Last updated on January 11th, 2022 at 10:57 am
Every trucker knows the frustration behind a flat truck tire. And the last thing you want to find your truck with a flat tire in a remote area with no garage to pump the air. This is why it’s important to carry a portable air compressor to pump your truck tires on the spot.
Portable air compressors are compact and can be carried along with you in every route job you pick. Gone are the days when you have to look for a garage nearby you to get going again. However, if you got yourself a punctured tire then an air compressor gives you a temporary fix.
In 1799, the first-ever motorized air compressor was invented by George Medhurst. The means of transportation is the key to development and putting an effort to solve any issue which can stop that development is always a wise choice.
Choosing the best air compressor for your truck tires can be tricky. This is why we have curated and reviewed some of the most popular tire inflator compressors for you. Read them and pick whichever suits your requirements.
Contents
Best Portable Air Compressor for Inflating Truck Tires
| Inflators | Max PSI | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| VIAIR 45053 | 150 | 18 lbs | Check Price |
| PORTER-CABLE CMB15 | 150 | 20 lbs | Check Price |
| VIAIR 300P | 150 | 8.6 lbs | Check Price |
| Helteko Auto Inflator | 150 | 2.58 lbs | Check Price |
| PORTER-CABLE PCFP02003 | 135 | 26 lbs | Check Price |
| Viair 00088 88P | 120 | 4.45 lbs | Check Price |
| Smittybilt 2781 | 150 | 2.27 lbs | Check Price |
| SuperFlow MV-90 | 150 | 19.6 lbs | Check Price |
| Kensun AC/DC Inflator | 120 | 3.38 lbs | Check Price |
| EPAuto 12V Air Compressor | 120 | 1 lbs | Check Price |
1. VIAIR 45053 Silver Automatic Portable Air Compressor Kit
The VIAIR 45053 is one of the best 12-volt automatic air compressors for inflating your truck tire. It can deliver 150 PSI max working pressure which makes it quite a powerful go-to the compressor for all the travelers and truckers.
Thanks to its alligator clamps support it can be powered directly to the RV, car, or any heavy vehicle 12v battery. At a balanced 0 PSI it delivers 1.80CFM Free Flow of air which inflates big tires very quickly.
The VIAIR’s Automatic tire inflators make tire filling an easy job even for first-time users. Its automatic switch only starts the compressor when you engage the trigger on the inflation gun.
Such automation saves time and battery power if you are power directing it from your vehicle’s 12-volt battery. Though it is widely popular among campers, and because of its powerful 150 PSI pressure engagement, it can fil air in no time.
It comes with free accessories such as a tire inflation gun and gauge, build-in pressure switch, air hose, and a carrying case.
The most important feature of this unit is the continuous run cycle. You might have used old air compressors which require cool time after certain intervals. However, with this portable ait compressor, you can use it as long as it takes to pump the air.
This entire continuous run cycle is only possible because of its automated switch ON/OFF features which protect the motor from wearing and tearing caused due to heavy or long run uses.
Specs:
- PSI MAX: 150
- CFM: 1.80 CFM Free Flow at 0 PSI
- Voltage: 12 Volt
- Weight: 18 pounds
- Dimension: 10.9 x 5.8 x 7.5 inches
Why it’s Worth Buying:
- Suitable for Tires up to 33-35 inches
- Automatic shut off feature
- Built-in pressure switch
- 8 ft. power cord
- Primary & Extension Air Hoses (60ft total)
- Heavy Duty Dual Battery Clamps with Inline Fuse
- Vibration-Resistant Diamond-Plate Sand Tray
- Gas Station-Style Tire Inflation Gun with 160 PSI Gauge
- It comes with 3 pc. Inflation Tips Kit
Bottom Line: The 150 PSI max pressure and auto shut off is the reason why we think VIAIR 45053 is an excellent portable air compressor for your truck tires. It can pump it up very quickly and you will be back on the road in no time. If you are going on an off-road route the VIAIR 45053 will come very handy while managing a flat wheel scenario.
2. PORTER-CABLE CMB15 (1.5 Gallon) Oil-Free Fully Shrouded / Hand Carry Compressor Kit with 25′ Hose
If you are looking for something that you can carry in your hand without compromising the efficiency then CMB15 is the best pick for you.
