Recommendations for Tire Inflator/Gage Assembly?

[Beemer]

Looking for recommendations for tire inflator/analog gage/whip/chuck assemblies.
I don't mean the portable compressor units but rather the add-on end control trigger with analog gage assembly.
I caught a glimpse of my tire dealer's tool and it had a very large (nice) gage but I didn't catch the name.
I've seen listings for Jaco, Topring, Milton and a few apparent copies of Jaco type design.
Use will be home hobby, not commercial.

 

[Dig Doug]

I have quite a few

snap on is the best one I have blue inflator W/ gauge

power tank has sone nice ones

Tire Inflator with Gauge

Power Tank tire inflators are the best in any industry because of their durability, accuracy, and ease of operation. Where most suppliers only offer one option, we have a range of tire inflators because we believe in always having the right tool for the job. For an in depth guide on how to...

powertank.com

 

[Beemer]

I have quite a few

snap on is the best one I have blue inflator W/ gauge

power tank has sone nice ones

Tire Inflator with Gauge

Power Tank tire inflators are the best in any industry because of their durability, accuracy, and ease of operation. Where most suppliers only offer one option, we have a range of tire inflators because we believe in always having the right tool for the job. For an in depth guide on how to...

powertank.com

Thanks.
Snap On anything is to extravagant for my DIY interests...... Home hobby maintenance.
I took a look at a PowerTank, I like the lower pressure range gage but am not loving the gradualtion presentation between numbers.

 

[Dig Doug]

You can get a different gauge for the inflator. I use mine for off road stuff - max pressure for my use is more like 35 psi.
Call them They are good people!

or just buy a liquid filled gauge and swap it out….

1/4 standard thread nothing special


I have that exact gauge on my set up and it takes a little bit to get used to reading it

if you want say 17 psi it’s the 1st dark line after 15. I would fill it to the start of the 2nd white line. Seems kinda off, why not just have a hash mark


I don’t sell them or have anything to do w/ power tank - They do try to up their game and have really good quality products…

 

[Beemer]

You can get a different gauge for the inflator. I use mine for off road stuff - max pressure for my use is more like 35 psi.
Call them They are good people!

How does that Hippo2 chuck of theirs release?
They show a video of it just snapping on but not how to remove it.
Is it really secure when snapped on the valve stem?

 

[AJHD]

If you want analog, keep it simple.
These are the two I've used and recommend. I've used the Milton working in automotive shops, and I used the Merlin when I worked at Caterpillar.


Milton (USA);

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002SRL20/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Merlin (Taiwan);

Dual Head Angle Chuck Inflator with Inline Gauge

Amazing deals on this Dual Head Angle Chuck Inflator at Harbor Freight. Quality tools & low prices.

www.harborfreight.com

 

[dcoleman88]

Astro Pneumatic has some nice digital readout options. I have the 3018 and love it. The 3081 looks to be similar but analog.

 

[vavet]

I see a few on the tirerack website from dill and intercomp.
id be inclined to compare those with some of the other suggestions you have here.
I went around the garage Yesterday with my cordless inflator and set pressure on 3 bikes, one wheelbarrow, a lawn spreader, and the utility trailer (2 tires + spare).

 

[lardy1]

I have the Milton mentioned above. It's a bit hard to read for my old eyes but I really have no complaints. I always think I'm going to put a locking end on it but I never have.

 

[Beemer]

If you want analog, keep it simple.
These are the two I've used and recommend. I've used the Milton working in automotive shops, and I used the Merlin when I worked at Caterpillar.


Milton (USA);

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002SRL20/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Merlin (Taiwan);

Dual Head Angle Chuck Inflator with Inline Gauge

Amazing deals on this Dual Head Angle Chuck Inflator at Harbor Freight. Quality tools & low prices.

www.harborfreight.com

Thanks,

After seeing a dial version at the tire shop that's a preference this time around so the Miltons linked aren't what I want.
I actually have one of those but want to move up.
Vision isn't what it once was so the little displays on those are not useful.
I know that they have a dial version though.

Grandpa made his life working at CAT in Decatur.

 

[Beemer]

Deleted redundant post.

 

[Beemer]

Astro Pneumatic has some nice digital readout options. I have the 3018 and love it. The 3081 looks to be similar but analog.

Thanks.
I want analog because I am bad at ignoring batteries left in things and finding a corrosive mess.
I think less range than the 3081 has would be better for my needs.

 

[Beemer]

I see a few on the tirerack website from dill and intercomp.
id be inclined to compare those with some of the other suggestions you have here.
I went around the garage Yesterday with my cordless inflator and set pressure on 3 bikes, one wheelbarrow, a lawn spreader, and the utility trailer (2 tires + spare).

