VIAIR Air Compressor Review - Part 1 (First Look and Power Hookup Mod)

In this video, I give you a look at my new VIAIR 450P-RV 12VDC Portable Air Compressor. I show you what's included in the kit and share my initial impressions.
Then I detail a quick-connect power port mod I'm installing to run it off of my RV battery bank via a Minn Kota trolling motor plug.
I show the install details and discuss the finished project. Finally, I give the new power port a test and demonstrate the VIAIR in action.
NOTE: This is not a manufacture review freebie. My wife bought me the air compressor as a Christmas gift.
Stay tuned for Part 2 of the review when I demo it airing up different, how long it takes and compare it with my old cheaper Slime compressor for speed and noise.
Disclaimer: Working with electricity can be dangerous. I’m not a certified RV technician merely an RV owner. This video should not be taken as instructional. If you decide to do a similar type mod as depicted in the video, do the research and be aware of all the risks involved. I accept no liability, you have been warned. - Ray
Products Mentioned in the video: (Amazon Affiliate Links)
VIAIR 450P-RV Compressor - amzn.to/2LKxsrA
Marinco Receptacles - amzn.to/31XSprd
Milwaukee Multitool - amzn.to/2xt2gtJ
Milwaukee Hole Saw Kit - amzn.to/2kDSVGi
8 GA Cable - amzn.to/2L9cMbA
30 Amp Inline Fuse Holder - amzn.to/2xwxxfm
Marine Grade Silicone - amzn.to/2LLkObO
Slime Air Compressor - amzn.to/2LbrleP
---------------------------------
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[@LoveYourRV]

See Part 2 of the review - kzbin.info/www/bejne/hn7NaJ5nn5eLrq8 See full review blog post - www.loveyourrv.com/viair-450p-rv-12vdc-air-compressor-review-and-rv-hookup-mod/

[@georgefourlaris7948]

Great informative video Ray. I've had my Viar for almost two years and love it. Never crossed my mind to do your mod. I like how you think outside the box!

[@larryhorton6737]

I bought one last year. I really like that it shuts off after a couple of seconds if you’re not squeezing the trigger.

[@jimc.6127]

Your a true tradesman and a priceless homework tool for a s.t.b.'er. Thanks Ray

[@allisonsmith6354]

Thanks for showing us Angie at the end. She is just so sweet.

[@bsoutdooradventures9541]

Once again a masterpiece for redoing a much better system for the VIAIR..going to get one!! Thanks again! Goodness gracious that cutie Angie..I love Beagles!!

[@amarmot3635]

Both my Viair compressors have been outstanding. I keep each one in a plastic box. If it’s raining, I put the lid on the ground, then put the Viair on the lid and put the box over it to protect it. The box also holds tire repair equipment such as plugs and cement, and the torque wrench sockets and adapter. I’ve used the Viairs well beyond the recommended time and tire size limits when assisting other RVers. No problems or failures.

[@pj9731]

I liked this mod so much that I did a similar install thanks to you! I purchased two Minn-Kota plug and socket sets, a Noco 12' cigarette lighter extension cable and a Buss 30 amp 285 circuit breaker. I mounted one socket slightly to the left of the front storage door on my fiver, did the same as you with the battery clamps for my Viair RV450p, cut one end plug off the 12' Noco cable and added the extra Minn-Kota male plug for charging my Noco gb-150 with the solar house batteries. I used a Buss 30 amp 285 series circuit breaker so I can manually switch it on/off anytime.

[@LoveYourRV]

Sweet!

[@pj9731]

Love Your RV, I forgot to mention that a little film of dielectric grease around the o-ring on the male plug makes an easier connection.

[@gbressler]

I just ordered one yesterday. Love the plug you put in.

[@bcrispin6252]

Picked one up a few weeks ago. Seems to be well built and the two times I’ve used it, it worked great. Hey Angie. 🐶

[@ttlsteve9235]

Looks like a nice little compressor! Another good video as I'm learning a lot. Thanks!

[@EverythingRVbyPat]

Great video. Looking forward to seeing the full review. I’ve had my eye on this one for a while now.

[@MikeSalsgiver]

Another superb video, Ray. And your timing couldn't be better. I just bought the exact same compressor and love it, although I will say the gauge threw me at first, too -- I ended up buying the digital gauge inflation gun, which still does the same "let-it-settle" thing also. My problem is that I don't really have a solar system on our RV (just a small 60-watt trickle charge panel on the roof for the house batteries). She is old enough that I am not sure I'm going to invest in a larger system. But I'm going to add this video to my RV playlist and come back to it when I've got things figured out. Love your RV (videos -- ;-) -- have a great summer! Safe travels, my friend.

