Air compressor

[rob feature]

Good point. I'd likely just run it outdoors in the yard.

I run tubeless now on both my bikes so it's only going to be a handy tool in the future. I've been lucky thus far that three of the four tire installs have worked with my hand pump but moving to heavier casings was a bridge too far for that setup. It was watching how easily the bike store installed the tire on that showed me the light. 3 seconds and pop pop pop!

Any decent presta attachments people swear by?

Prestacycle for adapters. Don't know how I ever lived without them. I got mine from Amazon, but there may be better sources.

For the compressor - I have a big one in the garage and a little Makita Quiet Series in the house. The little Makita will seat 2.5 MTB tires with no problem. I actually use it every day...did not know I needed compressed air in the house 'till I put compressed air in the house. It's constantly blowing off glasses, electronic gear, random dust, etc. And it's comically quiet. And its low current draw makes it perfect to throw in the back of the truck to run off an inverter. They're totally worth the investment.

 

[fooferdoggie]

I got this guy at work its so quiet. I had to seat my fist tubeless tire a 1.5" and my akita cordless could not do it I had to use a co2 cartridge. brought home loud Stany compressor in my bike bag but it may be about history it smells pretty hot running.

https://www.amazon.com/California-Air-Tools-8010-Compressor/dp/B00WM1VPKE/ref=sr_1_18?crid=KC07MSY6E0ZR&keywords=compressed%2Bair%2Btank&qid=1671816846&s=hi&sprefix=compressed%2Bair%2Btank%2Ctools%2C178&sr=1-18&th=1

 

[TrevorB]

I use dive tank to set bead on tubeless tire. Remove valve and hold stem to tank outlet with bit cloth, don't forget ear muffs. Have to be careful not blow tire given its 3000psi but so much leakage normally not issue. Once bead is set fill with sealant, fit valve and inflate with pump.

For general purpose pump 40L 12V are about perfect for inflating bike tires with tubes over 30second to 1minute. I had it in tool box with 7Ahr gelcel.
Now switched to 18V Ryobi one which is so much more convenient and slightly quicker. Excellent for keeping car tires topped up and can even inflate one from empty. Throw it in back of car when taking bikes on holiday.

 

[tomjasz]

Every Harbor Fright tool I've owned has let me down. And often at the most inopportune time. I've found that nearly every major brand name of work tools has a reconditioned line. I've found great pricing on Makita compressors $150-$200. 2.5-gallon tank and enough air for air tools and even a small bead blaster. I recently donated a 50-year collection of tools to Restore Habitat for Humanity. Looking over the thousands of dollars I came to realize those better quality tools in some cases had been in regular use for 50 years. Buy smart and pay once IMO. There were times when I made do until I could save enough to get the better tool. I don't regret it. And being able to pass them on and as high quality mad me feel good. Made them smile too.

 

[rob feature]

Every Harbor Fright tool I've owned has let me down. And often at the most inopportune time. I've found that nearly every major brand name of work tools has a reconditioned line. I've found great pricing on Makita compressors $150-$200. 2.5-gallon tank and enough air for air tools and even a small bead blaster. I recently donated a 50-year collection of tools to Restore Habitat for Humanity. Looking over the thousands of dollars I came to realize those better quality tools in some cases had been in regular use for 50 years. Buy smart and pay once IMO. There were times when I made do until I could save enough to get the better tool. I don't regret it. And being able to pass them on and as high quality mad me feel good. Made them smile too.

With the exception of the big security bit set, yeah, HF tools are junk. Some are even dangerous. I bought what was their top of the line floor jack a decade or so ago. It dropped the car before I could get stands under it. This is the one I recommend if you're a catalytic converter thief, however

I had one of their T-35 T-handles break and throw shards of metal into my glasses. One piece actually stuck. Their zipties start to degrade shortly after you install them. I could probably go on, but you get the point, right? If it can hurt or kill you, maybe spend a little more and buy decent tools.

Good tools are worth it. Buy once, cry once. Pass them down to your grandchildren.

 

[PDoz]

The OP is from Australia so HF tools aren't available, but the concept is similar here - decide if / when it's worth investing in quality , and imho compressors are examples where buying cheap CAN be justified.

This link lists a large chain tool store selection of compressors - everything from relatively cheap through to commercial grade, it gives perspective on the price and quality options we have here

Silent Air Compressors

These compact and lightweight quiet air compressors are packed with professional features, yet still fit in a regular-sized toolbox. Most models are powered by a silent brushless AC/DC+ motor and feature a digital control panel that lets you set precisely how much pressure will be applied to...

www.totaltools.com.au

If my super scabby 10 year old $100 small compressor died today , I'd indulge myself for xmas and spend $450 on this for xmas https://www.totaltools.com.au/all-p...-quiet-0-5hp-5l-oil-free-air-compressor-ab5au It ticks all the boxes for a small unit and I still have my 20 year old big compressor for when I need high air output. But there is no way I'd suggest a first time user sinks that sort of cash into the luxury of a slightly quieter / nicer unit. It's 450% of the cost of my perfectly functional super scabby toy that has done a perfectly good job for 10 years. I'm not going to be here in another 45 years, and I'm not sure my great grandchildren are going to be able to afford a large enough shed to house all those 45 year old high quality tools they inherit. More importantly, I doubt houses in 45 years will be built with the commercial 3 phase, or even 15 amp power supply needed to run a commercial compressor!

