See Part 1 of the review - ua-cam.com/video/sRzhsYT7FJw/v-deo.html See full review blog post - www.loveyourrv.com/viair-450p-rv-12vdc-air-compressor-review-and-rv-hookup-mod/
I have 2 Viair compressors. I have a 400P-RV for my RV and a 300P for my Jeep. I've had the 300P for almost 6 years and use it quite regularly and the 400P for 1.5 years with pretty regular use. Have only ever had 1 issue which was with the 300 which was one of the little reed valves inside broke so it would not pump any air. Happened about 2 years after i purchased it. I contacted Viair and they said, no problem, send it to us asap. They fixed it and sent it back to me within a week for no charge, other than the shipping I paid to send it to them. They were very helpful and eager to resolve the issue it was having which is why when I was looking for a setup for my old motorhome, I did not hesitate to buy another one of their products! Call me a fan boy, that's ok, I'm a fan of their products!
About tire pressure gauges: Pencil type gauges are not known for being very accurate. The digital ones are hit or miss. So are analog gauges. It reminds me of an old Chinese proverb: "A man with one watch always knows what time it is. A man with two watches is never sure."
Thanks for this review! So many of the reviews for this unit are tests that aren’t very relevant for the RV owner, like inflating your 37” off-road tires from 15 to 35 PSI. Your tests showed everything I cared about: trailer tires, topping up a light truck tire, inflating a pin box airbag... perfect! Thanks so much!
I have the cheapest Visit compressor amazon sold a few years back. I mainly bought it to fill the helper bags on the truck. I use it weekly. Super happy
FYI, in March, we just traded in our 2004 Ford F250 Diesel S.D. & 2005 Keystone Cougar #276 We now are enjoying a 2018 Keystone MONTANA #3120 with a 2017 Ford F350 diesel Super Duty. Safe Travels, Ray Dave & Jan from Elk River, MN
Viair is awesome. I have mine mounted on the truck with 2 gal. tank and air connecting by the license plate. I've had mine a little over 6 years, zero issues.
I got the 400P this past winter and used it to air up my bike tires and top off the truck and trailer tires. Works great and, while expensive, a good addition. Can now leave my 120V compressor at home which will save some space in the rv basement.
I had a cheap compressor that looked kinda similar. Worked fine until it got hot while filling a large tire on my class A RV, and let the magic smoke out! Thanks for including the info on the duty cycle. I had not seen specs previously that it could run at 100%. Gives me more confidence that a Viair could work for me. Great video as always.
I was having tire pressure issues out west this past winter (a slow leak and dessert to mountain variations). So I got the 400P and really like it for the peace of mind it provides. Also due to the fact that a TPMS didn't work on my class C. The big additional advantage of having a travel compressor (though I suppose for this purpose, just about any would do) is quick winterization. Since I travel and camp during the winter and Michigan has notoriously fickle seasons, it's nice to be able to blow the pipes and add tithe antifreeze if things get seriously cold. More peace of mind. Thanks Ray!
I agree that Viair makes a decent little compressor. I bought the 400P model because I don't need the 100% duty cycle. Yes they are relatively expensive but they are stout. I accidently ran over mine and the only damage was the base plate. I really like that its so quiet and fast to inflate my trailer's tires. I use the battery clamps on the truck's battery and don't have any problems. I would like to get some kind of terminals to mount on the trailer's battery box. I'm not a fan of the coiled plastic hoses so I bought a 50' hybrid air hose to use with it. I agree on your comment about the bag. One of the buckles on mine broke within the first year of use. Also, a few years ago I purchased Viair's 90052 digital gauges and it broke quickly, so I don't recommend their gauges. I use a Moroso analog gauge.
I bought one about six months ago. It really is a quality well thought out air compressor tool kit. I'll be adding a 150 psi five gallon tank for running air tools and a good volume air gun. I have a five gallon air compressor at home in my shop that I can air the tank up with before trips and just top it off with the Viair as needed. Going to see if I can rig a little platform and quick disconnect right on the tank. Slide it in place, connect the hose, open the ball valve and when it's done, close the ball valve to minimize air loss from the tank.
