Comparing Viair Portable Compressors For A Tandem Axle Airstream Travel Trailer

Published 12/08/2023

Question:

Greetings. I have a Toyota sequoia pulling a dual axle airstream. I just pumped up a flat with a cigarette lighter pump and it took forever. This model is significantly discounted. Is it really that much better than the model on the website for 5th wheels. If it is REALLY a 400 dollar compressor, I would assume pay alittle more, and this be my last compressor ever. Your honest assessment would be appreciated.

asked by: Scheiwiller P

Expert Reply:

A typical tire inflator will have a CFM rating of around 1.5 to 2 CFM, with a majority of the little cheap ones being less than 1 CFM. The higher the rating the faster you'll be able to air up the tires. The Viair Automatic Portable Air Compressor # VA89WR has a 2.30 CFM rating and at 150 psi so it's a bit above the standard.

Another important aspect to consider is the duty cycle. This compressor comes with 33% duty cycle at 100 psi, which means the compressor can run for approximately 20mins continuously at 100 psi and would then need to rest approximately 40 mins. This has an automatic shut off though so you'd really only be running the compressor for maybe a minute at each tire, with it stopping in between.

The fifth wheel version # VA39WR you referenced has the same stats but doesn't include the same automatic shut off feature or easier to use inflation gauge. This style of gauge will make you work a bit harder to get to the exact psi that you're wanting, whereas the gauge included with the # VA89WR will give you an exact reading and comes with a trigger to easily adjust the psi instead of trying to time it right. In shorter terms, it'll get the job done but it's less convenient.

If I had to choose between the two I would go with the # VA89WR for the better gauge so there's no guess work involved.

expert reply by: Kevin C