Top 12 Best On Board Air Compressor for Service Trucks

If you have a service truck, you know how important it is to have a good on board air compressor, especially if you’ve ever had the unfortunate circumstance of having a flat tire.

There are many different brands and models of on board air compressors on the market, so it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you.

In this article, we will discuss the best on board air compressor for service trucks.

Factors to consider when choosing an onboard air compressor for a service truck

There are a few key factors to consider when choosing the best on-board air compressor for your service truck.

You’ll want to consider the size of the compressor, especially if this will be on-board the truck. Next, you’ll want to consider the CFM rating, power source (gas or electric), and the overall customer reviews/ratings.

Additionally, you’ll want to think about the specific needs of your truck and what type of air compressor will best meet those needs.

We’ve discussed each of these factors more thoroughly within the FAQ section of this article.

With all of these factors in mind, you should be able to choose the best on-board air compressor for your service truck.

Best On Board Air Compressor For Service Truck – Top 12

VIAIR 88P - 00088 Portable Compressor Kit with Alligator Clamps, Tire Inflator, Tire Air Pump, 12V, 120 PSI, for Up to 33 Inch Tires

★★★★★
$89.95
$76.81
Buy On Amazon
amazon.com

Features

  • Brand: ‎VIAIR
  • Voltage: ‎12 Volts (DC)
  • Power Source: ‎Corded Electric
  • Noise Level: ‎76 dB
  • Cover Included: ‎12 Ft. Air Hose, Air compressor, 120 PSI Pressure Gauge, Solid Brass Twist-on Tire Chuck, 3 pc. Inflation Tips Kit, LED/power indicator, 9 Ft. Power Cord, Dual Battery Clamps
  • Item Weight: ‎4.5 Pounds
  • Maximum Power: ‎276 Watts
  • Capacity: ‎1.47 Cubic Feet
  • Color: ‎Silver
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: ‎9.8 x 3.2 x 5.6 inches
  • Style: ‎Air Compressor
  • AC Adapter Current: ‎20 Amps
  • Air Flow Capacity: ‎1.47 Cubic Feet Per Minute
  • Model: ‎88P
  • Hose Length: ‎16 Feet
  • Manufacturer: ‎Viair Corporation
  • Item Weight: ‎4.5 pounds
  • Product Dimensions: ‎9.8 x 3.2 x 5.6 inches
  • Country of Origin: ‎China
  • Item model number: ‎88P
  • Is Discontinued By Manufacturer: ‎No
  • Exterior: ‎Painted
  • Manufacturer Part Number: ‎00088
  • OEM Part Number: ‎00088

Description

  • Quick Tire Inflation: Fill a 225/60/18 tire from 20 to 30 PSI in 50 seconds or less
  • Consistently rated as one of the best 12-Volt portable tire inflator by top-ranking product review websites.
  • Completely portable air compressor powered via alligator clamps direct to your vehicle's battery.
  • Works great for tires up to 33" on Trucks, SUVs, Sedans, and small ATVs
  • 1. 47CFM Free Flow at 0 PSI
  • LED/power indicator, 9 Ft. Power Cord, 12 Ft. Air Hose, 3pc Inflation Tip Kit

VIAIR 10007 Constant Duty Onboard Air System

★★★★★
$450.45
Buy On Amazon
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Features

  • Brand: ‎VIAIR
  • Voltage: ‎12 Volts
  • Power Source: ‎Battery Powered
  • Noise Level: ‎68 dB
  • Item Weight: ‎9.5 Pounds
  • Capacity: ‎2.5 Gallons
  • Color: ‎Silver
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: ‎26.5 x 14.5 x 10 inches
  • Air Flow Capacity: ‎1.8 Cubic Feet Per Minute
  • Hose Length: ‎30 Feet
  • Manufacturer: ‎Viair Corporation
  • Item Weight: ‎9.5 pounds
  • Product Dimensions: ‎26.5 x 14.5 x 10 inches
  • Country of Origin: ‎China
  • Item model number: ‎10007
  • Is Discontinued By Manufacturer: ‎No
  • Exterior: ‎Painted
  • Manufacturer Part Number: ‎10007
  • OEM Part Number: ‎10007

Description

  • Intended for inflation of tires up to 37 inches. Designed to be installed and mounted onto the vehicle.
  • Includes all parts needed for installation of you very own onboard air solution for tire maintenance and small pneumatic tools
  • Comes with a VIAIR 450C Air compressor and a 110 to 145 PSI Pressure switch.
  • 150 PSI maximum working pressure and 100% duty cycle at 100 PSI
  • Can inflate four tires up to 37 inches in diameter. Designed for uninterrupted use for up to an hour (at 72 degrees ambient temperature) One year manufacturer's defect warranty included with copy of the receipt. Please check the manufacturer's website for a wiring diagram.

