Viair P70 Portable Air Compressor
Update 2025: I wrote this article more than a Decade Ago. As of 2025 the Model of Viair you will most likely want to consider is the 88P which is 12 volt that will inflate to 120 PSI and has nearly 8,000 reviews on Amazon and sells for about $80. No I do not own one as I have access to a very expensive Dewalt dual tank and never run on old tires. Plus my tires are too large and heavy for me to change roadside. If you travel a lot I would recommend Road Side Assistance programs like AAA. But if you pull a Travel Trailer or Cargo Trailer behind your van and do your own tire changes this would be a nice fit in your ready bag for emergencies or just carry a couple of cans of Fix-a-Flat which is what I do.
Product Reviews: Viair P70 Air Compressor
Keeping your Van Tires inflated to the proper pressure is critical for proper handling and improved mileage and tire wear. Personally I own a high end Dewalt Commercial Contractors Compressor. But it’s a beast to hault around. The Viair P70 Portable Air Compressor is small, surprisingly powerful (and quick to inflate for it’s size). You can take this one with you on the road as it’s powered by your Vans Cigarette Lighter. In fact for most people this little gem has plenty of power to inflate their Van Tires, Air Mattresses, Toys, etc.
Real world review of the Viair P70 Portable Air Compressor posted by D. Casselman at Amazon
This is an excellent 12 Volt compressor for light to medium duty inflation jobs. It’s small and packs neatly inside the included bag. I keep mine in the trunk for roadside emergencies or even just the occasional pressure adjustment. It also makes light work of inflating bicycle and lawn equipment tires. I also own a Craftsman, Campbell Hausfeld, & a Superflow HV35 from Q Industries(see the review). I have tested all the units on time to inflate a 215-70R14 from zero to 32lbs. In terms of speed to inflate the Viair 70p and Superflow HV35 blow away the lesser units from Craftsman and C.H. It takes 15+ minutes to inflate with either of the lesser models. The 70p can handle the task in around 4.5 minutes where the HV35 was closer to 4 minutes flat. In addition to the speed advantages both higher end units do their job in a much smoother and quieter manner. The 70p’s advantages over the HV35 are: Build quality, lower sound output and lower running temperatures. It also seems to draw less current making it less likely to blow your accessory port fuse. With it’s sturdy construction, smooth, quiet, & cool operation, I have little doubt that this compressor will be there when I need it. For the $40 price tag it is a high value per dollar when compared to lesser makes.
Specifications for the P70 Portalbe Air Compressor