I have the same compressor. Great idea installing the exterior 12v port. I also purchased a filler tip that had a steep angle on it to access my inside dually on my rv. I am happy with it overall
I keep my ViAir in the saddle toolbox. One problem I’ve run into with the bag here in the Pacific NW is mold growing on the canvas bag. I like to keep it in the truck where it’s handy but the constant rain & humidity during the winter takes a toll 😉
Thanks for the review. I debated the 400P and the 450P as well, but ultimately went with the 450P. Viair does have a recommendation chart based on the size of your tire on their website. Since we are hoping to purchase a Class A DP soon, decided to go with for the 450P!
I ordered the same compressor as an upgrade to my 90P! Should get it in the next few days! It took me a second before I realized what hadn’t quite registered that I was seeing in your video... I’m from the island and grew up in CR and have spent a lot of time fishing the tyee pools right out front of the spit as a kid! I’m pretty sure I’ve seen you pulling your 5th wheel with your truck as well. Not many extra cab F-350 2wd blue trucks like yours around! Great video!
Love Your RV that’s pretty neat! My dad built quite a number of those little rowboats. Back in the 1920’s and in that time period the old fisherman would row their little hand liners up from Vancouver and fish all these areas. A lot of neat history in that area!
Yeah, it's cool to watch them out them rowing back and forth and sometimes seeing a big fish landed. Here is a video I took a few years back - ua-cam.com/video/_eOy5kzrBjo/v-deo.html
I have one from Harbor Freight that cost about sixty bucks and is also 150 max psi. It looks just like yours and comes with the bag and the hose and gauge. I love mine, not trying to put yours down but am very satisfied for the money. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks, here is the link - www.harborfreight.com/12volt-150-psi-compact-air-compressor-69285.html Looks very similar, little less CFM at 1.35 but like you say much cheaper at $62.99
Years ago I bought the $29 Harbor Freight model (about $25 when using the 20% discount coupon) and for the money you can't beat it. Plus you can plug it into a cigarette lighter outlet which is convenient. However this Viair looks like the best compressor on the market if you need moderate to heavy use. Good review Ray
Not knocking anything from Harbor Freight, have purchased many things from them, but if I am going to be out boondocking I would prefer to have something other that Harbor Freight. I have been waiting for a review from someone on this before I purchase and yes I know anything can fail, great review as always Ray.
The Harbor Freight pump 'equivalent' is vastly inferior. Before I bought my Viair unit I tried the Harbor Freight unit "to save money". On the third use it started pumping and then began bouncing all over (as if it threw a rod, or something). Quality products are more expensive -- but they work when needed.
I just purchased the same Viair you have and it should arrive probably Monday. I too, purchased the 450P-RV because of the 100% duty cycle. I paid $206 for it.
I have the same kit, I agree with the poor quality air filter, I also think the trigger handle with the pressure gauge could be more comfortable on your hands (somebody needs to explain "ergonomics" to the ViAir Company). I also agree with your comment about the light duty cord and Battery Clamps. For the Premium Price, these things could be easily remedied bu ViAir.
I've been using a Senco 6 gallon pancake 120vac compressor. Sits right next to my generator which is used to boon-dock and power the compressor. Works for far more than RV tires. I can use an impact driver to remove tire lug nuts for example. I also used it to winterize the RV since it is oil free. I swear I bought it for $99 on sale. I see it runs $150 retail. I also see that it's not highly rated on Amazon. But the Senco seems to do well for me. I see a very highly rated Porter Cable pancake compressor for $89 on Amazon. Guess the VIAIR is smaller and that might be worth the cost difference depending on use cases and storage space that you have.
