I have spend HOURS searching which portable compressor to go with.

I planned on getting an on board air system with an ARB twin, but I can't justify the coin it's going to cost for the unit, plus a bracket (that I'd have to figure out how to make). So portable it is!

If I could, I'd buy the Puma 12v 1.5 gallon compressor. I just can't get one up here in Canada.

So I have decided to go with VIAIR (unless I hear otherwise).

Next thing is picking a model.


Main question - is an 'automatic' unit better than a standard unit? I'm still trying to wrap my head around this.

I know the Viair 450p-a has a 100% duty cycle but pumps out way less CFM's compared to the 440p with a 33% duty cycle. They are both on Amazon for the same price.

Or, for substantially less, I could go with a 400p.


Who here recommends what?

Curious to here thoughts on this as well. I was thinking of going with a viair 300p from amazon.ca.

I just mounted a 450 behind the rear panel. Its quite and I can hardly even hear it running over road noise.

After my research i ended up buying this. Smittybilt Part 2781 - 5.65 CFM Air Compressor-WS4

Wow. That definitely has me thinking. Seems to have pretty good bang for the buck. 5.65 cfm is huge!

Reviews seem to be pretty good on that unit. I'll have to look into it.

I've heard great things about the 300p as well. Looks like we're basically neighbours.

Yeah, it's a nice little machine.

Have you considered CO2. If your only need for air is tires after off roading or the occassional air tool (as in an impact wrench to change a flat) it is not a bad alternative. CO2 tanks can be filled at most welding supply stores for under $20. Even when I was wheeling a couple of times a month I could still get a couple of months out of a fill up.

You can also take advantage of the portability to move to another vehicle or even run a nail gun for carpentry work around the house.