[@DnSAdventures]

We opted for the 400-P model and just hoped we would be able to situate the truck in a way to reach all the RV tires in case of an emergency lol. We did find if you park on one side of the RV next to the tires, you can pass it through underneath the RV and reach the other side with one cable. Wouldn't work too well in tight quarters though...so we may just buy an extension cable later on. Thanks for the review as always Ray, have a great week! - Shane

[@spudbono5747]

That exterior 12v is a very handy modification. I wish I was industrious enough to add one!

[@jamesboswellii]

Excellent idea, using the trolling motor plugs!!

[@pj9731]

Nice mod Ray, I use my Noco Gb150 in override mode to supply power (clamp to clamp) to my Viair 450P for light usage.

[@danbrophy3785]

Thanks for sharing your plug install. I’ve been thinking of doing the same thing, except I think I’d do it inside a storage area to avoid an external hole.

[@ltcduggins]

Nice bit of kit! Thanks for the review.

[@rclark4u]

Cool little air compressor. Thanks for the information.

[@MickWoodworking]

Great video Ray ..... I use the same compressor together with my NOCO BG150. Glad to see you made it back to your summer camp site safely.

[@LoveYourRV]

Yup, back in paradise for the summer. :)

[@marshallpoe8087]

Ray, I love that the specs call for 23 - 30 amps draw when running, but the wires that come with the pump are so undersized. Glad it works well. I love the use of the Minkota plug. Great idea!

[@LoveYourRV]

Yeah, all I can think of is they don't expect it to need the max 23 amps often, maybe the typical draw is much lower. I'll do some amperage tests in my review, to see what the normal draw is. Cheers! Ray

[@snubbedpeer]

Good that you added Angie at the end there!

[@gymsreviews8155]

Another great video Ray. I am going to be doing alot of stuff to my fifth wheel also. just not sure where to start. Keep them coming. Thanks.

[@AKRichardM]

I thought about the same compressor and running it off the fifth wheel battery bank. But decided to get an AC compressor and run it off of the inverter. A little less efficient but a fraction of the cost. But a nice mod. I’ve been thinking of installing a high amperage 12 VDC socket on the rig.

[@allan1062]

Ray, another job well done.

[@joecool509]

I used Anderson connectors on mine. Nice work

[@ihatetrump3603]

I have the same brand compressor, but I don't recall the model without checking. At any rate, I am very happy with it and it was worth the approximate $120 I paid for it.

[@ScotWalt858]

Very nicely done!

[@blakeyokum1547]

I’d be interested to know if Angie went for her walk, lol. She looked tuckered out. Nice video Ray.

[@LoveYourRV]

Yup, but her walks are getting a lot shorter. Over 15 years old now. :)

[@margaretkeays3434]

You're a handy dandy fella! I love your videos!

[@frystephenw]

We'll done as always. A clever idea that I may copy. Might I suggest using some rubber hose to make a grommet around the bulkhead hole though.

[@LoveYourRV]

Thanks. The metal edge has been rounded and painted so pretty smooth, and I don't expect any movement there as its the main frame but will add some plastic wire loom, its what the factory did with the large wire bundle that goes through the same opening on the other side of the compartment.

[@alanjones9884]

Great mod and review. Thanks for the info.

[@LoveYourRV]

You bet. Cheers, Ray

[@nathanl157]

I like your "Electric board" Nice Job! Your very handy. My first and only experience with Harbor freight was not good. But like another viewer posted, "you get what you pay for" it just would have been nice if it was made in the USA. It does sound like an item to keep in mind.

[@robertgarbe6348]

Love mine, works great

[@PentaxLife]

Great video that is one nice air compressor.

[@timmarks5314]

Thanks for your response. I have a Class A and I'm leaning towards the 400 since it works faster. But I don't think I can go wrong either way.

[@LoveYourRV]

You're welcome, also found this forum thread where someone asked VIAIR about the differences - www.irv2.com/forums/f52/viair-reply-about-400p-versus-450p-versus-new-rvs-series-air-compressor-differences-438948.html

[@RVHabit]

Nice job. The plug is a great idea.

[@LoveYourRV]

Thanks. :)

[@salcigar]

It's beautiful work, and we'll done. I would have hard mounted the compressor inside that compartment with an external chuck. That way I never have to take it in and out of the bag into the elements, just connect the hose to the chuck and Bobs your uncle.