Sounds like a decent economical compressor for people that have AC power handy. Thanks :) I guess the big advantage for the VIAIR is runs on 12 volts DC so good for portability. Cheers! Ray
Viair is the only portable compressor out their that can handle the trailer tire pressure. We bought one two years ago and have never looked back. Improper tire inflation is the number one problem for blow outs
@ Marsha Border, That's not quite right, there are other Twin cylinder models that will eat anything Viair sell, for the money Viair are a great unit, The only down side for generic compressors is getting hold off internal parts as I found out with a generic twin cylinder compressor that looks like the viair such a silly thing like the valve connector put my compressor out of action 6 weeks later the bit turned up but by that time I had bought 2 top of the line compressors.
Thanks for the advice. Thunderbird RV Park on Vancouver Island BC near a town called Campbell River. Beautiful spot to spend the summer :) goo.gl/maps/fVBFsAfr8Ay
HI Ray. Happy New Year. We just drove up from Yuma yesterday. Not sure where you are but agree the weather was cold and windy. One if these days I'm going to run into you and shae your hand. We finally moved up and got our first 5th wheel. Man, lots bigger then our previous rig. Regarding air compressors I watched your video and want to know if you are still satisfied with the VIAIR 450P? We need to buy something and I would appreciate your comments. Again Happy New Year.
We are over at Saddle Mountain near Buckeye, AZ been not bad during the day lately but a little chilly at night. :) I did an update video a little while ago - ua-cam.com/video/k9esJJZ6OW4/v-deo.html I'm still liking the VIAIR. Serves my purposes well and should last a long time. Cheers! Ray
Thanks Ray. I remembered watching it a while ago. you do good work! Don't know if it's too soon or not,, and I know none could ever replace Angie, but are you and Anne considering a puppy yet? Regards...Al
Good, we are on our second set and haven't had a problem with them. Good highway tire and seem to handle a little off-road abuse we've thrown at them getting to some boondocking spots.
The VIAIR goes for around $220 - amzn.to/2LGlQ7T The parts for the plug install are around $60-100 depending on where you buy them. Marinco Receptacle - amzn.to/2J4TjYK Minn Kota Socket and Plug - amzn.to/2J4TjYK Milwaukee Hole Saw Kit - amzn.to/2kDSVGi 8 GA Cable - amzn.to/2L9cMbA 30 Amp Inline Fuse Holder - amzn.to/2xwxxfm Marine Grade Silicone - amzn.to/2LLkObO
Good, it comes with a 45-degree angle fairly long filler chuck that can reach in between to fill the inner dually. I tested it on my dually and it reached the inner and outer valves no problem. ua-cam.com/video/sRzhsYT7FJw/v-deo.html
www.factoryauthorizedoutlet.com/c2002-porter-cable-150-psi-6-gal-oil-free-pancake-compressor?google=1&CAWELAID=829716407&CAGPSPN=pla&CAAGID=19732019651&CATCI=pla-123341607371&gclid=Cj0KCQjwmPPYBRCgARIsALOziAOtnUAvolqZNZQ2dU_eo3-8FbgsoI7IyTuzWMwZ7AGndefkNMXMTnYaAirfEALw_wcB Mine is 1&1/2 gallon
![[UA] NAVI vs MOUZ | BO5 | IEM Rio 2024](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/CMBYk0cbGoA/mqdefault.jpg)
See Part 1 of the review - ua-cam.com/video/sRzhsYT7FJw/v-deo.html See full review blog post - www.loveyourrv.com/viair-450p-rv-12vdc-air-compressor-review-and-rv-hookup-mod/
I have 2 Viair compressors. I have a 400P-RV for my RV and a 300P for my Jeep. I've had the 300P for almost 6 years and use it quite regularly and the 400P for 1.5 years with pretty regular use. Have only ever had 1 issue which was with the 300 which was one of the little reed valves inside broke so it would not pump any air. Happened about 2 years after i purchased it. I contacted Viair and they said, no problem, send it to us asap. They fixed it and sent it back to me within a week for no charge, other than the shipping I paid to send it to them. They were very helpful and eager to resolve the issue it was having which is why when I was looking for a setup for my old motorhome, I did not hesitate to buy another one of their products! Call me a fan boy, that's ok, I'm a fan of their products!
About tire pressure gauges: Pencil type gauges are not known for being very accurate. The digital ones are hit or miss. So are analog gauges. It reminds me of an old Chinese proverb: "A man with one watch always knows what time it is. A man with two watches is never sure."
