Investing in a reliable car tool kit can save you time, money, and stress in unexpected situations. Among the Good Tools To Have In Your Car, a tire inflator stands out for its practicality and versatility. This review focuses on the Milwaukee M18 Inflator, a powerful cordless option for maintaining proper tire pressure on the go.
The Milwaukee M18 Inflator features a clear, easy-to-read digital display for precise pressure adjustments. Photo by Lemmy.
Why Choose the Milwaukee M18 Inflator?
Switching from air tools to electric power tools often involves choosing a brand ecosystem due to battery compatibility. As a long-time Milwaukee M18 user, adding their inflator to my existing tool collection was a logical choice. The M18 line offers robust performance suitable for various automotive tasks. This inflator, marketed strangely under “Plumbing Installation” on their website, boasts being the fastest 18V cordless inflator available. More details can be found here.
Priced at $179 for the bare tool (battery and charger sold separately), the M18 Inflator might seem pricey. However, its performance and convenience justify the investment. Preset inflation features allow you to program specific pressure targets, making tire inflation effortless. It consistently reaches pressures of at least 100 PSI, with a rated capacity of up to 150 PSI.
Performance and Features: A Real-World Test
This inflator effortlessly handles various tire types, from cars and motorcycles to trailers. Even after inflating multiple tires, the M18 battery retains a significant charge.
The M18 inflator efficiently uses battery power, even after inflating numerous tires. Photo by Lemmy.
The included accessories, such as the Presta valve adapter, inflation needle, and nozzle, expand its versatility beyond car tires. While the plastic Presta adapter might not withstand heavy use, it’s a convenient addition. The integrated hose with a brass screw-on Schrader chuck might not appeal to everyone, but using right-angle adapters and extensions solves potential accessibility issues.
The included accessories cater to various inflation needs, though users may prefer to upgrade certain components. Photo by Lemmy.
A minor drawback is the open storage compartment under the battery, which could lead to small items getting lost. However, this is a minor inconvenience compared to the inflator’s overall performance.
Who Benefits Most from this Tool?
While a handy tool for any car owner, the M18 Inflator proves invaluable in specific scenarios:
Mobile Mechanics and Roadside Assistance: Its portability and cordless operation make it ideal for on-the-go repairs, especially when a compressor is unavailable.
Agricultural and Heavy Equipment Mechanics: Dealing with large vehicles or equipment in remote locations requires a reliable and portable inflation solution.
Inflating tires on various vehicles, regardless of location, is made easy with the portability of the M18 Inflator. Photo by Lemmy.
Off-Road Enthusiasts: Airing down tires for off-road driving and quickly re-inflating them afterward is crucial, and the M18 Inflator excels in this task.
Fleet Managers: Maintaining tire pressure across multiple vehicles is simplified with the cordless convenience and speed of the M18 Inflator.
Conclusion: A Worthy Investment for Your Car Tool Kit
The Milwaukee M18 Inflator earns its place among the good tools to have in your car. Its speed, ease of use, and versatility outweigh its minor shortcomings. While the price might be a consideration, the long-term benefits of owning a reliable and portable inflator make it a valuable addition for both professionals and car enthusiasts.
Milwaukee M18 Inflator Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 2848-20 |
| Battery Voltage | 18V |
| Dimensions | 13.8”L x 6.4”W x 7.8”H |
| Weight (Tool Only) | 7 lbs |
| Hose Length | 36 in. |
| Accuracy | +/- 1 PSI |
| Fill Range | 0-150 PSI |
| Airflow (SCFM at 0 PSI) | 1.41 |
| Warranty | 5 years |
| Included Accessories | Inflation needle, inflator nozzle, Presta chuck, Schrader chuck |
The Milwaukee M18 Inflator is a powerful and convenient tool for maintaining proper tire pressure. Photo by Lemmy.
