The very best I have ever owned. Excellent video instruction, Thanks! I am just a weekend mechanic with five vehicles to maintain and numerous machines-ATV, snow blower, would chipper etc. I spent 25 bucks three years ago and have no regrets. Took that long for the original batteries to go dead!
Greater view. I just bought one of these and really didn’t know how to use it. Now I got a real good idea on the basics of operation. I have a small air compressor that I hang in the garage. That I’ve had for years. So this will be a nice addition to it.
Just on the topic of checking tire pressures, check out the tool called valve pal. It's used to remove the cap from the valve stem on the inner tire for duals on heavy truck. So handy! Great review again can't get enough of your videos.
This was another fantastic review. Looking for a portable 12V digital tire inflator with automatic shut off to replace my one year old Colbalt one. The warrantee has expired and after leaving in in my truck over the memorial day weekend the 12v plug has stopped working. I can still get it to work by using the 110 plug but now it is no longer portable. Looking on-line and finding plenty of other brands and models for varying prices but no confidence inspiring reviews. This was cool but you have to connect to shop air.
I have the slightly older model Astro 3018 and I kind of think since this newer 1 has done away with the button cell battery and now uses a braided stainless steal hose maybe the model # should have changed to 3019, yeah I know but it was just a thought. I have the newer model 3018 on order because I got tired of pulling the old 1 apart just to change a short lived 3V button cell plus I would have to do a little more looking around the store to find button cell batteries but the newer 1 now being able to take 2 AAA batteries is a step above and beyond the older model and I always seem to have AAA's around the house. lol
Nice improvements over the older version. I would be careful when handling the stainless steel hose. I have found that after awhile of using them, they tend to get frayed from things hitting them or just a little bit of dragging it. Those little stainless steel strands hurt like hell when you accidently get one shoved in your finger tip. Just speaking from experience.
+Mike L. Thanks for the observation Mike! Frayed wires are definitely something to watch out for.....you are right. Hopefully these will hold up well long-term.
Great Review. Wished you included the guess-o-matic cost in your review. At plus $50 it sure seems too pricey. Especially with the on/off road tire use design and how varying operational temps effects tire pressure readings. A plus or minus 1 psig or so of rated pressure, isn't that big of a deal. There are tire pressure tools out there at half of this cost that will last a long time. Really impressed with AP joining in on the convo and speaking up and assisting us with his discussion clarity and how to ensure we get the right tool the first time, ensuring the correct purchase the first time around. Tip of the Hat and Wag of the Fingers to AP. One question for AP - when we call the number you provided, who are we going to speak with? A receptionist or you or a Sales Rep or CS Dept or ???
+Hawaiian F150 Thanks! I dont talk about price normally since the videos will be on here for years & tool prices seem to go up & down with the weather.
Any idea how accurate the measurement(s) is? I.e., when it read 35.0 lbs, is the tire pressure actually 35.0, or is the pressure lower/higher and by how much?
+Steve Rob Thanks Steve! I compared this one to the pressure readings on the older model & they were dead on the same.....also check it vs some other gauges I had & everything lined up.
Very good review, and I have one of these on order after having to send a Milton inflator back because the gauge was just too far off. Does this gauge swivel on either end?
Excellent Video - was going to buy a cheaper unit - but after watching your video you sold me - You sure you dont work for Astro ??? Will be using to air up and down my 16 JKU Rubicon and pop up camper as needed.
I have the last version of this inflator and I'm happy with it. The only thin I wish I could get is a 90 degree adapter that I can take on and off the end that connects to the valve stem. It's I'm possible for me to get the hose onto the valve stem on the back tire on my touring motorcycle. Anyone know of an adapter like what I'm talking about exists?
