Posted by Don on July 26, 05 at 08:41:02:
Most county beach parks here on LI provide hi-volume air compressors to assist in speedy air-ups when leaving the beach. I say most because I found one without public air this weekend....Had 2 "cigarette lighter" compressors with me going full tilt trying to get the 265/75-E tires from 20 back to 80R/60F (had trailer with me).
The smaller unit got one front tire to 45 and started to smoke, wound up in trash. Second was a "Truck Air" brand, and managed to do all 4 tires after 2 full hours running. Lucky it didn't fry.
Anyway, got to looking at alternatives. Was considering a small air-tool-type pancake compressor to run with generator, then saw these on-board air systems (see link).
Haven't been under truck to see where air tank might go, but am guessing there's room inside the frame rails forward of the gas tank. I think I can get the compressor tucked under the hood over the RF fenderwell. Anybody done anything like this or know anybody that has? Wonder if underhood temps too high for compressor to run efficiently?
Also considering similar compressor they make in a "portable" version, with carry case and coil hose. Connects direct to battery with clips to support max 28A draw. Less expensive, same mfr, but has 33% duty rating (not continuous like this one). Seems like these would work better with an air tank.
Like the idea of a custom install, but other hand says portable less headaches...thoughts?
See mfr site at www.viaircorp.com
Don