Viair 10000 Onboard Air System

★★★★★
$189.03
Buy On Amazon
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Features

  • Manufacturer: ‎Viair Corporation
  • Brand: ‎VIAIR
  • Model: ‎10000
  • Item Weight: ‎8.12 pounds
  • Product Dimensions: ‎10.25 x 7.5 x 6 inches
  • Country of Origin: ‎China
  • Item model number: ‎10000
  • Is Discontinued By Manufacturer: ‎No
  • Exterior: ‎Painted
  • Manufacturer Part Number: ‎10000
  • OEM Part Number: ‎10000

Description

  • 1-gallon air system kit designed to work with air horns and lockers
  • Includes: Air tank, air compressor, omega bracket with mounting hardware, pressure switch (85 PSI on, 105 PSI off), 40-amp relay, 145 PSI safety valve, t-fittings, 1/4-inch drain cock, 1/4-inch compression fitting, 1/4-inch plug, pair of 1/4-inch NPT to 1/8-inch BSP, 20-foot 16-gauge wire with inline fuse holder, accessory airline, and electrical connections
  • 1-gallon air tank and 98C compressor combine for plenty of power
  • For air horn use, air lockers, and a host of other light duty pneumatic needs
  • Reliable air source in a smaller volume and a cost-effective package

VIAIR 300P Air Compressor Kit, 12V DC Portable Tire Inflator 2.3 CFM, Offroad 4x4 Air Compressor for Truck, Jeep, SUV Tires, Air Pump for car tires, 150PSI Max working pressure

★★★★★
$218.95
$149.99
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Features

  • Brand: ‎VIAIR
  • Voltage: ‎12 Volts (DC)
  • Power Source: ‎Corded Electric
  • Noise Level: ‎73 dB
  • Cover Included: ‎25ft 5-in-1 Inflator/Deflator Air Hose with Inline 100 PSI Gauge, Deluxe carry bag anti-vibration tray and more.Air Hose Length: 25 ft.Power Cord Length: 8 ft
  • Item Weight: ‎8.7 Pounds
  • Maximum Power: ‎414 Watts
  • Capacity: ‎2.3 Cubic Feet
  • Color: ‎Silver
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: ‎10 x 7.5 x 5 inches
  • Air Flow Capacity: ‎2.3 Cubic Feet Per Minute
  • Model: ‎Viair
  • Hose Length: ‎25 Feet
  • Manufacturer: ‎Viair Corporation
  • Item Weight: ‎8.7 pounds
  • Product Dimensions: ‎10 x 7.5 x 5 inches
  • Country of Origin: ‎China
  • Item model number: ‎30033
  • Is Discontinued By Manufacturer: ‎No
  • Exterior: ‎Painted
  • Manufacturer Part Number: ‎30033
  • OEM Part Number: ‎30033
  • Amperage: ‎30 Amps

Description

  • 12 VOLT - 150PSI Max Working Pressure, engine must be running during use.
  • 2.40 CFM Free Flow
  • 150 PSI maximum working pressure and a 33% duty cycle
  • Direct heavy-duty dual battery clamps with 40-amp inline fuse

VIAIR 450P - 45043 Automatic Function Portable Compressor, Tire Pump, Truck/SUV Tire Inflator, For up to 42 Inch Tires

★★★★★
$349.95
$300.35
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Features

  • Brand: ‎VIAIR
  • Voltage: ‎12 Volts (DC)
  • Power Source: ‎Corded Electric
  • Noise Level: ‎69 dB
  • Cover Included: ‎3 pcs Inflation Tips Kit, Presta Adapter, 30ft inside braided coil hose, Deluxe Dual Compartment Carry Bag, 160 PSI Tire Inflation Gun, 12V Portable Compressor
  • Item Weight: ‎13.05 Pounds
  • Maximum Power: ‎317 Watts
  • Capacity: ‎1.8 Cubic Feet
  • Color: ‎Silver
  • Material: ‎Rubber
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: ‎10.87 x 5.8 x 7.48 inches
  • AC Adapter Current: ‎23 Amps
  • Air Flow Capacity: ‎1.8 Cubic Feet Per Minute
  • Model: ‎450P Portable Compressor
  • Hose Length: ‎30 Feet
  • Manufacturer: ‎Viair Corporation
  • Item Weight: ‎13.05 pounds
  • Product Dimensions: ‎10.87 x 5.8 x 7.48 inches
  • Country of Origin: ‎China
  • Item model number: ‎45043
  • Is Discontinued By Manufacturer: ‎No
  • Exterior: ‎Painted
  • Manufacturer Part Number: ‎45043
  • OEM Part Number: ‎45043

