12 Volt compressor advise needed

[30-30remchester]

I am looking to buy a small 12 volt air compressor to use while afield. Does anyone have any preferences? I doubt any are built in the USA but if there in one built here that would cinch the sale. I am willing to pay a premium for a top quality product. After viewing EBAY I see that a company called VIAIR are trying to be sold for many times what others ask. These are made in China, but if they all are is this the best? Was any ever built here? Am willing to purchase an older one if is US built.

 

[Outlawmws]

Are you up for a small project? Some of the off roaders are taking suspension air pumps off of caddy's and Lincolns, and making them into air pumps. They are supposed to be better than any over the counter 12V pump. I haven't tried it yet, but have one buried somewhere in the garage...

 

[fitz11]

Are you up for a small project? Some of the off roaders are taking suspension air pumps off of caddy's and Lincolns, and making them into air pumps. They are supposed to be better than any over the counter 12V pump. I haven't tried it yet, but have one buried somewhere in the garage...

Any more information on this? Sounds cool I need a good pump for the truck.

 

[Outlawmws]

For a number of years Caddy and Lincoln used air pumps to adjust the suspension in the big cars. it was to help keep them level while maneuvering. these pumps are supposed to be strong, fast and last a long time. I probably have notes around here somewhere, but I'm short of time tonight...

Certainly one of the mechs here has the general model years off the top of their heads. IIR they were mounted on the Drivers side front fender well.

Be sure to get the hose connector as on at least one of these it's an orphan..

 

[Danglerb]

What use do you have in mind, pump up tires or something else?

I have a Lincoln Continental with a air suspension, and the pump is like $450 factory, $180 aftermarket, for a new one, not sure on the current bone yard rate, but its on my list if I ever get around to going to a pick a part. I the upper limit on pressure might not be too high either, and a LOT of used ones may be on there last legs.

I've been thinking about the $26 (before coupon) air pump at HF, basically a copy of the cheaper Vair, but generally very good reviews.
http://www.harborfreight.com/12-volt-100-psi-high-volume-air-compressor-96068.html

Two other options on my seriously considered list, the Craftsman C3 cordless inflator, or a small rig with a nitrogen tank.

The guys that are seriously into portable tire inflators are the rock crawlers who need to reinflate all 4 tires after a crawl on the rocks.

Lincoln air pump.

 

[Danglerb]

For a number of years Caddy and Lincoln used air pumps to adjust the suspension in the big cars. it was to help keep them level while maneuvering.
.

Nothing that fast or dynamic, just ride height with different loads. Newer cars only use them in the rear. I can't say for sure if the ride is better, but its very good, and after a few Lincolns I know how to fix them cheap.