Best sub $100 air compressor?

[DaveM]

I know this has been gone over many times, but I can't find anything recent and I'm sure a lot has changed in terms of models and prices. I have been convinced of the MV50 air comps quality, but prices have risen to around $60 (from $25 a couple years ago). So that puts it closer to some other decent sub $100 compressors.

I have 33x10.50 BFG ATs on my DC Taco. I don't wheel that often and even less where I need to air down, but I want the option.

Is the MV50 still the best value, or are there other choices I should consider?

dave

[hillbillyjake]

i have know other experiences with other compressors but my mv50 has worked flawlessly on sevral occasions.

jake

[mountainpete]

MV50 is the best value for the money. No question about it.

[fetus]

Tsunami Air Compressor (also available at Pep Boys). I'm assuming its the same design/build as the MV-50 above?

http://www.amazon.com/Master-Flow-MF-1050-Portable-Compressor/dp/B000L9AD2U

[mrstang01]

I'm interested in this too, as I missed the $25 days of the MV-50.

[HenryJ]

MV50 hands down. I aired side by side with a Viair system in Moab. I was faster. I had less to air though, but even then it was at best a tie and I have enough $$ left in my wallet to buy more stuff :wings:

I picked up the one I am using in Bend, OR as an open box return for $12.50
I still have a new one (paid $25) in the box as a spare waiting for this one to die. Right now I don't see it happening, so the spare may find its way into the wife's car.

Costco has the twin cylinder version right now. It is priced at $149 , so that puts it just outside the price range.

Sam's Club has the Super Flow MV50 High Volume Compressor (http://www.samsclub.com/shopping/navigate.do?dest=5&item=383881) for $51.12 right now. That would be my first choice, if I were in the market.

[getlost4x4]

I HAVE a harbor freight model.

it works pretty good. it looks exactly like a viair compressor.

it takes about 2 minutes to fill my 255/75/17 (32") from 15 to 30 psi.

they are usually on sale for $50.00

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=93186

[motomech]

Used my MV-50 today worked perfect.

Aired my 37" tire from 10psi to 35psi in like 3 min.
I bought 2 of them off amazon few weeks ago and plan on connecting them together with a air tank under the hood.

[sdjeep]

I am one of the few who has had problems with the MV50. I have had 2. The first one never did work, so it was exchanged for another. The second one works when it feels like. Sometimes getting such a poor connection it actually deflates the tire even when on. These were both from a few years back, so they may have gotten better since then. If i could find one for the old $25 price, i might give the newer model a try. I'm still using my $15 Kragen Auto Truck Air Compressor that i have had for 8 years. It's slow, but has never let me down.

[sandalscout]

I have an MV-50 also, and it seems like a good compressor, but I don't care for the connector on it much, I plan on changing it for a standard chuck. Still, the compressor and hose/chuck change is still under $100.

[pcampbell]

I'll also vote for the MV50. Very impressive compressor for the cost.

[rusty_tlc]

I HAVE a harbor freight model.

it works pretty good. it looks exactly like a viair compressor.

it takes about 2 minutes to fill my 255/75/17 (32") from 15 to 30 psi.

they are usually on sale for $50.00

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=93186
X2 very happy with mine as well.

[KG6BWS]

ill throw in my vote for the mv50 too. considering its price, its a helluva little compressor!!

heres a link with some pretty good info, to help choose a compressor. something for every price range.

http://www.parksoffroad.com/prodreview/inflatortest/inflatormain.htm

[Tumbleweed]

I have two MV-50's bought at the $25 price. One has never been used and is in my dd pickup. The other one, I spent some time on-put on a new hose and chuck, rewired and resoldered all connections, put a better fuse holder in it. It is my trail truck spare as I have OBA from a larger Thomas compressor.
Think they are fine as long as you put a bit of time in the electrics and plumbing to beef them up. I run 37's and the MV50 will air up four of them in about 15 minutes or less. The Thomas is faster, but it is now a $700 compressor.

[soonenough]

...I spent some time on-put on a new hose and chuck, rewired and resoldered all connections, put a better fuse holder in it...Think they are fine as long as you put a bit of time in the electrics and plumbing to beef them up...
Couldn't agree more. I have the Tsunami version, and it's a great little compressor, but the wiring leaves something to be desired. I had a wire come out of the fuse holder while I was airing up after wheeling, and had to patch it up as best I could to finish airing back up. Not to mention it was like 100+ degrees out and the wiring was scalding hot from 10 minutes of constant use. Maybe I should add a soldering iron to my toolkit?

[rusty_tlc]

Couldn't agree more. I have the Tsunami version, and it's a great little compressor, but the wiring leaves something to be desired. I had a wire come out of the fuse holder while I was airing up after wheeling, and had to patch it up as best I could to finish airing back up. Not to mention it was like 100+ degrees out and the wiring was scalding hot from 10 minutes of constant use. Maybe I should add a soldering iron to my toolkit?
QST, the ARRL(American Radio Relay League) club mag did a writ up a couple of months ago on butane soldering irons. I'm thinking of getting one.