Description

  • 12 VOLT - 150PSI Max Working Pressure, engine must be running during use.
  • 1.80CFM Free Flow at 0 PSI. Air Hose: 35 feet. Ingress Protection Rating is IP54
  • Reads pressure on the fly with easy-to-use tire inflation gun, and includes an automatic shutoff function that powers down the unit when the compressor is turned on, but not actively filling tires
  • Quick connect inflation hose with tire inflation gun and rubber over mold pressure gauge. Direct heavy-duty dual battery clamps with 40-amp inline fuse
  • Includes deluxe carry bag anti-vibration tray and more

Viair 10002 VIAIR Quarter Duty Onboard Air System

★★★★★
$231.50
Buy On Amazon
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Features

  • Manufacturer: ‎Viair Corporation
  • Brand: ‎VIAIR
  • Item Weight: ‎0.16 ounces
  • Product Dimensions: ‎23 x 14 x 10 inches
  • Country of Origin: ‎China
  • Item model number: ‎10002
  • Is Discontinued By Manufacturer: ‎No
  • Exterior: ‎Painted
  • Manufacturer Part Number: ‎10002
  • OEM Part Number: ‎10002
  • Voltage: ‎12 Volts

Description

  • Designed to actuacte smaller air horns, air lockers and for minor load levelling adjustments. Not intended for tire inflation.
  • Includes all parts needed for installation of you very own onboard air solution for air lockers and small air horns. Just connect your air line into our onboard air system.
  • 120 PSI maximum working pressure and 25% duty cycle
  • Remote mount air filter assembly, sealed compressor, 2.0 gallon air tank, 90 to 120PSI pressure switch and more.
  • Can be used to inflate helper bags for load leveling, inflate four tires up to 31 inches in diameter or use with heavy duty air horns.

Viair 20001 PSI Ultra Duty Onboard Air System

★★★★★
$581.46
Buy On Amazon
amazon.com

Features

  • Manufacturer: ‎Viair Corporation
  • Brand: ‎VIAIR
  • Item Weight: ‎31.5 pounds
  • Product Dimensions: ‎26 x 13 x 9.9 inches
  • Country of Origin: ‎China
  • Item model number: ‎20001
  • Is Discontinued By Manufacturer: ‎No
  • Exterior: ‎Painted
  • Manufacturer Part Number: ‎20001
  • OEM Part Number: ‎20001

Description

  • Intended for inflation of tires up to 37 inches or to actuate air horns that require 200PSI
  • Includes the essential components to install an onboard air system: 480C Air compressor, pressure switch, 2.5 gallon air tank, relay, air tank fittings, air line and wiring.
  • 200 PSI maximum working pressure, 1.76 CFM at 0 PSI
  • Can inflate a 37 Inch Tire from 0-30PSI in 7 minutes and 10 seconds.
  • One Year Manufacturer's defect warranty through manufacturer with receipt. Air tank should be used with a drain cock and pressure release valve.

Wolo (860-C) Air Rage Heavy-Duty Compressor

★★★★★
$164.74
Buy On Amazon
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Features

  • Brand: ‎Wolo
  • Voltage: ‎12 Volts
  • Cover Included: ‎Unit^Instruction Guide
  • Item Weight: ‎10.95 Pounds
  • Capacity: ‎5 Gallons
  • Color: ‎Regular
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: ‎13 x 4 x 7 inches
  • Air Flow Capacity: ‎3.5 Cubic Feet Per Minute
  • Model: ‎860-C
  • Manufacturer: ‎Wolo Manufacturing Corp.
  • Item Weight: ‎10.95 pounds
  • Product Dimensions: ‎13 x 4 x 7 inches
  • Item model number: ‎860-C
  • Exterior: ‎Smooth
  • Manufacturer Part Number: ‎860-C
  • OEM Part Number: ‎860-C

Description

  • Fleet and Vehicle Maintenance
  • Manufacturer: Wolo
  • Country of Manufacturer: China

Vixen Air Suspension Kit for Truck/Car Bag/Air Ride/Spring. On Board System- 200psi Compressor, 3 Gallon Tank. for Boat Lift,Towing,Lowering,Leveling Bags,Onboard Train Horn,Semi/SUV VXO4831B

★★★★★
$330.38
Buy On Amazon
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Features

  • Manufacturer: ‎Vixen Air
  • Brand: ‎Vixen Air
  • Model: ‎VXO4831B
  • Item Weight: ‎23 pounds
  • Package Dimensions: ‎32.3 x 17 x 9.9 inches
  • Country of Origin: ‎China
  • Is Discontinued By Manufacturer: ‎No
  • Manufacturer Part Number: ‎VXO4831B
  • Voltage: ‎12 Volts

