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Old 01-14-2011, 10:36 AM   #1
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Stay away from VIAIR compressor systems

I installed a VIAIR on-board air system on my SMB less than 6 months ago and has barely been used. This system is not worth the money or time. Here are the key problems:
1) the threads on the ports on the 2.5 gallon tank are painted. If you do not tap the threads clear of paint, they will leak air. NO matter how much sealent or tape is used, the ports will leak. I've spent HOURS trying to fix the leaky ports - highly frustrating.
2) the relief valve and water dump valve are of poor quality. The relief valve has already failed and requires replacement
3) VIAIR does NOT stand behind their product. VIAIR directed me to a retailer to purchase replacement parts.

Bottom line, the system is designed poorly, uses low quality parts and is not supported by the manufacturer.

-Marc
2000 EB50 Q4x4 7.3PSD
MTN VAN

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Old 01-14-2011, 11:14 AM   #2
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Re: Stay away from VIAIR compressor systems

Made in China. My portable Viair has been OK. But the $79.00 copies are just as good and $200 cheaper. Air fittings are hard too seal on anything. The only thing that works is pipe dope. It's a messy paste but it dries hard and seals. Tape won't do it. Home Depot has it in a small metal can.
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Old 01-14-2011, 05:20 PM   #3
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Re: Stay away from VIAIR compressor systems

Have you had any problems with the compressor?
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Old 01-19-2011, 12:17 PM   #4
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Re: Stay away from VIAIR compressor systems

The compressor is working fine, although the quick connect coupling (for inflating the tires) leaks.


-Marc
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Old 01-20-2011, 10:20 PM   #5
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Re: Stay away from VIAIR compressor systems

thanks i was just looking at them, then i looked at what appears to be there knock offs at harbor freight, prop just get one of those
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Old 01-21-2011, 02:31 PM   #6
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Re: Stay away from VIAIR compressor systems

I have had 2 extreme outback setups on my last 2 vehicles and have nothing but great things to say about them.
And I abuse my stuff pretty bad.
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Old 03-11-2011, 02:02 PM   #7
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Re: Stay away from VIAIR compressor systems

Update:

Now the pressure switch (determines tank pressure and operates the pump) has gone bad. But unlike my first few calls to VIAIR, they were helpful this time and sent me the entire replacement switch assembly with no hassle. The difference? People. Lenny was helpful and listened; Scott was a ****.

Now you know who to call when you have a problem with your VIAIR system...

-Marc
2000 EB50 Q4x4 PSD MTN VAN
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Old 03-11-2011, 07:40 PM   #8
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Re: Stay away from VIAIR compressor systems

When I called Shelterlogic for a replacement pole that had escaped quality control the girl wanted photos, serial numbers and the promise of my firstborn. I called back with all the info ready, and the guy listened to the problem was just like "same address? done." Ditto the defective end piece, they just listened to the problem and said "we'll replace it".

The worst is when you get one of the megalomaniac gatekeepers who won't let any contact ever pass them by...

Glad you got this problem fixed anyway.
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Old 03-11-2011, 07:41 PM   #9
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Re: Stay away from VIAIR compressor systems

went through 3 VIAIR compressors consecutively. luckily they warrantied them until i finally just got my money back. JUNK!
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Old 03-17-2011, 09:45 PM   #10
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Re: Stay away from VIAIR compressor systems

Hey gang, I am a plumber by trade and anytime we have a threaded joint on anything except steam you should use teflon and pipe dope on it. Some brands of dope are better that others, but any should be okay...hope this helps, because chinese crap is a pain to work with....

GL.
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