[KG6BWS]

QST, the ARRL(American Radio Relay League) club mag did a writ up a couple of months ago on butane soldering irons. I'm thinking of getting one.

ive got one of the butane models too. works so well i dont even bother with the electric anymore.

[hoser]

$100? Hmm, that is tough. I'd look into the PUMA 12V (http://cgi.ebay.com/12v-1-5-gal-air-compressor-Puma_W0QQitemZ120343797944QQcmdZViewItemQQptZBI_Fa rm_Supplies?hash=item120343797944&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=72%3A570|66%3A2|65%3A12|39%3A1|240%3A131 8|301%3A1|293%3A1|294%3A50). I know it is $200 but one could separate the tank and sell that off and bring the cost down some. This compressor is rumored to have close ties to Extremeaire or MaxAir but I have not been able to compare them closely.

[theksmith]

Gotta vote for the MV-50/MF-150 as well. i bought one from pepboys like 4 years ago and it's still working. I recently got a spare one at costco since they had them for $50. The brand new one airs up slightly faster than the old one, which i attribute to normal 4 years of wear.

I think the only other compressor under $100 that can air up 4 large tires repeatedly without dying would be the "Truck Air". I had one of those as well and it was about 10 times slower than the MV-50.

the connector on the MV-50 can be a pain, i replaced the whole assembly with a standard coiled hose and a straight flow-thru (open) chuck such as this: http://www.sierraexpeditions.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=183

[jatibb]

http://www.amazon.com/s?keywords=q+industries&rs=15684181&page=1&rh=n%3A15684181%2Ck%3Aq+industries&sort=pmrank

clicked on the amzon website and am curious which of these would be a better deal. possibly the mf-1050 (because of dual pistons and aligator clips?)
tires are235-85-16 and 30-9.5 on trailer. plus 3 other cars in the driveway.
no heavy usage but would rely on it when needed.viair,slime,mf-1050 or the mv50. thanks

[motomech]

I'm not sure why they list the MF-1050 as having dual pistons they both look the same to me?The MV-50 has alligator clips too.

One says its from "Masterflow" (MF-1050)
And the other says its from "Q-Industries" (MV-50)

[zimm]

i have a costco and it works fine. i think its another mv50 variant.

when my new fj40 gets here, im gonna buy one of those Puma 12v on ebay, and disassemble it.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/PUMA-12v-1-5-gal-air-compressor-very-handy-L-K_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQ_trkparmsZ72Q3a1205Q7c66Q3a2Q7 c65Q3a12Q7c39Q3a1Q7c240Q3a1318Q7c301Q3a1Q7c293Q3a1 Q7c294Q3a50QQ_trksidZp3286Q2ec0Q2em14QQhashZitem26 0345665154QQitemZ260345665154QQptZBIQ5fAirQ5fCompr essors

all the parts are there. no thinking required.

[Red Zebra]

Picked up an MV50 at Oreily's a few years ago for $49. Works fine. Had problems blowing the in-line fuse. Now I keep 1/2 dozen in the bag.

Used it Saturday to air up 30x9.5 from 15 to 40 front and 15-35 rear. Didn't blow a fuse. It seems to only do that with repeated on/off cycles while checking the gauage.

A finally fiqured out the guage reads +10 psi higher than acutal psi when the unit is turned off. So...I watch the guage while it's running and shows approx +10psi over my target psi...then shut it down and move to the next tire.

Hope that helps all you other MV50 users...:)

[ntsqd]

Had what I believe is a unique or at least rare failure with one of my MV-50's. One of the high current wires failed it's soldered joint on the internal relay. It did this in transit, not in use. Got it out to pump up the Spud-B-Gone (tm) pneumatic spud launcher and it wouldn't run. I removed the end cap and found the wire separated at the soldered joint.

I hadn't ever opened up the compressor, so I was pleasantly surprised to find a relay in there. I figured that I would be having to by-pass the switch.

[soonenough]

Had what I believe is a unique or at least rare failure with one of my MV-50's. One of the high current wires failed it's soldered joint on the internal relay. It did this in transit, not in use.
Interesting. I just posted in another thread about mine failing at the soldered joint where one of the wires attaches to the in-line fuse holder. I think the wiring is one aspect of that compressor that is seriously lacking.

[CanuckMariner]

MaddBaggins put me onto Costco having these so I checked it out.

I got one (Nov 6/08) for US$29.97+ local taxes MF 1052 Quick-Maxx by MasterFlow with air filter from Costco in San Marcos, CA while I was waiting for a guy to deliver something that never happened. Asked the front door attendant which aisle to go to for compressors and he phoned for instructions. They said they didn't have any... so I went in anyways, and found about 30 of them on a palate!

Tried it out numerous times while filling up tires at SnT08 as people were headin' out to go home or to Pozo. Also got a chance to try it out in DV at the end when we both filled up near Goldfield. Each time it worked great, has a long pumping time than the MV-50 and doesn't get as hot so quick. Two trucks from 20 lbs to 40 lbs in about 15 minutes, yes all eight feet!

