Tyre Compressors

[andrewparker]

I was wondering whether to buy a 12v tyre compressor for home, just so I don't have to go to the garage to inflate/deflate my tyres. Is this realistic or are these things more for emergency use?

This one caught my eye -

http://lovetyres.com/p/Tyre-Accessories/Electric-Tyre-Compressors/Michelin-12V-Tyre-Inflator-with-Digital-Gauge

[stealthwolf]

I have used both a footpump and a tyre inflator and have found both to be inaccurate. I would inflate to just over required psi, then use a gauge to double check the settings. Overinflating means you just need to let a bit of air leak out and recheck rather than having to reconnect the pump.

[Matto]

I have a VW compressor that came in the boot with some foam as I didn't have a space saver (have since purchased one) but do the same as Stealth. The gauge on the compressor isn't very accurate so use the compressor to inflate plus saves the leg muscles then check with another gauge I know is accurate.

[Hedge]

I use a footpump and a manual gauge.

I wouldn't trust a garage's in built gauge.

[Eddie-NL]

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Genuine-Audi-Skoda-Seat-VW-Tyre-Inflator-Compressor-Puncture-Repair-Fluid-/261141279976?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&hash=item3ccd3bb4e8

genuine vw compressor and tyre foam

[Matto]

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Genuine-Audi-Skoda-Seat-VW-Tyre-Inflator-Compressor-Puncture-Repair-Fluid-/261141279976?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&hash=item3ccd3bb4e8

genuine vw compressor and tyre foam

Only thing you have to watch is if you still use VW for servicing they kindly remind you that the foam is out of date and want around £50 for a new can. I picked up an 18" space saver delivered for £56 that will never go out of date 

[Eddie-NL]

when I had my golf, I had a full size spare and compressor and foam. They never told me my can of foam was out of date, which it was

[PND]

I got one of these reduced to £15 in Sainsburys a while back.  Does the job nicely.   

AutoCare - Automatic Digital Inflator Air Compressor with Pressure Gauge TMX437



You preset it to your required pressure, connect it, press the button and off it goes.  I found that if you initially set the preset slightly higher than required, then it ends up spot on.

[andrewparker]

Thanks chaps

Think I'll buy a 12V compressor and a manual gauge.

[Kalpsn2000]

Regarding gauges, I have this tyre pressure gauge:



http://www.amazon.co.uk/RACE-PROFESSIONAL-TYRE-PRESSURE-GAUGE/dp/B000VZ8S26/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1355481597&sr=8-2

I know its pretty expensive for what it is (even though its a couple of quid cheaper than I bought it for) but the quality is brilliant and is accurate

[tony_danza]

I have one of those, it's super accurate.

[Tortaruga]

+1. Good gauge.

[garrardrj]

They make a bloody racket and i have had two and both broke quite quickly . I use a Bicycle Track pump , is alot better then you think it will be , adds psi quite quickly too , alot quicker than a comopressor type thing . Use a handheld gauge to check pressure .