Thanks for this review! So many of the reviews for this unit are tests that aren’t very relevant for the RV owner, like inflating your 37” off-road tires from 15 to 35 PSI. Your tests showed everything I cared about: trailer tires, topping up a light truck tire, inflating a pin box airbag... perfect! Thanks so much!
Glad it was helpful!
I have the cheapest Visit compressor amazon sold a few years back. I mainly bought it to fill the helper bags on the truck. I use it weekly. Super happy
Thanks for your review, well done! We have owned our VIAIR 400P-RV since 2015 and love it; you get what you pay for. I must say, "RIP Old Blue".
FYI, in March, we just traded in our 2004 Ford F250 Diesel S.D. & 2005 Keystone Cougar #276
We now are enjoying a 2018 Keystone MONTANA #3120 with a 2017 Ford F350 diesel Super Duty.
Safe Travels, Ray
Dave & Jan from Elk River, MN
Viair is awesome. I have mine mounted on the truck with 2 gal. tank and air connecting by the license plate. I've had mine a little over 6 years, zero issues.
I got the 400P this past winter and used it to air up my bike tires and top off the truck and trailer tires. Works great and, while expensive, a good addition. Can now leave my 120V compressor at home which will save some space in the rv basement.
Good little pump. I love the power port mod for it.
I had a cheap compressor that looked kinda similar. Worked fine until it got hot while filling a large tire on my class A RV, and let the magic smoke out! Thanks for including the info on the duty cycle. I had not seen specs previously that it could run at 100%. Gives me more confidence that a Viair could work for me. Great video as always.
Thanks. :)
I was having tire pressure issues out west this past winter (a slow leak and dessert to mountain variations). So I got the 400P and really like it for the peace of mind it provides. Also due to the fact that a TPMS didn't work on my class C. The big additional advantage of having a travel compressor (though I suppose for this purpose, just about any would do) is quick winterization. Since I travel and camp during the winter and Michigan has notoriously fickle seasons, it's nice to be able to blow the pipes and add tithe antifreeze if things get seriously cold. More peace of mind. Thanks Ray!
Cool, thanks for the feedback. Cheers! Ray
I agree that Viair makes a decent little compressor. I bought the 400P model because I don't need the 100% duty cycle. Yes they are relatively expensive but they are stout. I accidently ran over mine and the only damage was the base plate.
I really like that its so quiet and fast to inflate my trailer's tires. I use the battery clamps on the truck's battery and don't have any problems. I would like to get some kind of terminals to mount on the trailer's battery box.
I'm not a fan of the coiled plastic hoses so I bought a 50' hybrid air hose to use with it.
I agree on your comment about the bag. One of the buckles on mine broke within the first year of use.
Also, a few years ago I purchased Viair's 90052 digital gauges and it broke quickly, so I don't recommend their gauges. I use a Moroso analog gauge.
I bought one about six months ago. It really is a quality well thought out air compressor tool kit. I'll be adding a 150 psi five gallon tank for running air tools and a good volume air gun. I have a five gallon air compressor at home in my shop that I can air the tank up with before trips and just top it off with the Viair as needed. Going to see if I can rig a little platform and quick disconnect right on the tank. Slide it in place, connect the hose, open the ball valve and when it's done, close the ball valve to minimize air loss from the tank.
Cool!
Great video we have used this compressor for our air bags and train horn. so far I have been happy with it. It has been installed for about 2 years
Cool, thanks for the feedback. :)
I’ve got the same Viair compressor, works wonderful. Love your plug mod on the RV for it...great video as always, thx
Very nice review. I have the 300P. Love it. Meets my needs and does what I need it to do. Thanks!