Comes with a black zippered bag with 2 clips to hold it together and two compartments (one for the compressor with spots for the battery clamps and one for the hose/tubing and attachments, yes for air mattresses, balls, and a cleaner attachment to blow out dirt from equipment). Best purchase I have had in awhile. Very happy with it. Also checked my local Kanukistan Kostko and they will honour the warranty if required.

Somebody email/PM me as to why my photos aren't showing up?

[MaddBaggins]

i have a costco and it works fine. i think its another mv50 variant.

when my new fj40 gets here, im gonna buy one of those Puma 12v on ebay, and disassemble it.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/PUMA-12v-1-5-gal-air-compressor-very-handy-L-K_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQ_trkparmsZ72Q3a1205Q7c66Q3a2Q7 c65Q3a12Q7c39Q3a1Q7c240Q3a1318Q7c301Q3a1Q7c293Q3a1 Q7c294Q3a50QQ_trksidZp3286Q2ec0Q2em14QQhashZitem26 0345665154QQitemZ260345665154QQptZBIQ5fAirQ5fCompr essors

all the parts are there. no thinking required.

Tools R Us on MUD uses that and raves about it. He has it mounted in the back of his LX450.

[dustboy]

I plan on changing it for a standard

FYI I tried to replace the fitting, but the outlet on my MV50 did not fit a standard NPT. Must be some weird metric thread size? I ended up cutting the hose and using a barb to adapt.

[KG6BWS]

FYI I tried to replace the fitting, but the outlet on my MV50 did not fit a standard NPT. Must be some weird metric thread size? I ended up cutting the hose and using a barb to adapt.

i just used an 1/8" male x 3'8" female adapter. worked just fine on mine.

[T4Rfun]

I'll cast another vote for the MV50. I've had mine for a few months and have used it about 5-6 times. Of course a few of those times also included airing up others with me. The only problem I had with mine is that the air chuck was bad when I got it new, but instead of hassling the return I just replaced it myself. Considering the price, this little compressor works great and airs up my 275/70-17's in a very reasonable time. I'll continue to use it until I add on-board air, then I'll probably carry this from time to time as a back-up or for others to borrow.

[Salue]

I've also got the Costco compressor and it has done great for what I need it to do. And, for $30 you can't beat the price. Plus you can always return it if you have issues with it. Costco's got an awesome return policy.

Salue

[RedDog]

Valuable topic given my current needs.

Does anyone here have any experience with the Warn Air-Power SPC?

http://www.warn.com/truck/aircompressors_spc.shtml

Thanks.

[CanuckMariner]

Valuable topic given my current needs.

Does anyone here have any experience with the Warn Air-Power SPC?

http://www.warn.com/truck/aircompressors_spc.shtml

Thanks.

Hey RedDog, It has a similar look and specs to the Costco special from MasterFlow (Q Industries) but I am sure it is made better. Just wondering if it is worth the extra $200USD more? Then add on the shipping, exchange rate and GST...makes it over $300 Kanuk buks....better off buying a full duty compressor for that kind of money.

[twofortyfreak]

just got a mf-1050 myself.

i believe someone confirmed that the mv-50 and the mf-1050 are the same units, just a different model number. they certainly look the same.

cant wait to try this bad boy out.

[GTABurnout]

I will be buying a MV-50.

[GTABurnout]

Got my MV-50 from pep boys tried it out last night works great...

I will test it a little more this weekend.

[rattle&thump]

I've been running the little cheapie for three years. It lived under the hood of my last diesel, and saw all manner of conditions, with no troubles. Just put it in the back of my "new" rig, since the larger diesel I have now doesn't offer the room under the hood. Like others here, I had to do some wire-replacement, but for the cost, this thing works awesome!!

http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v2442/15/35/537117024/n537117024_2605351_4057.jpg

I put the adapter on it as well, so it can use a standard quick connect. Also have a two way manifold and some y's rigged up with a few hoses, and a bleed valve, so I can air up or down all four tires at the same time. Very handy.

[Bella PSD]

Just wanted to add to this old thread about my experience with the Harbor Freight 12V compressor. I bought the first one that aired up my 35” tires from 15-50 one time, blew fuses and melted the wires. HF replaced it with a new one. The second one died while I was airing up coming off a beach about 15 miles from town. It died a hard, fast death. One the first tire it got so hot and shut off, second tire the compressor piston locked up and the in line fuse holder melted but did not blow. I had the HF warranty, so they gave me my money back.

I just ordered an MV50 from Amazon for $47 with free shipping. I will use the MV50 as a back up to a Co2 tank.

Louie

[adrenaline503]

Does anyone know how many amps it pulls?

[Bella PSD]

30a

[winkosmosis]

The Q Maxx red one is also 30a

[irish_11]

I hate to bring this back from the dead since it's been covered, but does anyone have a good deal out there on the MV50? We wired one into my friends JK last summer and it's holding up great. Now that the smallest rig in my group is running 32's (mine) I think it's time for a second compressor. I've been looking at these on and off for sometime now and I think it's time to bite the bullet and buy one.