Now, I'm a big fan of buying quality tools when they matter. My toolchest is stocked with brands that have a no questions lifetime product replacement policy that I've never had to use . They feel fantastic in the hand and will never leave me stranded. BUT , I've also got a collection of cheaper brand tools for the things used infrequently - the magnetic grab tools, a selection of weird sized torx sockets, even the bike specific tools like the sram / shimano bleed kits and the various cassette adapters. They'd be used 2/3 x a year, and I'm unlikely to get stressed if they break / need replacing in 5/6 years time - but it's REALY convenient to have them and they didn't cost much.

 

[Gionnirocket]

Every Harbor Fright tool I've owned has let me down. And often at the most inopportune time. I've found that nearly every major brand name of work tools has a reconditioned line. I've found great pricing on Makita compressors $150-$200. 2.5-gallon tank and enough air for air tools and even a small bead blaster. I recently donated a 50-year collection of tools to Restore Habitat for Humanity. Looking over the thousands of dollars I came to realize those better quality tools in some cases had been in regular use for 50 years. Buy smart and pay once IMO. There were times when I made do until I could save enough to get the better tool. I don't regret it. And being able to pass them on and as high quality mad me feel good. Made them smile too.

Harbor Freight for sure has some real garbage tools, especially those of more than 5 to 7 year ago. But over the last few years they've really picked up their game and they have some that are more than acceptable for light duty.
And as PDoz... I have some real top quality tools that I've had for decades and some lower end stuff that gets infrequent use and professional grade isn't at all necessary.
And I'm a Craftsman... My toolbox says so!

From what I know Harbor Freight compressors have a decent reputation.
Personally I have a 3 gallon Craftsman that I've had for more than 25 years and typically gets used a handful of times a month and a bit more if I've got some type of project rolling.

 

[tomjasz]

Personally I have a 3 gallon Craftsman

I've got a 40-year-old tankless Craftsman I paid, I thought, far too much for but have used it at least biweekly for 40 years. 90% of my donated tools were 40-50-year-old Craftsman. Twice the weight of my handful of Snap-On specialty wrenches but incredibly durable and precisely cut for proper fit. As I did the tax deduction numbers I was STUNNED by the current cost of decent tools. I did keep all metric 1/4' and bike-specific tools, but some of them are next to go. No more scratch builds. So no need for headset tools and bearing cup tools.

Like this one. In 120F Lost Wages garage and -30F Minnesnowta garage.

 

[tomjasz]

@Gionnirocket looks like I lied. It seems it’s only 22 years old. Up in smoke.

 

[rob feature]

Inflation Tools - Prestacycle

www.prestacycle.com

They make way more stuff than I realized.

I have one of these - lives on my M12 Milwaukee inflator

Prestacycle Big Presta Head - Prestacycle

This head is perfect for Tubeless tires and any Presta valve. It includes our newest version of the Mini Presta Head Gasket using Urethane Elastomer. It's softer and stronger. It lasts more than 5 times longer, gives a better seal and flexes to work anywhere along the Presta shaft for better...

www.prestacycle.com

And one of these on the little Makita - in front of a standard inflator from Kobalt.

Prestacycle Disc Wheel Mini Presta Head - Prestacycle

Smaller Head fits every known Disc wheel made. Includes our newest version of the Mini Presta Head Gasket uses Urethane Elastomer. It's softer and stronger. It lasts more than 5 times longer, gives a better seal and flexes to work anywhere along the Presta shaft for better tubeless tire application.

www.prestacycle.com

 

[tomjasz]

Every presto rim I’ve owned after 1970 sew ups and Campy road bikes have been drilled out for Schaeder valves.

 

[pmcdonald]

The OP is from Australia so HF tools aren't available, but the concept is similar here - decide if / when it's worth investing in quality , and imho compressors are examples where buying cheap CAN be justified.

This link lists a large chain tool store selection of compressors - everything from relatively cheap through to commercial grade, it gives perspective on the price and quality options we have here

Silent Air Compressors

These compact and lightweight quiet air compressors are packed with professional features, yet still fit in a regular-sized toolbox. Most models are powered by a silent brushless AC/DC+ motor and feature a digital control panel that lets you set precisely how much pressure will be applied to...

www.totaltools.com.au

If my super scabby 10 year old $100 small compressor died today , I'd indulge myself for xmas and spend $450 on this for xmas https://www.totaltools.com.au/all-p...-quiet-0-5hp-5l-oil-free-air-compressor-ab5au It ticks all the boxes for a small unit and I still have my 20 year old big compressor for when I need high air output. But there is no way I'd suggest a first time user sinks that sort of cash into the luxury of a slightly quieter / nicer unit. It's 450% of the cost of my perfectly functional super scabby toy that has done a perfectly good job for 10 years. I'm not going to be here in another 45 years, and I'm not sure my great grandchildren are going to be able to afford a large enough shed to house all those 45 year old high quality tools they inherit. More importantly, I doubt houses in 45 years will be built with the commercial 3 phase, or even 15 amp power supply needed to run a commercial compressor!