[@LoveYourRV]

Thanks. I like to store the compressor in one of my trucks tool boxes. That way I can using it when away from the trailer or loan it out. For example when I go off road and want to deflate the truck tires and reinflation when back on pavement. Cheers, Ray

[@allan6021]

I have the 400P (non-RV) model and really like it. Like you said, they are well built and quiet. The 400P has a shorter duty cycle than the 450P but its plenty for my needs. I'm not a fan of those stiff coiled plastic air hoses they give you in the package so I bought a 50" hybrid air hose. It will reach from my truck's battery in the front passenger side back to the tires on the opposite side of the travel trailer with length to spare.

[@LoveYourRV]

Cool, I've read the 400P has better CFM than the 450P so I guess its a trade-off. 450 can go linger, but the 400 is quicker.

[@MrEroshan]

I love mine, protip those will also let you use a staple and brad gun.

[@sgtevmckay]

Dude! I love this, the mod could go way-way further. These 150and 200 PSI air pumps are also designed for a permanent mount. You could attach to the Frame of your truck in the on Wheel well, mid-undercarriage or under your hood, if you have room (usually fits in a secondary Battery area if not in use)...additionally there are several sizes on tanks for 1 to 5 gallon (high-pressure) tanks ( i highly recommend this in long run). you can then set up a quick fitting by the license plate on a truck, and the 30ft airlines should make it to all tires. Also; Look into getting an air gauge in the dash (real simple here if you have some dash room) The air filter can be attached to a flex/tube so that the air can be filtered from a clean installed area and away from the ground and underside of a vehicle...definitely look this one up Now the really neat modes: You can attach and mod the system to maintain inflation to air shocks if you have air ride in your truck or trailer. And for the really fun thing....Go out an buy a pair of either "big Rig" or Train airhorns to run off the tank as well....150 to 180+ DBs really gets folks attention :P All these mods are readily available for search on youtube and various blogs/Vlogs....and once you have the tank and compressor...everything else is essentially affordable Have lots of fun with teh new compressor, just keep in mind what can be done additionally ;) Reagrds The Sarge

[@LoveYourRV]

Cool! Thanks for the ideas! I already picked up an air nozzle for using compressed air to blow out stuff like the RV furnace and AC ducts and the fridge vents. Cheers, Ray

[@darrellwampler6473]

Very nice mod!👍

[@anthonymarino4260]

i have the 300p works great looking at vid the postive wire going through balkhed you need some split plastic wire loom so that it won't chafe on frame nice unit

[@LoveYourRV]

Good idea, a few others have mentioned it, too. The metal edge is rounded and painted so I wasn't too worried. Also, I don't foresee much movement on the wire given the hookup to the sidewall and left some slack. If there was I'd have graver concerns. ;) I guess it's just good practice, so will throw some loom on it. Cheers, Ray

[@allens7476]

I have the Viair also and love most things about it. Except, the two hoses are NOT the same. One is the master and the other is the extension. That's because Viair decided to use male fittings on both the compressor and the gauge. Putting both hoses together is like being tortured because their springiness makes them instantly tangle. I found if I just use one hose I can reach everything if I stretch out the power cord too. Also, the Viair doesn't supply enough VOLUME of air to reseat the bead on a rim. I discovered when I installed metal valve stems for a TPMS. Still, the best unit out there.

[@LoveYourRV]

Thanks for the real world feedback, Cheers, Ray

[@daviekimm2724]

Cheers!

[@robertthompson6958]

Here is one big problem with the Viair Ray. To protect itself it shuts itself down when it overheats. In the hot hot summer days in the southwest USA it overheats quickly preventing you from airing up the tires. I’ve used it successfully in cooler months but I had to limp to a truck stop when trying to air my tires in July.

[@LoveYourRV]

Thanks for the feedback. I'll add it to my review as a con for the unit. I guess an option would be to put it inside the vehicle with the air conditioning running. Cheers, Ray

[@DennisWintjes2]

Where you run your wire through the metal frame, you should have a grommet as the wire may rub. Adding a piece of flex tubing should do they trick.

[@LoveYourRV]

Thanks. The metal edge has been rounded and painted so pretty smooth and I don't expect any movement there as its the main frame but will add some plastic wire loom.

[@gregchamberlain8519]

Ray I was thinking you were gonna mount the air compressor in the trailer and have a quick disconnect for the air chuck on the outside where you plug the electric in. that kinda makes a little more sence that way your not dragging the compressor around.

[@LoveYourRV]

I want to be able to have the compressor with me when we are off exploring in the truck. Will be nice to air down the tires for off road washboard and back up for pavement.