Edit: I picked one up on amazon for $65 shipped

[97tjguzzy]

Valuable topic given my current needs.

Does anyone here have any experience with the Warn Air-Power SPC?

http://www.warn.com/truck/aircompressors_spc.shtml

Thanks.

The warn compressor is only $129 now, any other reviews of it?

[Red Zebra]

I hate to bring this back from the dead since it's been covered, but does anyone have a good deal out there on the MV50? We wired one into my friends JK last summer and it's holding up great. Now that the smallest rig in my group is running 32's (mine) I think it's time for a second compressor. I've been looking at these on and off for sometime now and I think it's time to bite the bullet and buy one.

Edit: I picked one up on amazon for $65 shipped

For anybody esle still looking for the MV50....O'Reilly Auto Parts carries them for 59.00 $65 shipped look solid.

[Antichrist]

Amazon has them for $60 shipped. Google shopping shows them at Sams for $52. I'm not a Sams club member so can't check the local one.

[alfio]

funny how some of these products get *inflated* so fast (sorry, couldn't help it). i looked into both the MV-50/MF-150, can't find ether for less than $78. how did these go from $25 to $79!!!

[matt s]

Picked up an MV50 at Oreily's a few years ago for $49. Works fine. Had problems blowing the in-line fuse. Now I keep 1/2 dozen in the bag.

Used it Saturday to air up 30x9.5 from 15 to 40 front and 15-35 rear. Didn't blow a fuse. It seems to only do that with repeated on/off cycles while checking the gauage.

A finally fiqured out the guage reads +10 psi higher than acutal psi when the unit is turned off. So...I watch the guage while it's running and shows approx +10psi over my target psi...then shut it down and move to the next tire.

Hope that helps all you other MV50 users...:)

Yeah mine is that way too but only about 5 psi off. Once you figure out how much it's off it's pretty simple to use. Have to say the MV-50 is likely some of the best bang for the buck money Ive spent on my rig.

[GregB_00XJ]

Looks like just what the doctor ordered for me too! Any leads on where to get these in Canada?

[Redline]

Yeah mine is that way too but only about 5 psi off. Once you figure out how much it's off it's pretty simple to use. Have to say the MV-50 is likely some of the best bang for the buck money Ive spent on my rig.

x2. My gauge also reads about 5 psi low.

Even with other inflation options, I still like these. With moderate size tires they work well, are fast enough, portable and are/were relatively inexpensive. At $50.00 I could afford to put one in each truck.

[AxeAngel]

I have a new MV-50, out of the box but never used, will gladly ship it in it's new home (mil spec night vision case) if anyone can't get there hands on one.

Thanks
Sam

[Squatchout]

Is anyone here using the MV89 dual piston compressor?

[BigSwede]

funny how some of these products get *inflated* so fast (sorry, couldn't help it). i looked into both the MV-50/MF-150, can't find ether for less than $78. how did these go from $25 to $79!!!

If you can find a better compressor for the price then you can complain...bet you can't.

$25 was a ridiculous price for those...I bought two back then :) . When you compared it to any other $25 compressor at the time, there was simply nothing comparable, just those "250 psi" things that take about a day to inflate one tire.

[GregB_00XJ]

I have a new MV-50, out of the box but never used, will gladly ship it in it's new home (mil spec night vision case) if anyone can't get there hands on one.

Thanks
Sam

Interested. How muchy?

[off-roader]

I have an MV-50 also, and it seems like a good compressor, but I don't care for the connector on it much, I plan on changing it for a standard chuck. Still, the compressor and hose/chuck change is still under $100.

The compressor is designed to have an open chuck so just be sure you use one instead of a closed chuck or you may find your compressor potentially dying sooner than normal.


I am one of the few who has had problems with the MV50. I have had 2. The first one never did work, so it was exchanged for another. The second one works when it feels like. Sometimes getting such a poor connection it actually deflates the tire even when on. These were both from a few years back, so they may have gotten better since then. If i could find one for the old $25 price, i might give the newer model a try. I'm still using my $15 Kragen Auto Truck Air Compressor that i have had for 8 years. It's slow, but has never let me down.

I also had problems with mine when I mistakenly used one without its inlet filter. Ended up accidentally ingesting some sand which in turn ended up destroying the compressor.


ive got one of the butane models too. works so well i dont even bother with the electric anymore.
A Weller butane soldering iron is a standard part of my toolkit although I no longer solder connections that aren't soldered at the factory. They're better at handling off road rigors when crimped.

[ssssnake529]

For many years, I've used a hand pump to adjust tire pressure. $20, lightweight, and nothing on it to break.

http://www.amazon.com/Airpower-America-7500-Tire-Pump/dp/B000BYM4UE/ref=sr_1_1?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1324320160&sr=1-1

[BigSwede]

Heh, "adjusting" air pressure is one thing...going from 12 to 35 psi on four 35" tires is another.