+chargerman426 I know your pain. I don't have anything currently (besides a ball tip that I wouldn't trust to seat) but I found something that looks perfect and will probably pick it up and test it out as well. www.amazon.com/Topeak-Pressure-Rite-Anti-Air-Loss-Connector/dp/B000FIAVKG
+chargerman426 One of these may work www.amazon.com/Milton-500-4-Dual-Head-Chuck/dp/B001O2ZTHM/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1446387382&sr=8-3&keywords=Dual+Chuck+Head+Design www.amazon.com/Dual-Tire-Chuck-Chrome-Compressor/dp/B00540EYK8/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1446387382&sr=8-7&keywords=Dual+Chuck+Head+Design
Try 90 degree valve stems for your bike. www.amazon.com/Show-Chrome-Accessories-5-802-Degree/dp/B00HYYNW5K/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1491844647&sr=8-2&keywords=90+degree+valve+stem
do you know of an easy way to test if a tire gauge is calibrated or accurate? I have a little gauge from an auto parts store and I often wonder how accurate it really is. I feel it's more accurate than the metal rod readout on my tire inflator but I bet it's not totally accurate.
+Kimo Kalihi Well....this is much more accurate that the $0.99 versions or even the gas station varieties (free air), since it is a digital readout & not a plunger style......keep in mind with those, you can measure the same tire 10 times & get 10 different readings, since unless you put it on the valve stem "just right" they never show the pressure correctly --- sometimes only coming halfway out. As far as testing these, I verified it against other pressure gauges & also in various settings (low pressure, medium, and high pressure.......atv tires, car tires, and portable air tanks). For the home user, I dont know how to do this easily.....but I have not found the Astro units to be incorrect at all.
Nice. I have the Matco Tools version of this (rebranded). It's the original style with the button battery. Been great so far. Have you done any reviews/testing of the IR power sockets? They claim to apply more torque to a fastener than conventional sockets. I can see the theory behind them, but would be great to see them in action on your Skidmore
+Lynx Star Automotive (Gabe V) Thanks! I dont see a problem with the older version, other than battery life & ease-of-changing the button cell.....thanks for the update with yours! I have an IR power socket here (19mm) & also the Lisle crank bolt socket.....the issue that I have run into, is that NO 19mm or 3/4" bolt/nut can be torqued down enough to accurately show the additional torque being applied (even 1/2" Grade 8 bolts with 3/4" heads will stretch above 120 ft-lbs). The Skidmore doesnt even have an option for nuts/bolts that small....I am brainstorming the best way to show it, but so far I have been unsuccessful in proving anything --- one way or the other. The advantage is going to be removing stuck/corroded fasteners & unfortunately I cannot "prove" how much torque is needed to overcome corrosion on a per-bolt basis.
I see what you mean. I have wondered myself just how it is that Ingersol Rand has done the testing, and gathered the data for these sockets? I know loosening torque, and tightening torque are not the same, but it would be interesting to see if you can squeeze a little bit more torque out of your impact by using the power socket vs a traditional socket on the skidmore.
+Andy A. The link should be the new version (in the description)....they did not update the part # & many sites are still using the old pictures......as the old units sell, they are being re-stocked with the new units.
+Real Tool Reviews- I saw it on Amazon but don't want to take a chance ordering it because of the picture of the old one. I understand old stock has to sell out. If you know of anyone who definitely has the new one I would appreciate it if you let me know. Thanks.
+Nick dominic I would assume yes....they (and the other truck brands) rebrand a lot of tools from various companies & in reality they are identical most of the time.
thats exactly what i was thinking because i go on the matco truck once a week looking around and the same gauge is $120 but i recently discovered tooltopia and saw it for $59, the truck might have warranty but i rather pay half price.
Nick dominic Its an Astro Pneumatic but badged as a Matco red and with the matco tool. I have the astro pneumatic I bought it from Cornwell for $110. My co worker has the matco edition but a bit older with the rubber hose. I suggest you get this one because the steel braided line and since it has a triple A battery instead of the button battery it's easier to get a hold of a triple A battery. are you sure the 65 dollar one is an astro pneumatic? I've seen a few that look like it but they are knock off brands. remember you get what you pay for
The inflator you linked to appears to be the old model? Do you have a place where we can get the new one? Thanks for fueling my need for more gadgets/tools. My wife hates you.
+Tristan Neville Tell your wife I am sorry! haha....The one that I linked to is the 3018....unfortunately they did not make a new SKU# for this upgraded design & basically have been replacing the old stock with these new models as they have been selling. I have had this one for 2 months now & since Astro finally announced them, I assume that most retailers are now shipping this style. Amazon is one of the highest volume seller of tools.....so I would guess that they will have the new style shipping prior to anyone else. (If you use the link to buy one.....get it from AMAZON as the seller, not 3rd party for $0.02 cheaper).