I have the same compressor. Great idea installing the exterior 12v port. I also purchased a filler tip that had a steep angle on it to access my inside dually on my rv. I am happy with it overall
I keep my ViAir in the saddle toolbox. One problem I’ve run into with the bag here in the Pacific NW is mold growing on the canvas bag. I like to keep it in the truck where it’s handy but the constant rain & humidity during the winter takes a toll 😉
Thanks for the review. I debated the 400P and the 450P as well, but ultimately went with the 450P. Viair does have a recommendation chart based on the size of your tire on their website. Since we are hoping to purchase a Class A DP soon, decided to go with for the 450P!
I ordered the same compressor as an upgrade to my 90P! Should get it in the next few days! It took me a second before I realized what hadn’t quite registered that I was seeing in your video... I’m from the island and grew up in CR and have spent a lot of time fishing the tyee pools right out front of the spit as a kid! I’m pretty sure I’ve seen you pulling your 5th wheel with your truck as well. Not many extra cab F-350 2wd blue trucks like yours around! Great video!
Yup, that's where we are. See the little Tyee club rowboats every summer out trying to hook the big one. :)
Love Your RV that’s pretty neat! My dad built quite a number of those little rowboats. Back in the 1920’s and in that time period the old fisherman would row their little hand liners up from Vancouver and fish all these areas. A lot of neat history in that area!
Yeah, it's cool to watch them out them rowing back and forth and sometimes seeing a big fish landed. Here is a video I took a few years back - ua-cam.com/video/_eOy5kzrBjo/v-deo.html
I have one from Harbor Freight that cost about sixty bucks and is also 150 max psi. It looks just like yours and comes with the bag and the hose and gauge. I love mine, not trying to put yours down but am very satisfied for the money. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for the feedback Jerry, can you provide a model number for folks? Cheers, Ray
Model or store number is 69285
Thanks, here is the link - www.harborfreight.com/12volt-150-psi-compact-air-compressor-69285.html
Looks very similar, little less CFM at 1.35 but like you say much cheaper at $62.99
Years ago I bought the $29 Harbor Freight model (about $25 when using the 20% discount coupon) and for the money you can't beat it. Plus you can plug it into a cigarette lighter outlet which is convenient.
However this Viair looks like the best compressor on the market if you need moderate to heavy use. Good review Ray
Not knocking anything from Harbor Freight, have purchased many things from them, but if I am going to be out boondocking I would prefer to have something other that Harbor Freight. I have been waiting for a review from someone on this before I purchase and yes I know anything can fail, great review as always Ray.
The Harbor Freight pump 'equivalent' is vastly inferior. Before I bought my Viair unit I tried the Harbor Freight unit "to save money". On the third use it started pumping and then began bouncing all over (as if it threw a rod, or something). Quality products are more expensive -- but they work when needed.
I just purchased the same Viair you have and it should arrive probably Monday. I too, purchased the 450P-RV because of the 100% duty cycle. I paid $206 for it.
Been enjoying the generator and this this video also tonight Always great info. Thank you.
I have the same kit, I agree with the poor quality air filter, I also think the trigger handle with the pressure gauge could be more comfortable on your hands (somebody needs to explain "ergonomics" to the ViAir Company). I also agree with your comment about the light duty cord and Battery Clamps. For the Premium Price, these things could be easily remedied bu ViAir.
Thanks, Ray. I like you reviews.
Glad to hear it, thanks for watching. Cheers! Ray
I've been using a Senco 6 gallon pancake 120vac compressor. Sits right next to my generator which is used to boon-dock and power the compressor. Works for far more than RV tires. I can use an impact driver to remove tire lug nuts for example. I also used it to winterize the RV since it is oil free. I swear I bought it for $99 on sale. I see it runs $150 retail. I also see that it's not highly rated on Amazon. But the Senco seems to do well for me. I see a very highly rated Porter Cable pancake compressor for $89 on Amazon. Guess the VIAIR is smaller and that might be worth the cost difference depending on use cases and storage space that you have.
Sounds like a decent economical compressor for people that have AC power handy. Thanks :)
I guess the big advantage for the VIAIR is runs on 12 volts DC so good for portability.
Cheers! Ray
Looks like a good air compressor. But my coach has air brakes, wipers etc, so it has its own air supply. And it was made in 1968!