[bfdiesel]

For many years, I've used a hand pump to adjust tire pressure. $20, lightweight, and nothing on it to break.

http://www.amazon.com/Airpower-America-7500-Tire-Pump/dp/B000BYM4UE/ref=sr_1_1?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1324320160&sr=1-1

Some of my friends in the Navy got a hair to use one of those to air up a 44" super swamper. 8 hours and 2 cases of beer they had about 8 pounds in it.

[GregB_00XJ]

I once won a little plastic chain store air compressor in a wee bag at a company BBQ once. I had a really low spare on my Daytona and thought I would test it out. Was at like 20 PSI and I swear it took 40 minutes to get it to 35. The whole time whining and vibrating around in circles...lol. Sad really that they were selling these things.

It go so hot it wouldn't turn on. I binned it.

Looks like I might have a new MV-50 in my future?

[ssssnake529]

Heh, "adjusting" air pressure is one thing...going from 12 to 35 psi on four 35" tires is another.

I regularly use it to make 15 psi adjustments on 345/30/19 tires, which are pretty big for car tires.

Not nearly as much volume as in a big offroad truck tire, though, so you're probably right about it being a bit undergunned for that use. (I use an ARB compressor for my truck tires.)

[fishEH]

I regularly use it to make 15 psi adjustments on 345/30/19 tires, which are pretty big for car tires.

Not nearly as much volume as in a big offroad truck tire, though, so you're probably right about it being a bit undergunned for that use. (I use an ARB compressor for my truck tires.)

Which ARB compressor do you have? How satisfied with its tire filling ability are you? I'm in the market for a compressor for my rear ARB and to air my tires back up.

[AmericaOverland]

funny how some of these products get *inflated* so fast (sorry, couldn't help it). i looked into both the MV-50/MF-150, can't find ether for less than $78. how did these go from $25 to $79!!!

Contact your Congress members and demand an explanation for the decline in the dollar's value. Your dollar is worth less than it was 5 years ago. Please look for the "Gold and Silver" thread to understand more fully why that is. Sorry, I promise not to bring it up here anymore, as I am interested in getting a compressor myself.

Should I get a compressor like that or a battery jump pack that has one incorporated into it?

[ssssnake529]

Which ARB compressor do you have? How satisfied with its tire filling ability are you? I'm in the market for a compressor for my rear ARB and to air my tires back up.

I have the portable, single compressor.

http://store.arbusa.com/ARB-Portable-High-Performance-12-Volt-Air-Compressor-CKMP12-P3573C9.aspx

It works great. I don't have huge tires on my truck (33 inch mud tires) but this compressor airs them up just fine. I have no complaints. The box is nice. I keep tire repair stuff in it as well as the compressor.

[Wyowanderer]

Contact your Congress members and demand an explanation for the decline in the dollar's value. Your dollar is worth less than it was 5 years ago. Please look for the "Gold and Silver" thread to understand more fully why that is. Sorry, I promise not to bring it up here anymore, as I am interested in getting a compressor myself.

Should I get a compressor like that or a battery jump pack that has one incorporated into it?
Not sure which jump packyou're referring to, but I'd encourage you to skip it and buy the compressor, it's probably a better unit.

[khronus79]

Found this site selling them for $57.48 including shipping.
However, they have it named "Hangyi Heavy Duty 8 Gallon 150 PSI Air Compressor w/ Tire Kit", but in their pictures it clearly shows "superflow mv-50"

[Bigfoot1963]

If you are looking at buy.com, the rest of the pictures show something else. :)

[khronus79]

^^ that's what I was looking at, didn't want to post a link or website until I was sure it was the right product.

[alfio]

Contact your Congress members and demand an explanation for the decline in the dollar's value. Your dollar is worth less than it was 5 years ago. Please look for the "Gold and Silver" thread to understand more fully why that is. Sorry, I promise not to bring it up here anymore, as I am interested in getting a compressor myself.


the huge price jump on these is not a result of inflation (or the decline of the dollar's value). these have gone up 50% in the past 12 months, has the dollar been weakened that much? no. this is an example of greed, they ask more for it because they can get it. i guarantee you the chinese workers putting these together did not get a 50% raise (in fact, their wages went the other way)

[BigSwede]

AFAIK the MV-50 has been around $60 for several years. And again, if you can find a better compressor for the current price, let us know, I'd be eager to hear about it.

[jluck]

Who would have ever though such a low buck item topic would have so much banter.....spend the 60,70,80 or ??, and be done with it. jeez.....when a compressor is really needed who is really going to give a crap if it was 60 or 100 buck if it works....:bigbossHL:

[alfio]

Who would have ever though such a low buck item topic would have so much banter.....spend the 60,70,80 or ??, and be done with it. jeez.....when a compressor is really needed who is really going to give a crap if it was 60 or 100 buck if it works....:bigbossHL:

yeah man, sure don't want people discussing things on a *forum*.... jeesh

[jluck]

yeah man, sure don't want people discussing things on a *forum*.... jeesh

I digress....discussion is great. especially helpful when a air compressor thread is started and it gets taken to politics and slave labor...