+Tristan Neville FYI.....if they ship you the old version, I would either return it & have them replace it ("item not as described".....free s/h)......or you could call Astro to arrange a replacement unit. I highly suspect when the new units are widely available, the price on these will be going up.
+powerram92 The picture has not updated yet.....I have notified Astro & they are working with Amazon to get that fixed. The item # is the same as the old style, but the units now being shipped are supposed to be the new style only. The link is correct (just be sure to choose AMAZON as the seller, not a 3rd party to save $0.02).
+powerram92 FYI.....if they ship you the old version, I would either return it & have them replace it ("item not as described".....free s/h)......or you could call Astro to arrange a replacement unit. I highly suspect when the new units are widely available, the price on these will be going up.
+powerram92 We would recommend you give us a call and we’ll make sure to point you towards a distributor who has the new version in stock. As is the case with any new model/version not everyone has updated inventory or is selling them yet, we imagine this applies to Amazon as well. (800) 221-9705
+MidwestMotoRider I would say it matters a lot more in the low pressure side of things (my other 4-wheeler for example specifies 3.6 psi) VS full sized car tires. It would be nice to know that you are pretty much the exact same the whole way around, instead of 0.9 psi off (up on one side & down on the other), which in theory will cause uneven tire wear.
Real Tool Reviews True, however the tire manufactures understand that normal people will run the tires at 4 or 5 PSI and they are designed with that in mind and the 3.6 is an ideal presure however the .4 you would be short does not matter for tire wear or function. Also tempature matters, so get it to 3.6 and it could be more or less depending on the temp of the tire and air temp. So while this is a handy tool and I plan to get one when I can, the point part of the display is largely irrelevant.
Garth Goldberg how is this harder to read than an analog? this tells you the exact number. analog you have a bunch of numbers and lines and a arrow you have to see where it is to know the pressure?!
The very best I have ever owned. Excellent video instruction, Thanks! I am just a weekend mechanic with five vehicles to maintain and numerous machines-ATV, snow blower, would chipper etc. I spent 25 bucks three years ago and have no regrets. Took that long for the original batteries to go dead!
The updated Astro looks and functions exactly the same as my Matco gauge.
LOL Astro made it for Matco
Looks so similar to the Blue Point as well!
Greater view. I just bought one of these and really didn’t know how to use it. Now I got a real good idea on the basics of operation. I have a small air compressor that I hang in the garage. That I’ve had for years. So this will be a nice addition to it.
Just purchased this Astro digital inflator, thanks for the easy demo on how to operate it... 👨🔧👍
Worth it, bought mine about 2 years ago and love it.
Very helpful vid. Came out to check tires for road trip and dang thing was dead. Quick Brave search and found this. Well done!!
Thank you! Gret explanation. I'm looking forward to using my Astro device.
thanks! just what i was looking for. placing my order on amazon now. thank you
Thanks for great informative short instructions!
This thing is pretty sweet. Nice improvements, especially the battery. Great review as always.
+DC Rickerson Thanks DC!
Sold!! I like the AAA batteries and the braided hose. Nice Proto screwdrivers!!!
+Fedwrench Haha nice :) I think the battery aspect was a good upgrade on this one! And good eye with the Proto's ;)
I like that they switched the battery type and the hose. Nice item.
+Russ Webster (rfwjr88) Thanks Russ!
Great review! Bought one for myself👍🏻
Just on the topic of checking tire pressures, check out the tool called valve pal. It's used to remove the cap from the valve stem on the inner tire for duals on heavy truck. So handy! Great review again can't get enough of your videos.
+Josh Swanson I will check it out...thanks!
This was another fantastic review. Looking for a portable 12V digital tire inflator with automatic shut off to replace my one year old Colbalt one. The warrantee has expired and after leaving in in my truck over the memorial day weekend the 12v plug has stopped working. I can still get it to work by using the 110 plug but now it is no longer portable. Looking on-line and finding plenty of other brands and models for varying prices but no confidence inspiring reviews. This was cool but you have to connect to shop air.
That seems like it would be very helpful for diagnosing a tpms issue. Plus sure beats paying Snap-on/Bluepoint prices.