Porter-Cable CMB15 is the most affordable portable air compressor which is not only compact but also packed with a powerful Low Amp 120V motor. It readily adapts with extension cable and is equipped with one of the most cold-weather friendly motors.
If you operate this compressor at 90 PSI to fill the air in your truck tires, then it delivers 2.0 SCFM that allows quick recovery time. By adding a durable oil-free pump, Porter-Cable has made sure about its long life. This no-maintenance oil-free pump design will be by your side along with your entire journey.
This portable air compressor is equipped with a 1.5 gal tank in the shroud which makes it easy to carry. It also offers a built-in water drain valve and rubber feet for quiet operation.
Specs:
- MAX PSI: 150
- SCFM: 2.0 SCFM at 90 PSI
- Amperage Capacity: 10 amp
- Weight: 20 pounds
- Dimension: 15.5 x 13.2 x 20.5 inches
Why it’s Worth Buying:
- Oil-free pump for long life
- No maintenance
- 25 ft coil air hose
- High performance (Super airflow)
- Low amp motor
- 8 pc accessory kit facilitates a number of inflation tasks
- Lightweight – Can be carried in hand
- Starts easily in cold weather
Bottom Line: CMB15 is the best Porter Cable air compressor for your truck tires. It is compact with 150 PSI Max to help you pump your wheels in need. It will also help you use pneumatic tools to repair your truck parts.
3. VIAIR 300P Portable Compressor
The Viair 300p is another excellent 12-volt air compressor that can be used to pump your flat truck tires. It has 150 MAX PSI which will help you get moving very quickly. However, while filling up the air make sure the engine is running during use.
With a Max. Amp draw of 28 Amps, 2.3CFM Free Flow @ 0 PSI and a 33% duty cycle rate, this portable air compressor can inflate any tubular thing very fast.
Thanks to its tuned motor you can continuously use this unit for 40 minutes at 72°F & 30 PSI. Though this is an optimal condition which will vary according to the type of truck you are driving.
The Viair 300P also features an Auto. reset thermal protection which protects the compressor and its motor from overheating. Such functions control the temperature or motor and also the air for optimal output.
You can simply provide power by connecting it to a 12-volt battery power source (typically from your vehicle) with the help of included alligator clamps.
The best part about this portable air compressor is its open-ended tire inflation hose with 100 PSI air pressure gauge. Popularly used with built-in functions such as air up, air up intermittently, air down, air down intermittently, or simply do a tire pressure check.
Specs:
- Max PSI: 150
- CFM: 2.3CFM Free Flow @ 0 PSI
- Motor voltage: 12 Volt
- Weight: 8.60 pounds
- Dimensions: 9.80″L x 4.90″W x 7.50″H
Why it’s worth buying:
- Powerful Portable Compression Rated for up to 33″ Tires
- High free flow rate
- 40-Amp inline fuse
- Offers a 3 piece inflation tips kit
- Lightweight and portable
- 25 ft, 5-in-1 inflator/deflator open-ended air hose with 120 PSI gauge
- One set of dual heavy-duty direct battery clamps
- Heavy-duty sand tray with vibration isolators
- Free deluxe zippered carry bag with storage compartments
Bottom Line: The VIAIR 300P is powerful to help you inflate up to 33-inch tires at a fast rate. Even at its max pressure of 150 PSI, it can continuously work for 15 minutes, which is quite some time to adjust air pressure in all of your wheels.
4. Helteko Auto Tire Pump with Emergency Led Lighting
This Helteko portable air compressor is an excellent digital tire inflator. Thanks to its 3.5 m long cable you can reach to all the wheels of your vehicle.
It is “Automatic” which means when the inflator reaches the desired tire pressure, it automatically turns off.
Built from high-quality ABS plastic and stainless steel materials this portable air compressor allows you to use the inflation features for a very long time.
If you are more tech Savvy then you are going to love its LCD digital display. It has a large high-precision bright display that helps you calculate the required values such as PSI, KPA, BAR, and KG/CM².
This tire inflator pump is equipped with a pressure gauge that enables drivers to keep an eye on any emergency situation or low tire pressure.