WOW....now I'm doing it.....
anyways here's the "Q" for 46.00 shipped.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Q-Industries-Air-Compressor-Portable-12-V-140-psi-Maximum-10-Air-Hose-L-Kit-/370567020032?hash=item564783fe00&item=370567020032&pt=Motors_Automotive_Tools&vxp=mtr

[eric1115]

I digress....discussion is great. especially helpful when a air compressor thread is started and it gets taken to politics and slave labor...

WOW....now I'm doing it.....
anyways here's the "Q" for 46.00 shipped.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Q-Industries-Air-Compressor-Portable-12-V-140-psi-Maximum-10-Air-Hose-L-Kit-/370567020032?hash=item564783fe00&item=370567020032&pt=Motors_Automotive_Tools&vxp=mtr

That's the HV35, not the MV50. The MV50 draws double the amps, and flows 2.5x as much air compared to that compressor. Totally different item.

-Eric

[fishEH]

yeah man, sure don't want people discussing things on a *forum*.... jeesh

Haha, exactly!

[GregB_00XJ]

This thread kick started my research on compressors and OBA again. I don't go offroad a lot, but do travel in the Jeep a lot and tow trailers etc? Nice to have for the Mountain bikes too. I have been planning on a compressor of some description for ages, and now have an MV-50 I am buying off of another ExPo Portal member.

Cant wait to start airing down just so I can air back up again!

[jluck]

I digress....discussion is great. especially helpful when a air compressor thread is started and it gets taken to politics and slave labor...

WOW....now I'm doing it.....
anyways here's the "Q" for 46.00 shipped.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Q-Industries-Air-Compressor-Portable-12-V-140-psi-Maximum-10-Air-Hose-L-Kit-/370567020032?hash=item564783fe00&item=370567020032&pt=Motors_Automotive_Tools&vxp=mtr

Yea I goofed. I was looking at many different compressors trying to actually help the OP and offer usable contribution to the thread but answers to questions are not what allot of people on this forum are looking for anyway....

[WCO]

Hey, has anyone hooked one of those compressors up to a tank with a pressure switch? I've got a 5 gallon tank smiling at me from the corner of my shop.....

[GregB_00XJ]

Not yet...lol, but I will be!

[Lostmanifesto]

Just a heads up Australian 4WD Action Magazine did an article thoroughly reviewing over 50 different portable air compressors in the issue number 169 on news stands today. Just grabbed it from B&N now.

[Phreak480]

I've got my mv-50 hooked up on a 2.5 gal tank with a pressure switch, it works great, but had to get some serious high temp hose to go from the compressor to the tank as cheap stuff failed under the heat. I really should rebuild it with some metal tubing to dissipate heat.

[Vermonster]

Just a heads up Australian 4WD Action Magazine did an article thoroughly reviewing over 50 different portable air compressors in the issue number 169 on news stands today. Just grabbed it from B&N now.

Full article online here: http://www.4wdaction.com.au/sites/default/files/4WD169%20036-054%20FEATURE%20air_2.pdf

Note: online article says print article has errors, more: http://www.4wdaction.com.au/articles/2011/issue-169-air-compressor-comparo-corrections

[WCO]

I've got my mv-50 hooked up on a 2.5 gal tank with a pressure switch, it works great, but had to get some serious high temp hose to go from the compressor to the tank as cheap stuff failed under the heat. I really should rebuild it with some metal tubing to dissipate heat.

Good call! Do you have any pics of your setup?

[Phreak480]

I unfortunately do not have any pics, I will try and remember to snap some sometime soon though.

[lam396]

Full article online here: http://www.4wdaction.com.au/sites/default/files/4WD169%20036-054%20FEATURE%20air_2.pdf

Note: online article says print article has errors, more: http://www.4wdaction.com.au/articles/2011/issue-169-air-compressor-comparo-corrections

It does look like a good review but it doesn't look like the mv-50 was in the line-up or any other brand available in the US. Are they just relabeled or something? A couple of them look very similar but it's hard to tell. Any ideas?

[dmxsoulja3]

You guys praise the MV-50 and I have been researching them and it appears that others are not satisfied with the unit and the common theme seems to be the fuse housing melting. What is weird is the older reviews are good, but the newer dated ones show problems, did they change the compressor or manf. perhaps? Amazon reviews didn't seem very positive. I'm in the market for an air compressor and was excited after reading this thread but now have a nervous trigger finger on buying one. Any info?

Thanks, J

[Lostmanifesto]

I read nothing but good things about the TJM compressor so I'm picking one up tomorrow. I'll put it through its paces and post some thoughts.

[BigSwede]

This one is worth a look...twice as fast as the MV-50 for less than twice the price.

http://www.amazon.com/Industries-MF1089-MasterFlow-Twin-Compressor/dp/B000L9D8LI/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1325907842&sr=8-3-fkmr0

[ttora4runner]

So is the MV50 still the one to go to for an air compressor?