+jstorer1980 I think just about anything beats that! ;) haha
you so good man; thank you for this video....!!!!!
@real tool reviews do you know if the current amazon model is the AAA battery braided hose model?
Thank you.
Thank you for this informative post, cheers ! MERRY CHRISTMAS 2021
Great review as usual, I can take the old design off your hands for you now that you have that pretty new one. : )
+Kevin Konkel Thanks Kevin! I am glad you liked it!
I just bought one from your link to Amazon.
I have the slightly older model Astro 3018 and I kind of think since this newer 1 has done away with the button cell battery and now uses a braided stainless steal hose maybe the model # should have changed to 3019, yeah I know but it was just a thought. I have the newer model 3018 on order because I got tired of pulling the old 1 apart just to change a short lived 3V button cell plus I would have to do a little more looking around the store to find button cell batteries but the newer 1 now being able to take 2 AAA batteries is a step above and beyond the older model and I always seem to have AAA's around the house. lol
going to start Chrysler program. whats the best pro guage to get?
Nice improvements over the older version. I would be careful when handling the stainless steel hose. I have found that after awhile of using them, they tend to get frayed from things hitting them or just a little bit of dragging it. Those little stainless steel strands hurt like hell when you accidently get one shoved in your finger tip. Just speaking from experience.
+Mike L. Thanks for the observation Mike! Frayed wires are definitely something to watch out for.....you are right. Hopefully these will hold up well long-term.
This would make a awesome gift for car type guys.
I have a similar one but from blue-point, its a slightly different one, 3 buttons. Won it for free from my Snap-On dealer in a raffle.
+LexLuger Nice! I saw the Blue Point one online & they definitely look very similar.
Another great one
+George S Thanks George!
Do y’all know how to fixed the glitching issue and occur while inflate the tire.
What is the size the button battery
Looks a lot like the matco one hmmm...is matco back at it again with the rebranding??
Great Review. Wished you included the guess-o-matic cost in your review. At plus $50 it sure seems too pricey. Especially with the on/off road tire use design and how varying operational temps effects tire pressure readings. A plus or minus 1 psig or so of rated pressure, isn't that big of a deal. There are tire pressure tools out there at half of this cost that will last a long time.
Really impressed with AP joining in on the convo and speaking up and assisting us with his discussion clarity and how to ensure we get the right tool the first time, ensuring the correct purchase the first time around.
Tip of the Hat and Wag of the Fingers to AP.
One question for AP - when we call the number you provided, who are we going to speak with? A receptionist or you or a Sales Rep or CS Dept or ???
+Hawaiian F150 Thanks! I dont talk about price normally since the videos will be on here for years & tool prices seem to go up & down with the weather.
Any idea how accurate the measurement(s) is? I.e., when it read 35.0 lbs, is the tire pressure actually 35.0, or is the pressure lower/higher and by how much?
+/- 1.2 PSI for 0-58 PSI, +/- 2 PSI for 59-174 PSI.
Looks impressive with such range and accuracy. What would you use to verify the stated accuracy from Astro ?
+Steve Rob Thanks Steve! I compared this one to the pressure readings on the older model & they were dead on the same.....also check it vs some other gauges I had & everything lined up.
Very good review, and I have one of these on order after having to send a Milton inflator back because the gauge was just too far off.
Does this gauge swivel on either end?
+snippits75 Thanks! And yes, I believe it does swivel where it comes out of the housing. I like these a lot.
Still can't use it on a dually..... Guess I'm buying the DT8 from Matco.
Love your videos! This time I think you forgot to test the accuracy of the gauge?
Knight Langelot ... may you share the accuracy of the Astro 3018? I believe it would help in deciding which air gauge I'd purchase. Thanks
Thanks
Excellent Video - was going to buy a cheaper unit - but after watching your video you sold me - You sure you dont work for Astro ???
Will be using to air up and down my 16 JKU Rubicon and pop up camper as needed.
thanks nro
Sweet I like that.
+BADD400 CB700 drums Awesome!
I have the last version of this inflator and I'm happy with it. The only thin I wish I could get is a 90 degree adapter that I can take on and off the end that connects to the valve stem. It's I'm possible for me to get the hose onto the valve stem on the back tire on my touring motorcycle. Anyone know of an adapter like what I'm talking about exists?