Specs:
- Max PSI: 150
- Power Source: 12 Volt
- Flow rate: 35L / min
- Weight: 2.58 pounds
- Dimensions: 9.8 x 6.2 x 4.5 inches
Why it’s worth buying:
- Simple Auto Shutt OFF technology
- Lightweight electric tire pump
- Emergency LED light for better safety
- Fast inflating speed – 35L/min of airflow
- Strong and long 11.5 ft cable
- Easy 12V connect
- Versatile: 3 Additional Nozzles
- Easy to store and carry
- Very reliable
Bottom Line: Helteko Portable Air Compressor Pump should be your choice if you are looking for something reliable at a low cost. Thousands of positive buyers review made it one of the most popular compact air compressors that can help you pump your truck tire quickly.
5. PORTER-CABLE PCFP02003 3.5-Gallon 135 PSI Pancake Compressor
The PCFP02003 is one of the best pancake-style portable air compressors that you can use to pump your truck tires. With a max 135 PSI, you will get a super-fast fill rate that will take you back on the road in no time.
The compact pancake-style is packed at only 26 lbs. which makes it highly portable. Thanks to its mini size, if you store it under the passenger seat in your cockpit.
This Porter-Cable unit is a 3.5-gallon pancake compressor that delivers 2.0 SCFM @ 90 PSI pump. It features an oil-free and durable pump unit for long life and zero maintenance.
I personally like that it is equipped with a low AMP 120V motor which is maintenance-free and easily starts in cold weather.
Factory-installed quick couplers let you get access to regulated air in no time with a free hose. Multi-working machines are always good, and this portable air compressor does that. Apart from all general inflation, you can also use it for brand nailers, small framing or roofing job, and operates smaller SCFM air tools.
Specs:
- Max PSI: 135
- SCFM: 2.0 SCFM delivered @ 90 PSI pump
- Amperage Capacity: 10 A
- Weight: 26 pounds
- Dimensions: 18.1 x 17.2 x 18.5 inches
Why it’s worth buying:
- Compact pancake-style air compressor
- Suitable for all types of inflation work
- Superfast air filling
- Quiet operation
- Zero maintenance
- 3.5-gallon tank
- Easy cold weather start
- Durable oil-free pump for long life
- Installed quick coupler for quick access to regulated air
Bottom Line: If you wanted to buy those big 60 gallons plus air compressors for your garage but money and space were holding you then don’t wait. Though it has a 3.5-gallon tank, it is one of the most versatile air compressors available in the market.
6. Viair 00088 88P Portable Air Compressor
This VIAIR 00088 unit is good for small ATVs, trucks, SUVs, and sedans with up to 33″ Tires. It has a max PSI of 120, which enables it for a rapid inflation rate even for an 18-wheeler truck. More precisely it performs bets for any vehicle that has 33″ size wheels.
In case if you are stuck at a remote location with no garage around, you can quickly connect it with the vehicle battery via alligator clamps.
To make things more sweet for you, Viair 88P comes with an LED power indicator, 16 ft air hose, 10 ft power cord and a 3-piece inflating tip kit.
Specs:
- Max PSI: 120
- SCFM: 1.47CFM Free Flow @ 0 PSI.Max.
- Amperage Draw: 20 Amps
- Weight: 4.45 pounds
- Dimension: 6.8 x 6.2 x 10.8 inches
Why it’s worth buying:
- Superfast air-up for instant go
- Very popular among small ATVs, trucks, SUVs, and sedans owners
- Easily connects with the help of alligator clamps
- Help keep your tires lasting longer
- Solid Brass Twist-on Tire Chuck
- Easy to store and very much reliable
Bottom Line: Viair 88P is an all-weather portable air compressor that will be by your side even during those rainy days. It is cold weatherproof and has a 12 VOLT easy start motor which can be powered directly by your vehicle’s battery. Its super portability and constant performance have made are one of the most popular air compressors for truckers.
7. Smittybilt 2781 5.65 CFM Universal Air Compressor
Power should be an important factor when choosing an air compressor. The Smittybilt 2781 comes with an amazing 5.65 CFM which can quickly pump up your truck tires.