[@amarmot3635]

As you say, in order to get an accurate reading from the built-in air pressure gauges on Viairs, the pump must be stopped

[@TheChertman47]

I'll stick with my $60.00 pump. It does just fine for me. 22.5 tires 80-110 psi

[@dokmanian]

great video just wondering could you use that compressor to blow out water lines for winterizing rv/trailer

[@LoveYourRV]

I bet it would work but I've never tried a compressor method, I've only had to winterize once. lucky me. I think the main concern would be not to use too much pressure and damage the RV plumbing. The trigger fill nozzle with the gauge would come in handy.

[@josephtuszynski5629]

Hello from Joe and Nancy from Apollo Pa. I KEEP AIR IN TIRE 2 OR 3 PSI LOWER THAN MAX COLD AIR PRESSURE. As soon as you start driving down road, your tire pressure increases 2 to 4 psi, therefore you are up to max pressure. Just saying.

[@LoveYourRV]

Hello. :) I have TPMS and often see the PSI increase 10-12 PSI as the tires heat up driving on a warm day. But they are designed to do that. Max cold pressure is just that. I've always been told its best to air up the tires for the load they are carrying. Most tire manufacturers publish load tables. ie. www.michelintruck.com/reference-materials/manuals-bulletins-and-warranties/load-and-inflation-tables/#/ and vehicles and trailers will have a sticker with recommended PSI You want to inflate for max tread on the pavement for even wear and best traction. Too low of inflation and the outside edges wear faster, too high and the tire wears in the middle. Either scenario reduces traction and handling. I've read a good way to know is chalk across the tire and drive a bit and see if the chalk is wearing off evenly. Cheers, Ray

[@RobertMememe]

Also put the silicone on the threads so water can't follow the threads

[@LoveYourRV]

Good tip, thanks!

[@IdahoReloader]

Nice upgrade! I think you could have pieced in a few threaded PVC or ABS pipe pieces to prevent cutting that bigger hole in back. What do you think?

[@LoveYourRV]

Sounds like a good idea.

[@OldMeanGeezer]

I think a lot of people would be surprised at some of the HIGH quality items that are made in CHINA! Of Course there are TONS of LOW quality items made there also. Long Story short, just because it is made in China is not a indication of the quality. You get what you pay for!

[@nonrevhogan8938]

Hey Ray, another nice review and MOD. Seen a couple reviews on this one and it seems to be a good unit. I do have a different question for your expertise. Do you have 30 lbs propane tanks and if so how do you go about filling them. Only dealt with 20 lb ones. But next RV will have 30 lbs ones and full they will be a little heavy. Do you take out and go get filled. Will a station fill while still in RV. Heard of RV parks having mobile. How does that get handled. Thanks Ray...

[@LoveYourRV]

Yes, I have an auto switchover valve so when one is empty I take it and get it filled. An empty 30 lb tank is 24 lbs and full 54 lbs. I'm still able to manage it no problem. I put it in the back of the pickup bed. Some places will fill right on the truck others you have to take it out, depends on the local laws. I know of one person that uses a little-wheeled cart to do it. Cheers, Ray PS here is a tip for transport - www.loveyourrv.com/rv-propane-cylinder-transport-tip/

[@nonrevhogan8938]

Love Your RV Thanks Ray. Knew you get around a lot and would have good knowledge. Some people on some blogs make it seem harder than it is I’m sure. Was just curious if they could be filled on RV. Sounds like No. I’m not worried about it. And I knew you’d have a good tip.

[@LoveYourRV]

Some may fill on the RV or lift it down or back up for you. I've usually taken them in with my truck though sometimes if convenient ie. big parking lot or easy access to the propane, I will pull the tank out of the trailer and get them to fill it. One of the places in Quartzsite called the RV Pitstop has it down to a drive-thru service. They will fill it right on the vehicles but Arizona laws are known to be less strict than other places. ;)

[@deans2790]

Hey Ray, some of your Amazon links aren't working any more. Wanted to buy the outlet and socket kits. Amazon says page not found.

[@LoveYourRV]

Thanks, guess the seller quit or changed the store around, here is a page with a bunch of different options - amzn.to/31XSprd

[@naiiawahVideo]

Much better connector would be Anderson Powerpoles. The standard connector can handle up to 45A, but the 30A pins are more common. The HAM radio and Gov. emergency service communities swear by them. Check out powerwerx.com/panelpole-panel-mount-powerpole-housing for a similar panel mount but with Powerpoles. Keep up the great videos!!