Description

  • Tank capacity: 3 gallon (12 liter)
  • 12 volt 200 PSI Compressor (Black) with Remote Filter
  • Anti-Corrosion Coating
  • Precision Welded
  • Remote Filter, Pressure Switch, Drain Valve, Relay with Pre-wired Plug and Mounting Hardware Included

Vixen Horns 2.5 Gallon (9.5 Liter) Train/Air Horn Tank with 200 PSI Compressor Onboard System/Kit 12V VXO8325

★★★★★
$278.18
$248.68
Buy On Amazon
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Features

  • Manufacturer: ‎Vixen Horns
  • Brand: ‎Vixen Horns
  • Model: ‎VXO8325
  • Item Weight: ‎33.5 pounds
  • Package Dimensions: ‎32 x 17.5 x 9.5 inches
  • Country of Origin: ‎China
  • Item model number: ‎5841732950
  • Is Discontinued By Manufacturer: ‎No
  • Manufacturer Part Number: ‎VXO8325
  • Voltage: ‎12 Volts

Description

  • Tank capacity: 2.5 gallon (9.5 liter)
  • 12 volt 200 PSI Compressor
  • Anti-Corrosion Coating
  • Precision Welded
  • Pressure Gauge, Pressure Switch, Air Hose and Mounting Hardware Included

FAQs

What is an air compressor for service trucks?

Air compressors are ideal to be on-board a service truck in case there’s a flat tire, as

they can quickly and easily inflate the tire to the proper pressure. Compressors are also

handy for powering air tools such as impact wrenches, ratchets, and drills.

How does an air compressor work for service truck tires?

An air compressor for service truck tires typically consists of a small tank that stores compressed air. The air is then delivered to the tires through a hose and nozzle attachment. Some models also include a gauge that indicates the amount of pressure in the tires.

What size compressor do you need to service trucks?

For inflating service truck tires, a 5-gallon air compressor should be more than sufficient. This is because it’s quite a heavy duty task, especially if more than one tire needs inflating. So it ensures that you can get the job done, a 5-gallon air tank is recommended.

What Considerations When Choosing An Air Compressor For Painting Cars

PSI Requirements

Pressure supply systems must provide enough pressure to fill the paint sprayer tank. Pressure requirements vary depending on the size of the system. Smaller systems require less pressure than larger ones.

CFM Requirements

Compressors need to deliver a certain amount of airflow to keep up with demand. The flow rate required varies depending on the application. High speed applications such as car bodywork require greater volumes of air than do low speed applications.

Duty Cycle

A duty cycle is the percentage of time that a pump spends running. The longer the duty cycle, the lower the efficiency of the pump. Pumps with short duty cycles run constantly, but pumps with long duty cycles only run intermittently.

Horsepower Requirements

The horsepower rating of a compressor determines how fast it runs. Most compressors operate between 1,500 and 3,000 rpm. Higher speeds reduce the life span of the motor.

Tank Size

The capacity of a tank determines how much paint can be stored before refilling. Paint cans range from 10 to 100 gallons. Larger tanks hold more paint.

Noise level

A compressor produces noise during operation. Some compressors produce less noise than others. A quiet compressor may not be suitable for certain applications.

Oil-free pump vs oil lubricated pump

An oil-free pump does not require any oil to operate properly. These pumps do not use mechanical seals and therefore do not need to be cleaned after each use. However, oil-free pumps tend to cost more than their oil-lubricated counterparts.

Portability/size

Compressors come in various sizes. Smaller ones are easier to transport but take up more space. Larger ones are heavier and harder to move around.

Cost

Depending on the size and features you want, you should expect to spend anywhere between $100-$500.

Reviews

You can check out reviews online before making a decision on which one to buy.

Durability / Materials

Electric compressors are usually made out of metal while gas compressors are usually made of plastic. Metal is generally stronger than plastic. However, if you want something durable then go with plastic. Plastic is lighter and easier to transport.

Warranty

Both electric and gas powered compressors come with warranties. Most manufacturers offer a warranty period ranging from one to five years. Some manufacturers even offer extended warranties. Extended warranties cover repairs done after the expiration date of the original warranty.

Maintenance

There are many things that need to be maintained regularly. These include filters, hoses, oil levels, belts, and bearings. All of these parts should be inspected periodically. Failure to maintain any of these parts could cause serious damage to the compressor.

Jeff Stelling

Jeff Stelling is an air compressor obsessive who has been working with compressors for over 25 years, since he was an apprentice engineer in the mid 90’s. He designed Aircompressorcompare.com to offer technical guidance and buying advice for compressors.

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