The entire unit is tuned for a maximum continuous cycle time of 40 minutes at 40 psi when used under regular temperature.
The quick-release 24-foot coil hose can fill 72 liters of air per minute which is another excellent reason why this is the best portable air compressor for your truck tires.
We truckers know that having a single pressure for all types of terrane is not possible. So in case if you are trucking across the country driving on different types of terrane, this unit comes with easy air-up or air-down features to accommodate the pressure according to your needs.
Thanks to its 1/3 horsepower oil-less direct drive motor and a 30 amp inline fuse you are never going to have to drive on a full-blown wheel.
Specs:
- Max PSI: 150
- Maximum airflow: 72 liters per minute
- Motor: 12 Volt
- Weight: 2.27 pound
- Dimension: 13 x 9 x 10 inches
Why it’s worth buying:
- Auto-thermal cutoff switch — protects the motor against damage.
- Comes with easy to clean air filter
- Lightweight and easy to carry around
- Long 40 minutes of duty cycle
- Free storage bag with the purchase
- Anti-vibration rubber feet for quiet operation
- 140 deg F Maximum operating temperature
- Can be permanently mounted and hard-wired
- Integrated 150 PSI – Easy to read pressure gauge
Bottom Line: Smittybilt 2781 is a daily use portable air compressor that you use to pump your tires. No matter if you drive a pickup truck or an 18-wheeler, this Smittybilt 2781 will come handy for all.
8. SuperFlow MV-90 12 Volt Portable Heavy Duty Air Pump For Off Road Vehicles and Trucks
The MV-90 is a high-performance portable air compressor for truck tires. It can be packed in the free carry bag and get stored anywhere in your cabin or inside the trunk.
SuperFlow MV-90 is one top-notch multi-use compressor that can be used to fill up to 44″ (inches) of tires. It also comes with a sports adapter which can be used to pump soccer or football.
If you read its manual (only once) you can easily start it and with the help of a 24ft air hose, simply use the Flip-Switch and inflate a 37″ tire in less than 3 minutes.
Specs:
- Max PSI: 150
- Motor: 12 Volt
- Weight: 19.6 pound
- Dimension: 15.4 x 12 x 11.3 inches
Why it’s Worth Buying:
- Easy air up and air down anytime you need
- Air up a 44-inch tire from 25 to 35 PSI in about three minutes
- Inline pressure gauge
- Rugged base plate for noise-free operation
- Multi-Use: Inflates tires on Trucks, cars, bikes, motorcycles, RVs, SUVs, and ATVs
Bottom Line: SuperFlow MV-90 can pump up your truck tires quickly. It is a perfect tool for the outdoor enthusiast, off-roader, camper, trucker, or just anyone that has tires.
9. Kensun AC/DC Power Supply – Portable Air Compressor Pump with Adaptors for Cars and Trucks
If you are looking for both AC/DC power supply portable air compressor pump then you found one. This Kensun portable inflator is best in its class.
This portable inflator is designed with two power cords this air compressor can be connected to the home outlet (110 V) or simply connect it with your cigarette plug (12V).
Dual power source makes it even more versatile and user-friendly. This high-performance unit is very easy to use and intended for emergy roadside inflation of truck tires or sports unit.
Specs:
- Max PSI: 120
- Run Time: 30 minutes at 35psi.
- Weight: 3.38 pounds
- Dimension: 11.8 x 4.3 x 6.7 inches
Why it’s Worth Buying:
- Superfast tire inflator
- Precision analog pressure gauge
- Stores easily in the trunk
- Multiple sets of adapter nozzles
- Dual power connectivity
- Affordable price
Bottom Line: This portable air compressor is a great help when it comes to tackling a roadside flat-tire. Because of its compact design, this unit has become very popular among all types of vehicle owners.
10. EPAuto 12V DC Digital Tire Inflator – Is it Good For Big Tires?
In the trucking industry, I have seen people recommending EPAuto 12VDC, however, I personally don’t find it compatible.
And not just me, the brand itself, claims that this EPAuto unit if good to Inflate tires on cars, bikes, sedan, and midsize SUV. (Engine size under 3.5 liter).