Now, I'm a big fan of buying quality tools when they matter. My toolchest is stocked with brands that have a no questions lifetime product replacement policy that I've never had to use . They feel fantastic in the hand and will never leave me stranded. BUT , I've also got a collection of cheaper brand tools for the things used infrequently - the magnetic grab tools, a selection of weird sized torx sockets, even the bike specific tools like the sram / shimano bleed kits and the various cassette adapters. They'd be used 2/3 x a year, and I'm unlikely to get stressed if they break / need replacing in 5/6 years time - but it's REALY convenient to have them and they didn't cost much.

OMG, I'm such a cheapskate if I get a whiff of a budget tool that does the job I'm there! I have a tub full of Ozito cordless tools that work for me just fine. TBH given I'm the least handy person I know anything quality would just be wasted on me For occasional use if something does 80% of the job for a third or quarter the price that sounds about right to me.

So to recap:
* I don't need a massive tank, 10-15L should inflate a tire/tyre/opana
* a presta attachment may not be necessary
* buyer beware with cheap brands (but they might be fine)

That sound about right?

 

[PedalUma]

@PDoz, If you ride your bike in front of the truck-train you get tired, in back you get exhausted. That is if you drive on the correct side of the road. Or it is not good. Because I am ambidextrous I might like a car with the clutch to the right. For theft prevention.

 

[Deacon Blues]

A bit off topic, but I've been looking for a portable electric air pump that has a dedicated Presta valve connection.
I have an Amazon 'drill' styled electric air pump, that comes with a Presta valve adapter, but it only work on approximately 40% of my Presta valves.
It's frustrating, because I haven't a clue as to why it works on some Presta valves and doesn't work on other valves.

The Park Tool air compressor tool looks promising, but it's expensive and presently hard to get.

So, my question is, has anyone come across a cordless, electric air pump that is designed exclusively for Presta valves?

 

[fooferdoggie]

A bit off topic, but I've been looking for a portable electric air pump that has a dedicated Presta valve connection.
I have an Amazon 'drill' styled electric air pump, that comes with a Presta valve adapter, but it only work on approximately 40% of my Presta valves.
It's frustrating, because I haven't a clue as to why it works on some Presta valves and doesn't work on other valves.

The Park Tool air compressor tool looks promising, but it's expensive and presently hard to get.

So, my question is, has anyone come across a cordless, electric air pump that is designed exclusively for Presta valves?

I modified mine.

 

[Gionnirocket]

I modified mine.
View attachment 143198

For you or the lady

 

[rob feature]

A bit off topic, but I've been looking for a portable electric air pump that has a dedicated Presta valve connection.
I have an Amazon 'drill' styled electric air pump, that comes with a Presta valve adapter, but it only work on approximately 40% of my Presta valves.
It's frustrating, because I haven't a clue as to why it works on some Presta valves and doesn't work on other valves.

The Park Tool air compressor tool looks promising, but it's expensive and presently hard to get.

So, my question is, has anyone come across a cordless, electric air pump that is designed exclusively for Presta valves?

You can always stick an adapter on the Schrader output of your choice. That's what I do with the Milwaukee M12 inflator. Not designed for a presta, but adapted for one

 

[PDoz]

@PDoz, If you ride your bike in front of the truck-train you get tired, in back you get exhausted. That is if you drive on the correct side of the road. Or it is not good. Because I am ambidextrous I might like a car with the clutch to the right. For theft prevention.

Nah, mate, if you RIDE the bike on the correct side of the road it's called a road train. We never try to train our trickies. Bloody yanks and their truck fetish -clutching at ways to prevent crime....

 

[PDoz]

OMG, I'm such a cheapskate if I get a whiff of a budget tool that does the job I'm there! I have a tub full of Ozito cordless tools that work for me just fine. TBH given I'm the least handy person I know anything quality would just be wasted on me For occasional use if something does 80% of the job for a third or quarter the price that sounds about right to me.

So to recap:
* I don't need a massive tank, 10-15L should inflate a tire/tyre/opana
* a presta attachment may not be necessary
* buyer beware with cheap brands (but they might be fine)

That sound about right?

To be honest, you don't even need 10 l . Anything that can provide a quick burst will do , it's more about the flow rate than the total volume. If you look at the manual pumps with volume attachments for seating tubeless rubber, they only have 2/3 litres. Short thick tubing helps - bernoulli knew his stuff.

nb If you want to go hard core budget, just buy a truck / tractor tube and make a valve to valve adapter. ( ie a bit of hose with the inflater attachment at both ends) . Pump up that tube by hand / cheap 12 v pump, then use the high flow to seat the bike rubber. Some hard core 4x4 drivers use their spare wheel for this - pumped up at silly pressure, it can be used to quickly reinflate the other rubber as needed. I'm willing to bet that a $100 supercrap compressor looks like good value after you hand inflate a tractor tyre

 

[Gionnirocket]

Either that or buy an Air Shot canister that can be refilled with a compressor.

Either that or buy a compressor.