+chargerman426
I know your pain. I don't have anything currently (besides a ball tip that I wouldn't trust to seat) but I found something that looks perfect and will probably pick it up and test it out as well.
www.amazon.com/Topeak-Pressure-Rite-Anti-Air-Loss-Connector/dp/B000FIAVKG
+chargerman426 One of these may work
www.amazon.com/Milton-500-4-Dual-Head-Chuck/dp/B001O2ZTHM/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1446387382&sr=8-3&keywords=Dual+Chuck+Head+Design
www.amazon.com/Dual-Tire-Chuck-Chrome-Compressor/dp/B00540EYK8/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1446387382&sr=8-7&keywords=Dual+Chuck+Head+Design
Try 90 degree valve stems for your bike. www.amazon.com/Show-Chrome-Accessories-5-802-Degree/dp/B00HYYNW5K/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1491844647&sr=8-2&keywords=90+degree+valve+stem
do you know of an easy way to test if a tire gauge is calibrated or accurate? I have a little gauge from an auto parts store and I often wonder how accurate it really is. I feel it's more accurate than the metal rod readout on my tire inflator but I bet it's not totally accurate.
+Kimo Kalihi Well....this is much more accurate that the $0.99 versions or even the gas station varieties (free air), since it is a digital readout & not a plunger style......keep in mind with those, you can measure the same tire 10 times & get 10 different readings, since unless you put it on the valve stem "just right" they never show the pressure correctly --- sometimes only coming halfway out. As far as testing these, I verified it against other pressure gauges & also in various settings (low pressure, medium, and high pressure.......atv tires, car tires, and portable air tanks). For the home user, I dont know how to do this easily.....but I have not found the Astro units to be incorrect at all.
Nice. I have the Matco Tools version of this (rebranded). It's the original style with the button battery. Been great so far.
Have you done any reviews/testing of the IR power sockets? They claim to apply more torque to a fastener than conventional sockets. I can see the theory behind them, but would be great to see them in action on your Skidmore
+Lynx Star Automotive (Gabe V) Thanks! I dont see a problem with the older version, other than battery life & ease-of-changing the button cell.....thanks for the update with yours!
I have an IR power socket here (19mm) & also the Lisle crank bolt socket.....the issue that I have run into, is that NO 19mm or 3/4" bolt/nut can be torqued down enough to accurately show the additional torque being applied (even 1/2" Grade 8 bolts with 3/4" heads will stretch above 120 ft-lbs). The Skidmore doesnt even have an option for nuts/bolts that small....I am brainstorming the best way to show it, but so far I have been unsuccessful in proving anything --- one way or the other. The advantage is going to be removing stuck/corroded fasteners & unfortunately I cannot "prove" how much torque is needed to overcome corrosion on a per-bolt basis.
I see what you mean. I have wondered myself just how it is that Ingersol Rand has done the testing, and gathered the data for these sockets? I know loosening torque, and tightening torque are not the same, but it would be interesting to see if you can squeeze a little bit more torque out of your impact by using the power socket vs a traditional socket on the skidmore.
Haven't seen anything from you in a while. Any new videos in the works?
Yep!
I thought it was going to vent when it reaches the set pressure. :(
+GigaDonk That would be cool :)
There are wall mounted automated systems that will do that. Set the desired pressure, and it will inflate each to the pressure you set.
can it be calibrated or is it non adjustable?
+3m3m3m74 As far as I know, it is not user-adjustable.
Stainless braided hose looks nice but I would be afraid of rubbing off the finish on my wheels. I think I'll stick with my older model.
+Aaron Purtell I didnt think of that....good observation! I guess the chance would be there anytime you have metal contact onto a surface.....thanks!
Yea no problem, thank you for the review! I have gotten much use out of this tool and it sure is a great one.
finnnnne ill buy it lol
How has this product held up over the years
The batteries occasionally die, other than that I personally haven’t had any problems.
Do you have a link to buy the new version?
+Andy A. The link should be the new version (in the description)....they did not update the part # & many sites are still using the old pictures......as the old units sell, they are being re-stocked with the new units.
+Real Tool Reviews- I saw it on Amazon but don't want to take a chance ordering it because of the picture of the old one. I understand old stock has to sell out. If you know of anyone who definitely has the new one I would appreciate it if you let me know. Thanks.