They specifically do not recommend it for “truck tires, for instance: light truck tires (LT), heavy-duty truck tires or any truck tires.”
Though it has over 6500+ buyer’s reviews, I don’t think that it is popular among the trucking community.
What To Look For in a Portable Air Compressor Before Buying it?
Not every portable air compressors are the same, and similarly not every truck tires are the same. Having the option to choose among different types of compressors can be tricky. But it should not if you know your job and vehicle.
Pounds Per Square Inch or PSI
PSI is a measuring unit in which the amount of air pressure is measured. In air compressors, PSI is the power of pressure that it can release or counter. For most of the truck tire, a 100-150 PSI air compressor is enough for a quick pump up. However, to be sure, check what is the PSI of your Truck tire at which it inflates and buy the air compressor which can release equal or more pressure than that.
How Stable your Compressor is? or Stability Technology
When the compressor starts to release the pressure, it vibrates and might move which can vary the output PSI. So it is important for any good portable air compressor to be equipped with stability technology so that when you pump up your truck tire, it remains in one place and maintain the required PSI.
If your compressor does not features a stability technology then try having a rubber-base for the frame. This way it will cause less vibration and stop it from moving because of the vibration. Such rubber foot attachments is helpful in maintaining the constant airflow and inflate the tires quickly.
Why do I need an air compressor for my truck?
Most trucker takes long road trips and often have to drive off-road. As a result, you are at risk of punctured tires and if not taken care of instantly it can lead to leaks and full flatness. No trucker would want to have zero air situation, because it can cost you your trip, assignment, shipment, or your job.
In such situations, if you have a portable air compressor you can relax a little bit and can be assured that your tires will be filled with air whenever necessary. Even in a 100% flat tire, you can still pump it up and manage small leaks until you reach a garage.
How to use a Portable Air Compressor for Truck Tires?
Most portable air compressors are battery operated which is a really good thing that you can power them up by using the battery of your truck. Or if it runs on a natural fuel then you must carry 1/4 load of its tank.
Now once your air compressor is connected to a power source, choose the right valve for your tire and connect it properly. Now adjust the pressure on the pressure gauge present in the compressor. Once everything is set up simply power the air compressor and hold the hose into the valve until it inflates the tires.
Why keep an electric tire inflator the second choice?
As the name suggests itself, electric tire inflators require the proper flow of a current and might not work on your vehicle batteries. Tire inflators are costly and need more maintenance which can be another work done or workload on truckers. Generally, a portable air compressor is safer, lightweight (portable), easy to use, and easily powered equipment. I’m not saying the electric tire inflators are bad, I’m just saying that air compressor has more advantages.
How to Fill Air in Truck Tires Quickly?
Truck tires vary in shape, size, and PSI measures which depend upon the tire brand and its volume. Just like that to pump up your truck tire quickly, you will have to look at which portable air compressor has the right amount of PSI, flow rate, and what is its max delivery power.
If you are not buying the air compressor smartly you might end up taking a long time to fir air in your tires. The time is taken to pump them up completely also depends upon your truckload. If your truck is loaded and carrying heavy material then it might take some time even if you own the best portable air compressors. It happens because the compressor is also fighting back the air reflect caused inside the tire due to the heavy-weight of your truck.
The best way to make sure you inflate the truck tire quickly, simply to make sure the compressor is steady, the PSI is good enough for the wheel size, and avoid human error. You will be fine and get going again in no time.
Avoid Over-Pumped Tires
Make sure you know how much PSI is enough for your truck wheels. Otherwise, you might end up with a full-blown tire that can not be refilled with just an air compressor.
Most vehicles come with a mechanical point weight load along with their supported pressure for their wheels.
The pressure is different among those 18-wheeler or any pickup trucks. So fill in only what is required and avoid over-pumping. Because at the end of the day they are rubber right! and air expands or shrink with respect to temperature.
Conclusion
No matter if you drive off-road or take long trips, or if you never have to face a flat-tire problem, it is always a wise choice to be prepared for the worst. Trucks are heavy they are not your regular honda cars or bikes which you push towards a garage. And having a mid-night mid-road flat-wheel crisis can be really scary. This is why buying a portable air compressor suitable to inflate your truck tire is a must-have automotive tool.
