actively filled.
- Rubber over mold pressure gauge, tire inflation gun, and quick attach inflation hose. Dual battery clamps for direct heavy-duty application with a 40-amp inline fuse
Specification
- Brand: VIAIR
- Voltage: 12 Volts
- Recommended Uses for Product: Tire Inflation
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Noise Level: 69 dB
- Maximum Power: 317 Watts
- Color: Silver
- Item Weight: 13.05 Pounds
- Hose Length: 25 Feet
- Item Dimensions: 10.87 x 5.8 x 7.48 inches
- Air Flow: 3 CFM
- Maximum Pressure: 150 PSI
- Customer Reviews: 4.7
The VIAIR 450P is a superb option when it comes to portable air compressors because of its superior quality and exceptional performance. Because it is so straightforward to use, maintaining your car’s air system and tires is a breeze.
A permanent magnet motor running at 12 volts powers the tire inflation. The maximum duty cycle is 100 PSI, while the maximal operating pressure is 150 PSI. You receive a free flow of 1.80 CFM at 0 PSI.
The 200 PSI air pressure gauge on the inflation gun that comes with this item makes it simple to see the pressure rating. For your convenience, when you are not actively pumping, this gadget turns off.
The box includes a quick connect line with a tire inflation gun along with a strong compressor so you can quickly reach all four tire corners. The set of twin battery clamps, the 8′ power cable, the inline fuse holder, and the 3-piece inflation tip kit are also highly helpful in this situation.
It also includes a heavy-duty anti-vibration sand tray and a zipped bag with storage sections so you can carry it with ease.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – High quality – Quick – Quiet – Comes with a storage bag | – A bit pricey |
Looking for the guide on how to use air compressor for tires? Step-by-step guide is waiting for you here.
Best Onboard Air Compressor for Truck – Buying Guide
There are several sizes and types of air compressors. If you’re looking for a Heavy Duty Onboard Air Compressor, there are a few considerations that you should make. The following information will assist you in choosing the best onboard air compressor for the truck if you are unsure of what to look for in an air compressor.
Air Pressure
The compressor’s air pressure output determines how quickly the tire will inflate. PSI, or pounds per square inch, is the unit of measurement.
You can save time and avoid the motor overheating by inflating the tire quickly. Your car’s tires need to be between 100 and 150 psi in pressure for a compressor to operate with it.
It is preferable to select a compressor with a greater or just the correct level of PSI since you’ll receive a larger maximum PSI and have the option to lower the level if necessary.
Air Flow
Another crucial component to take into account is airflow, which is measured in CFM and indicates how much air the compressor can produce over a specific period of time.
Tires can be quickly inflated thanks to the strong airflow that onboard air compressors often have. Use an air compressor with a CFM value of 1.5 or higher as a result.
Power and Inflation time
It’s dangerous to repair or pump a tire while standing on a busy road. Thus, you don’t want to be stuck by the road’s edge for an extended period of time.
Stronger compressors are able to deliver more air per minute. Because of this, they inflate tires more quickly, enabling you to avoid danger and continue driving.
So when choosing a compressor, see that it had enough power to inflate tires quickly.
Duty Cycle
All air compressors should have a break to cool up a little when they are inflated tires. The machine’s air runtime is referred to as its duty cycle, and it is typically expressed as a percentage.
You must conduct enough research before making a choice since the duty cycles of different machines vary substantially.
If your compressor has a 50% duty cycle, its runtime and cooling down time are approximately identical and each last for 30 minutes. You can choose the right product with the aid of this duty cycle time.
Pressure Gauge
Often, these air systems come with a gauge you may use to check the air pressure. This is a useful feature because it enables you to monitor the pressure output.
Yet if the pressure gauge is electronic or analog, there are a couple of things to look out for when selecting an air compressor. Unit readouts should be available in large quantities. That ought to be accurate as well. Anything beyond 5 psi could put your tires at risk of being over- or under-inflated, which could affect their wear and tear and gas mileage. Nevertheless, below 5 psi, there shouldn’t be any problems.
Tank Capacity
The tank’s capacity is another factor that influences how regularly the compressor needs to rest. A larger tank needs fewer breaks.
The capacity of your compressor should be mostly determined by your vehicle.
You should choose a truck with a larger capacity, such as 4 gallons or more. Nonetheless, 2 gallons will also work, albeit they are more appropriate for little cars.
Size and Weight
Today’s market offers air compressors in a range of sizes. An onboard compressor must fit inside your car, so it ought to be quite small.
The overall weight of your truck will undoubtedly increase when you add the compressor. Because of this, you should choose a lightweight product so that your truck can easily support the weight.
Cord Length
The length of the power cable that is provided with the device serves as the cord length for an air compressor. Be sure the air compressor’s chord is the proper length for you before buying it; you don’t want one with a short cord.
If at all possible, buy an air compressor with a longer chord.
Noise Level
If an air compressor is being used, it would be annoying if the level of noise is too high. Thus, when making a purchase, you must select a quieter choice.
Durability
Before making a purchase, think about the air compressor’s build quality because you don’t want to replace it regularly. It is essential to search for a compressor that is designed with high-quality components.
Easy Installation Process
It can be challenging to install an onboard compressor or air system yourself, especially in case you’ve never done it before. Because of this, you should definitely choose a device that is simple to install and preferably comes with easy-to-follow installation instructions.
Instructions on how to set up an air compressor are also included in the manual.
Happy to share ways on how to add oil to air conditioning compressor – see step-by-step guide here.
FAQs
Where do I install my onboard air compressor for truck?
Compressor installation space is typically provided on trucks. It can be installed pretty much anywhere in your truck, though. Just make sure the location is accessible and not too wobbly or susceptible to vibrations.
The ideal location for air compressors might be inside the frame rail beneath the vehicle. This is true because the compressor is adequately shielded from the weather and gets enough airflow to keep its working temperature constant. The result is that the compressor is unaffected by light rain or splashes.
What is better direct drive or belt drive air compressor?
Direct drive air compressors require fewer part replacements due to wear and tear because they have fewer moving parts than belt drive compressors. They can therefore endure continuous use in an industrial context.
Belt-driven air compressors for trucks are a fantastic option because they are often quieter and make changing the speed and power simple.
Which compressor has highest efficiency?
A rotary screw compressor operates most effectively when it is fully filled (when the compressor is loaded, it is creating air; when it is unloaded, it is not). When the air requirement and the compressor’s air output capability are equal, the compressor will run continuously.
Final Words
Your tires’ lifespan will be increased if you have a good compressor. Your efforts, however, will be in vain if you make the wrong decision.
The items listed above are all among the best you can currently find on the market. Please be sure to read the buying advice and decide what your needs are before making a purchase.