Thanks.
I'll take a look.
I have the compressed air piped in the garage and attached workshop so I don't need a cordless inflator. I have used a portable for the truck when going on the beach and I tended to get impatient waiting around so I prefer the AC compressor at home or an air tank if I'm out of range.

 

[Beemer]

I have the Milton mentioned above. It's a bit hard to read for my old eyes but I really have no complaints. I always think I'm going to put a locking end on it but I never have.

Exactly, me too. It's gotten the job done but a big dial is actually the objective.

 

[Beemer]

You can get a different gauge for the inflator. I use mine for off road stuff - max pressure for my use is more like 35 psi.
Call them They are good people!

or just buy a liquid filled gauge and swap it out….

1/4 standard thread nothing special


I have that exact gauge on my set up and it takes a little bit to get used to reading it

if you want say 17 psi it’s the 1st dark line after 15. I would fill it to the start of the 2nd white line. Seems kinda off, why not just have a hash mark


I don’t sell them or have anything to do w/ power tank - They do try to up their game and have really good quality products…

Do you know where Power Tank are made?

 

[jonesg]

Looking for recommendations for tire inflator/analog gage/whip/chuck assemblies.
I don't mean the portable compressor units but rather the add-on end control trigger with analog gage assembly.
I caught a glimpse of my tire dealer's tool and it had a very large (nice) gage but I didn't catch the name.
I've seen listings for Jaco, Topring, Milton and a few apparent copies of Jaco type design.
Use will be home hobby, not commercial.

I got this one, it has all the features I prefer,
locks on to tire stem. trigger control and analog meter.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BN3VS2PZ/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[shibertus]

If you want analog, keep it simple.
These are the two I've used and recommend. I've used the Milton working in automotive shops


Milton (USA);
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002SRL20/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Only the hose on these is US made. The body of my unit was poorly machined and the sharp edges cut the rubber hose where it passes through. The gauge was inaccurate, so I had to use a separate gauge to set the pressure. When the hose started leaking at one of the crimps I just tossed it. Unfortunately it seems the quality is not what it used to be.

 

[AJHD]

Only the hose on these is made in the US. The body of my unit was poorly machined and the sharp edges cut the rubber hose where it passes through. The gauge was so inaccurate I had to use a separate pressure gauge. When the hose started leaking at one of the crimps I just tossed it. Unfortunately it seems the quality is not what it used to be.

On the Milton? It's been several years since I had mine. So I can't comment on anything current production. But if all that is indeed true, it ***** but also not surprising. Quality overall seems to be going downhill on many tools from many brands over the past few years.

Anyway, I cheaped out and went with the HF Taiwan copy. But the Merlin served me well during my time at CAT. It was used almost daily, mostly on water trucks. Didn't have any issues with fit, finish, function or construction. The hose and crimp held up just fine. Honestly for the price, it's a good tool. Especially if you can get it on sale.

I did however pay full price for the Milton 556 as my large bore inflator. I wasn't going to mess around with something cheap or improvised. At CAT the larger equipment uses large bore valve stems. I was satisfied with that model. I did not experience or observe any fit, finish, function or construction issues. Good extended reach hose, good crimps, great locking quick connect and no sharp or rough edges. Maybe this model is being built differently. I don't know.

Amazon.com

 

[Beemer]

Thanks for all the ideas guys.
I'll update when I make a decision.
Atleast I have refined the requirements: analog, good sized dial, no need for high pressure range so lower top pressure would make the dial less busy.
Wishlist would add rebuildable with removable parts, alternate chuck availability and built in North America. I know that the last one is a stretch but I always atleast try to support our labor force, but not at the expense of quality or required features.

 

[shibertus]

On the Milton? It's been several years since I had mine. So I can't comment on anything current production. But if all that is indeed true, it ***** but also not surprising. Quality overall seems to be going downhill on many tools from many brands over the past few years.

Yes, this was the Milton S-506. I thought I was buying a reputable product from a trusted brand, but at least in my experience they are no longer what they used to be.

 

[Azzkker]

I've bought 4 of these Milton s-506 in the last year and each one of the Milton are 5 psi or more out of calibration. None of my employees like using them because of this. Sadly they lack the quality they once had.

I bought the blue point unit with round dial gauge and it is much better. Plus it has a lifetime replacement warranty through snap on.

 

[Dig Doug]

How does that Hippo2 chuck of theirs release?
They show a video of it just snapping on but not how to remove it.
Is it really secure when snapped on the valve stem?

Pull back on the collar

`

 

[Dig Doug]

Do you know where Power Tank are made?

Nope, call em!

 

[Dig Doug]

My gauge is older I’ve had it for over 10 -12 years & still works great

I have the European style ( at least that’s what they called It back then )

 

[Dig Doug]

You can buy rebuild kits for the inflator and different gauges, They have a digital set up if your into that…

 

[Beauregard]

Astro 3081 with the giant 3" dial. Easy to use, easy to read.