[Squatchout]

I just picked up an MV50 from Summit Racing for around $70. I put it to use right after I got it.
http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w3/squatchout/shop%20pics/BB013Small.jpg

I had picked up a big screw in the right rear 32x11.50 BFG AT on my Trooper.
http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w3/squatchout/shop%20pics/BB006Small.jpg

I removed it and plugged the hole with a plug kit.
http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w3/squatchout/shop%20pics/BB007Small.jpg

Then aired it up.
http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w3/squatchout/shop%20pics/BB012Small.jpg

It worked fine. But I over inflated by about 10 psi. You have to turn the compressor off for the gauge to be near accurate I discovered later. Just as I was finishing up the fuse blew. I felt the wires and they were hot! When I pulled the fuse it fell apart and I had to remove the second blade with a pair of needle nose. Seemed like a very cheap fuse.

I picked up a couple of packs of good 30 amp fuses and a new decent quality fuse holder I was prepared to splice in if needed. I was also prepared to resolder joints inside the compressor if need be after doing some reading here and elsewhere. While I was at the auto parts store getting this I saw a notice on a pack of fuses about putting the fuse in straight so it seats in both clips. Hhmm make mental note. I wonder?

So next job a few days later. Both of the valves stems on my Bassboat trailer had cracks and need to be replaced. So I took both wheels and tires off and carried the them down by the wood pile. I used my hydraulic log splitter with a 4x4 block under the wedge to break the bead on the valve side of each wheel. Worked great as usual. I replaced the valves with new ones and sprayed a little silicone lube around the beads. I put a new quality fuse in the MV50 and made sure it was well seated. Big test, will it seat the beads on the 14" bias-ply's? I hooked the MV50 up on the 1st tire and hooked up the air hose and turned it on.
http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w3/squatchout/shop%20pics/BB003Small.jpg

It had no problem at all seating the bead on both tires. I did several restarts under pressure on each tire to check pressure with the gauge without issue. I filled both tires with air to the correct 50psi. When I was done I had no more blown fuses and the wires were just slightly warm near the fuse holder. I don't know if maybe the 1st time one of the fuse blades was just sitting against the clip or if it was just a crappy fuse. But I've used it a couple of times since with no further problems. I still have and will carry a couple of packs of spare fuses and the new fuse holder will stay in the truck tool box with my electrical quick fix stuff.
http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w3/squatchout/shop%20pics/BB004Small.jpg

Bottom line I like and was surprised how fast it works. I never really expecting it to move enough air to seat beads even on a small tire. But no sweat at all. Hooked up to a small pressure tank it would be even better! Hard to beat for $70!

[HenryJ]

I have had mine since June of 2005. Still going strong.

[REasley]

The issue with the blown fuses on the mv50 is usually caused by stopping and starting the compressor while the hose is still attached to the tire. Compressors don't like to start from 0 rpm to full speed against a load. The current draw to do it is tremendous. If you disconnect the hose and let the compressor come up to speed before you reattach it, you will likely eliminate this problem. This is the reason you can't use this compressor as an on board air compressor without adding an unloader valve and a pressure switch. We sell a bunch to kids for train horns on their diesel pickups who think they can simply hook them to a 5 gallon air carry tank and have quickie obr. We try to warn them, but every once in a while one will get thru.

[Squatchout]

When mine blew that 1st fuse it wasn't stopped and turned back on and only ran for about 2 minutes. The wiring in the area around the fuse holder was too hot to hold. That fuse was like a big resistor in line for whatever reason. The 2nd time I used it with a good well seated fuse was a completely different story. I started and stopped a it a couple of times just to see how it would react knowing it wasn't meant for that. No problems at all up to the 50 psi I used it for. Of course it didn't run long those 14" trailer tires don't hold huge volume.

[theksmith]

You guys praise the MV-50 and I have been researching them and it appears that others are not satisfied with the unit and the common theme seems to be the fuse housing melting. What is weird is the older reviews are good, but the newer dated ones show problems, did they change the compressor or manf. perhaps? Amazon reviews didn't seem very positive. I'm in the market for an air compressor and was excited after reading this thread but now have a nervous trigger finger on buying one. Any info?

Thanks, J

i praise it for what it is... i think the best known-to-work-decently compressor for $60. one you are ready to commit to the off-road hobby and want something nice, then i think you have to be prepared to spend quite a bit more to be worth it (i feel the range between $70 and $200 is just still not really worth it compared to the vale of the mv-50). once you can afford over $200, then i think the best value for a "serious" compressor is the Puma 12v line. and of course, if money is not an object, go Extreme Outback or Oasis (or engine powered for that matter if you can fit it).

as far as the fuse holder melting, if a $3.49 part from autozone and 5 minutes of time keep the thing alive for a couple years, then it's still a value.