+Andy A. Any updates on where to buy the new version? I can not find it anywhere.
อยากได้
this is the exact same as the matco ones dont you think?
+Nick dominic I would assume yes....they (and the other truck brands) rebrand a lot of tools from various companies & in reality they are identical most of the time.
thats exactly what i was thinking because i go on the matco truck once a week looking around and the same gauge is $120 but i recently discovered tooltopia and saw it for $59, the truck might have warranty but i rather pay half price.
Nick dominic Its an Astro Pneumatic but badged as a Matco red and with the matco tool. I have the astro pneumatic I bought it from Cornwell for $110.
My co worker has the matco edition but a bit older with the rubber hose. I suggest you get this one because the steel braided line and since it has a triple A battery instead of the button battery it's easier to get a hold of a triple A battery.
are you sure the 65 dollar one is an astro pneumatic?
I've seen a few that look like it but they are knock off brands. remember you get what you pay for
The inflator you linked to appears to be the old model? Do you have a place where we can get the new one? Thanks for fueling my need for more gadgets/tools. My wife hates you.
+Tristan Neville Tell your wife I am sorry! haha....The one that I linked to is the 3018....unfortunately they did not make a new SKU# for this upgraded design & basically have been replacing the old stock with these new models as they have been selling. I have had this one for 2 months now & since Astro finally announced them, I assume that most retailers are now shipping this style. Amazon is one of the highest volume seller of tools.....so I would guess that they will have the new style shipping prior to anyone else. (If you use the link to buy one.....get it from AMAZON as the seller, not 3rd party for $0.02 cheaper).
+Tristan Neville FYI.....if they ship you the old version, I would either return it &
have them replace it ("item not as described".....free s/h)......or you
could call Astro to arrange a replacement unit. I highly suspect when
the new units are widely available, the price on these will be going up.
+Tristan Neville Give us a call at (800) 221 9705 and we will refer you to a distributor who has the new version in stock.
Thanks!
the link is to the older one not the new one
+powerram92 The picture has not updated yet.....I have notified Astro & they are working with Amazon to get that fixed. The item # is the same as the old style, but the units now being shipped are supposed to be the new style only. The link is correct (just be sure to choose AMAZON as the seller, not a 3rd party to save $0.02).
ok thank you
+powerram92 FYI.....if they ship you the old version, I would either return it & have them replace it ("item not as described".....free s/h)......or you could call Astro to arrange a replacement unit. I highly suspect when the new units are widely available, the price on these will be going up.
+powerram92 We would recommend you give us a call and we’ll make sure to point you
towards a distributor who has the new version in stock. As is the case with any
new model/version not everyone has updated inventory or is selling them yet, we
imagine this applies to Amazon as well. (800) 221-9705
cool channel, when is the next tool giveaway
+Isaac Gonzalez Thanks Isaac! I normally do not over-do it with giveaways, but I plan to do a couple more before the end of the year.
+Real Tool Reviews make it the thread checker, jaja
Well not tire needs to be that precise with air pressure, still its a cool item.
+MidwestMotoRider I would say it matters a lot more in the low pressure side of things (my other 4-wheeler for example specifies 3.6 psi) VS full sized car tires. It would be nice to know that you are pretty much the exact same the whole way around, instead of 0.9 psi off (up on one side & down on the other), which in theory will cause uneven tire wear.
Real Tool Reviews True, however the tire manufactures understand that normal people will run the tires at 4 or 5 PSI and they are designed with that in mind and the 3.6 is an ideal presure however the .4 you would be short does not matter for tire wear or function. Also tempature matters, so get it to 3.6 and it could be more or less depending on the temp of the tire and air temp. So while this is a handy tool and I plan to get one when I can, the point part of the display is largely irrelevant.
Or u can buy the same one from matco in red for $140.
Same thing. I have the matco and is really the same as the astro pneumatic. I'll probably buy another one to keep at home from astro pneumatic.
On not awn
www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/accent
I like the analog one better. No batteries and easier to read.
Garth Goldberg how is this harder to read than an analog?
this tells you the exact number. analog you have a bunch of numbers and lines and a arrow you have to see where it is to know the pressure?!
Where do you get the air compressor?