Nice! :)
Viair is the only portable compressor out their that can handle the trailer tire pressure. We bought one two years ago and have never looked back. Improper tire inflation is the number one problem for blow outs
@ Marsha Border, That's not quite right, there are other Twin cylinder models that will eat anything Viair sell, for the money Viair are a great unit, The only down side for generic compressors is getting hold off internal parts as I found out with a generic twin cylinder compressor that looks like the viair such a silly thing like the valve connector put my compressor out of action 6 weeks later the bit turned up but by that time I had bought 2 top of the line compressors.
I see this video is about 4 years old. As of today, are you still happy with it? looking for a new compressor.
Yes, everything is still working well. Cheers, Ray
If doing more than a couple tires be very careful connecters and motor will get hot enough to instantly remove skin! Where you at in this video?
Thanks for the advice. Thunderbird RV Park on Vancouver Island BC near a town called Campbell River. Beautiful spot to spend the summer :) goo.gl/maps/fVBFsAfr8Ay
Looks wonderful enjoy!
HI Ray. Happy New Year.
We just drove up from Yuma yesterday. Not sure where you are but agree the weather was cold and windy. One if these days I'm going to run into you and shae your hand.
We finally moved up and got our first 5th wheel. Man, lots bigger then our previous rig. Regarding air compressors I watched your video and want to know if you are still satisfied with the VIAIR 450P? We need to buy something and I would appreciate your comments.
Again Happy New Year.
We are over at Saddle Mountain near Buckeye, AZ been not bad during the day lately but a little chilly at night. :)
I did an update video a little while ago - ua-cam.com/video/k9esJJZ6OW4/v-deo.html I'm still liking the VIAIR. Serves my purposes well and should last a long time.
Cheers! Ray
I remember your initial review. Can you direct me to where you discussed addition of Marine connector for running compressor?
More specific...where you did install.
Here is the post and video - www.loveyourrv.com/viair-450p-rv-12vdc-air-compressor-review-and-rv-hookup-mod/
Thanks Ray. I remembered watching it a while ago. you do good work!
Don't know if it's too soon or not,, and I know none could ever replace Angie, but are you and Anne considering a puppy yet?
Regards...Al
Perfect, thanks.
Ray another great video, how do you like those Toyo tires on Big Blue.
Good, we are on our second set and haven't had a problem with them. Good highway tire and seem to handle a little off-road abuse we've thrown at them getting to some boondocking spots.
Curious how much this system cost to install. I'm considering putting one in myself.
The VIAIR goes for around $220 - amzn.to/2LGlQ7T The parts for the plug install are around $60-100 depending on where you buy them.
Marinco Receptacle - amzn.to/2J4TjYK
Minn Kota Socket and Plug - amzn.to/2J4TjYK
Milwaukee Hole Saw Kit - amzn.to/2kDSVGi
8 GA Cable - amzn.to/2L9cMbA
30 Amp Inline Fuse Holder - amzn.to/2xwxxfm
Marine Grade Silicone - amzn.to/2LLkObO
Nice job god bless
the slime belongs in the trash nice vid i have the 300p nice
How does it do on the inner tires on duallies?
Good, it comes with a 45-degree angle fairly long filler chuck that can reach in between to fill the inner dually. I tested it on my dually and it reached the inner and outer valves no problem.
ua-cam.com/video/sRzhsYT7FJw/v-deo.html
I will stick with my pancake type, faster and only $100.00
Sorry, I don't know what you mean. Pancake?
www.factoryauthorizedoutlet.com/c2002-porter-cable-150-psi-6-gal-oil-free-pancake-compressor?google=1&CAWELAID=829716407&CAGPSPN=pla&CAAGID=19732019651&CATCI=pla-123341607371&gclid=Cj0KCQjwmPPYBRCgARIsALOziAOtnUAvolqZNZQ2dU_eo3-8FbgsoI7IyTuzWMwZ7AGndefkNMXMTnYaAirfEALw_wcB
Mine is 1&1/2 gallon
OK, thanks, so its a 120 VAC @ 8 amp compressor. So yeah it should perform better. :)