[Glenn-BJ74]

I first started using my ARB locker compressor to fill my 12.5 by 15 tires which worked, but I was exceeding the compressors' duty cycle and it was extremely hot when finished, from 18 psi to 30 psi. When I got my Goodyear MTR/Kevlar 315/R16 that was whole different ball game - going from 18 psi to 44 psi took forever and a day. I had to wait to cool down the little compressor and I was worried I was burning out the ARB compressor, which is expensive and needed to run my lockers.

I bought the MV50 and it worked better and I used it for about a year, but eventually the big 315 tires burned that little unit out. I think its 1/3 hp or about 250 watts. I wheel a lot, so I am airing up maybe 30 - 40 times a year.

Last year I moved up to the Puma. The puma has a 3/4 hp 12vdc motor, which draws 560 watts at 14.2 volts (alternator output) about 38 amps. Its a real workhorse and many times better than the MV50, plus it drives a 3/8 impact gun. It has comes with1.5 gallon tank, tank gauge, pressure reducer with gauge, over pressure valve, tank drain, 10 gauge wiring and clips. Its industrial quality and will retain its resale value. I give it two thumbs up:victory:

[Karma]

HI All,
My reaction to the OP's question is "Why bother". All the cheap compressors are junk!! At least buy one made in Australia. Will they cost more? Yes. They will last and provide good service. But, they will still be slow. The Warn VTC is the way to go but have the drawbacks of expense and finding a space to mount. Still, the VTC is awesome and I love mine. But if you are still learning the "you get what you pay for" mantra, you will never listen to my advice.

Sparky

[BigSwede]

Buying the best is nice if you can afford it. But your overly simplistic "advice," applied to everything, would have me driving around a $100K rig, with the best of everything. If you give me $90K I can make that happen for you, otherwise, value shopping is key.

[Karma]

HI swede,
And how do you determine value? The only thing I know is buy cheap and get junk or buy expensive and get quality-usually. How does one figure value if you are wasting your money buying stuff that does not work well or fails. If you you know the secret I would like to hear it. I don't enjoy spending large amounts of money either.

Sparky

[teotwaki]

I first started using my ARB locker compressor.......SNIP

Sounds like the old small ARB compressor. I have the newer CKMA12 and on my recent trip I aired up 8 tires in a row without issue: 2 tires from 25 to 35, 4 tires from 18 to 35 and 2 tires from 25 to 32

[theksmith]

My reaction to the OP's question is "Why bother". All the cheap compressors are junk!! At least buy one made in Australia. Will they cost more? Yes. They will last and provide good service. But, they will still be slow. The Warn VTC is the way to go but have the drawbacks of expense and finding a space to mount. Still, the VTC is awesome and I love mine. But if you are still learning the "you get what you pay for" mantra, you will never listen to my advice.


And how do you determine value? The only thing I know is buy cheap and get junk or buy expensive and get quality-usually. How does one figure value if you are wasting your money buying stuff that does not work well or fails. If you you know the secret I would like to hear it. I don't enjoy spending large amounts of money either.

not everyone is willing or capable of buying "expensive" for every endeavor they undertake, nor should they just for they sake of spending the most possible. for many people overlanding may be just one of many hobbies, or it may be something that they are just starting to get into and therefore do not wish to devote a small fortune to accessories yet. the OP's question is realistic and one that i'm sure many people have had.

value is defined as "relative worth". could be relative to other similar priced products, or to other items you might spend your available money on, or any number of ways in which something has "worth" to you in comparison to other things.

- for me the sub-$100 MV-50's worked flawlessly for several years and then slowly began to die. it performed just as well for a couple of years as compressors costing 2 or 3 times as much. therefore, i found it to be of great "relative worth" as compared to the other compressors in my capable spending range at the time.

even within the $400+ range of compressors one can still determine "value" based on which qualities are the most important to them and which product delivers those qualities for the least cost.

"you get what you pay for" is a great adage. however, if you have no concept of value, then you will no doubt learn that "a fool and his money are soon parted".

[BigSwede]

HI swede,
And how do you determine value? The only thing I know is buy cheap and get junk or buy expensive and get quality-usually. How does one figure value if you are wasting your money buying stuff that does not work well or fails. If you you know the secret I would like to hear it. I don't enjoy spending large amounts of money either.

Sparky

There is no absolute answer, it depends on your circumstances. If you are exploring Mongolia or the Sahara, I would indeed want a rock solid reliable air source. Here in the US where I do my exploring, usually in groups, help is never far away.

FWIW as a general rule I usually tend to buy mid-price, I find best value there. Rarely is the cheapest worth buying, and at some point diminishing returns make the most expensive items a waste of resources. The MV-50 is by no means the cheapest compressor out there, it is the cheapest I feel is worth carrying for serious use. I have had two MV-50s for 5 years or so now, maybe I'm just lucky but both are still working. And I have 35" tires, takes some doing to air those up.

[Redline]

snip...

- for me the sub-$100 MV-50's worked flawlessly for several years and then slowly began to die. it performed just as well for a couple of years as compressors costing 2 or 3 times as much. therefore, i found it to be of great "relative worth" as compared to the other compressors in my capable spending range at the time. snip...

Yes! :)