 

[Dig Doug]

Do you know where Power Tank are made?

 

[Beemer]

Wake up call this morning using my

Pull back on the collar

`

The #2 version appears different than that.

 

[Beemer]

Communicated with the company and apparently the release is by pulling back the red collar.

 

[scooby074]

I have one of the old school Milton S506 and an ANI 25 Flex. The 506 is a tank, but its not lock on and it doesnt have a pressure release if you overfill, plus the hose is too short

Ive been using the ANI for several years now, and its plenty accurate to keep TPM's happy and since Ive added the LocknFlate chuck, its just about perfect. Hose is long enough that I can stand up, and off to the side while inflating, which is nice. And it has an air release too.

If I didnt have the ANI, Id probably get the Astro or the OEM Michelin made in France gauge.

 

[Beemer]

My gauge is older I’ve had it for over 10 -12 years & still works great

I have the European style ( at least that’s what they called It back then )

Thanks Dig Doug.
Your name takes me back to the beginnings of video games.

Do you have to have to tighten your various chucks with a wrench or is hand tight enough for quick switches?
I am guessing that you chucks are generic.

I see that PowerTank has quick disconnects that appear less bulky than the Miltons or generics but they are very expensive.

 

[Beemer]

My gauge is older I’ve had it for over 10 -12 years & still works great

I have the European style ( at least that’s what they called It back then )

Thanks Dig Doug.
Your name takes me back to the beginnings of video games.

Do you have to have to tighten your various chucks with a wrench or is hand tight enough for quick switches?
Are those

They are not very good at email communication; No replies to date.

 

[Benito]

Thanks.
I want analog because I am bad at ignoring batteries left in things and finding a corrosive mess.
I think less range than the 3081 has would be better for my needs.

less range model here, 0-65psi: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015NC4DXY/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[M6erfan]

This is an excellent, easy to read analog gauge inflator . . .

Longacre Magnum Tire Pressure Gauge 52007

<p><strong>NEW Design Tire Pressure Gauge</strong> - Great looking new graphics, now reads in 1/2 lb increments, includes both angle and ball chucks</p> <...

www.longacreracing.com

 

[Beemer]

This is an excellent, easy to read analog gauge inflator . . .

Longacre Magnum Tire Pressure Gauge 52007

<p><strong>NEW Design Tire Pressure Gauge</strong> - Great looking new graphics, now reads in 1/2 lb increments, includes both angle and ball chucks</p> <...

www.longacreracing.com

I saw that product line information. Do you have that particular one? The gage appears to be bigger than most.
Something noted in the specs is that they say it does not hold air as follows:

"Holds Pressure:

No"

I prefer to take it off and the reading remain until bled if that is what the specs are referring to.
Also, it does not appear to have a locking chuck that would be a good feature to have.

 

[M6erfan]

I saw that product line information. Do you have that particular one? The gage appears to be bigger than most.
Something noted in the specs is that they say it does not hold air.

"Holds Pressure:

No"

I prefer to take it off and the reading remain until bled if that is what the specs are referring to.
Also, it does not appear to have a locking chuck that would be a good feature to have.

I don't, a friend of mine back in TX does and it is huge and very easy to read. I don't remember if it holds reading until released. My regular (non inflating) Linacre gauges do hold the reading until the bleed valve is pushed.

 

[kbeefy]

I had the astro 3018 and really liked it, until I lost it.

Replaced it with an AstroAI and it seems fine, but not as nice as the Astro.

I also have several powertank items, they usually have nice stuff.

 

[pelletman]

I have a couple digital, probably an old Milton and this one linked below, no way me or my dad paid that much, it probably came from a yard sale cheap. It is almost always the one I go for, it works really well

Analog Tire Inflating Gun

Maintain proper tire pressure with our Analog Tire Inflating Gun. Features a locking air chuck, protective rubber surround, and up to 85 psi readout.

www.griotsgarage.com

 

[Beemer]

I have a couple digital, probably an old Milton and this one linked below, no way me or my dad paid that much, it probably came from a yard sale cheap. It is almost always the one I go for, it works really well

Analog Tire Inflating Gun

Maintain proper tire pressure with our Analog Tire Inflating Gun. Features a locking air chuck, protective rubber surround, and up to 85 psi readout.

www.griotsgarage.com

Thanks but I avoid that dealer. I'll skip the details.

 

[66HertzClone]

I have the Milton mentioned above. It's a bit hard to read for my old eyes but I really have no complaints. I always think I'm going to put a locking end on it but I never have.

My dad had problems adjusting the pressure of the tires on his lawn tractor. I bought him a dial type and painted a thin red line on the lens for the gauge at the pressure these tires needed. It made it very quick and easy for him to check them.