[@LoveYourRV]

Cool! I know lots of folks that use them for solar ground panels. Cheers! Ray

[@floodtech]

Hey Ray I've been looking at getting this compressor, Do you know if you can hook up an air regulator to it so you can use this to blow out the water lines on a travel trailer (30 - 50 psi)

[@LoveYourRV]

Yes, I have heard of people using it for that, haven't tried it myself though. Not sure if the unit work as it or whether they also needed to a an accumulator tank to it.

[@cyndifoore7743]

Ray, how do you think it would work with pneumatic tools? Sweet Angie, that’s a pretty cool looking bed!🐶

[@LoveYourRV]

It would quickly run out of air as it doesn't have much of a reservoir. I bought an air gun attachment and it gives a quick blast then I have to wait while it recharges the pressure. But you can buy optional tanks. eg. - amzn.to/2srtR8R I may do that as a future project. :)

[@jericonavas6369]

Wow 3 years ago they were $219?!! They're close to $400 now

[@LoveYourRV]

Must have been on sale at the time because the 450P-RV cost us around $300 back in 2018 and it's currently listed at $349 on Amazon. Or maybe you are comparing to a different model. The 400P is currently $239

[@ryans5280]

How’s the compressor working after a year?

[@LoveYourRV]

Great, here is an update I did in December - kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWrIpH2Aj5uCjZY Cheers, Ray

[@timmarks5314]

I understand the 400 model works faster on RVs. If so, why would I buy the 450 model?

[@LoveYourRV]

The 450 is capable of 100% duty cycle for 40 minutes versus 33% for the 400, on the website they list the 400 as good for Class C and the 450 good for Class A. Since the units will last a long time I decide to get for the 450 in case I ever decided to get a Class A when I'm older. Also thought it may be nice when off-road and deflate the tires for better traction them have to re-inflate them all for the highway again. Specs can be found here - www.viaircorp.com/rvs-portables

[@RamJetGMC]

IT IS A GOOD UNIT BUT THE BAG RIPPED THE FIRST DAY I HAD IT ALL THE SEAMS PULLED OUT - MY OLDER BACK UP PUMP HAD A BETTER BAG

[@LoveYourRV]

Wow, that sucks. so far mine seems pretty sturdy. Maybe it was a dud from the factory or these days there is a lot of knock-off products out there. I hope yours isn't one of them. Cheers, Ray

[@gerard9128]

great job one comment alot of the you tubers that do vidio on here use hand cameras to shoot Why don't any of you get table type tri pod so you don't shake so much and use a try pod stand for other shots i can understand using the camera in tight spots like the install but alot and i mean lot of other vidio rv tubers who make alot of videos do the same . Some tubers shake so bad you cant enjoy them just MHO

[@marketshare5273]

You should be reported to the Canadian Humane Society for disturbing that beagles nap with the compressor. 😱😂😂 good choice on the compressor when you really need one on the side of the road and get it done fast they are worth the money.

[@LoveYourRV]

haha. :)

[@calgondave]

That air compressor noise probably annoys the beagle while she's resting.

[@sonanraihing903]

Can this be used in jcb backhoe big tyre

[@LoveYourRV]

The specs on the 450P-RV list max tire size as Max. Tire Size: 275/80R22.5

[@sonanraihing903]

Love Your RV tyre size for jcb backhoe loader is 16.9-28 (rear tyre). Do you have any alternative suggestion?

[@LoveYourRV]

Maybe contact VIAIR and see what model they recommend - www.viaircorp.com/contact

[@Fucknuts4u]

Yuppie air compressor

[@LoveYourRV]

Dang, got the wrong one then! I'm *definitely* not young or urban or professional. :)

[@Fucknuts4u]

@@LoveYourRV - The compressor is marketed to yuppies, not to your average person who can't justify spending $200+ on a mini-compressor...that's still made in China, no less, just like all the under $50 compressors.

[@bobfish3176]

fill four tire and it is so hot you cant touch it for an hour. I have several burns on my hand from this thing!!

[@LoveYourRV]

Thanks for the feedback Bob, I will mention it as a con in my review. Cheers, Ray I noticed these warnings when I read the manual "This compressor will become very HOT during and immediately after use. Do not touch any part of this compressor with bare hands, other than the ON/OFF switch during and immediately after use."

[@brandonthompson7599]

A

[@elkabong3136]

The compressor is around 400, guess ur wife didnt tell you….she’s a keeper…😜

[@LoveYourRV]

I think back 5 years ago, it may have been cheaper, but yes, nice wife, but she knows how much money we save by me doing all the maintenance and repairs. She always buys me the tools I want. :) The compressor is still working great, so it's worth buying good stuff that lasts. Cheers, Ray

[@elkabong3136]

@@LoveYourRV glad to hear it. Just ordered mine. Have a great holiday weekend !