Firestone Heavy Duty Air Compressor Versus Xtreme-Duty Air Compressor

Question:

What is the duty cycle on the F9499? How long can it be run at a time? The F9499 will take 2.4 times to pump up the suspension as the F9287. What is the duty cycle of the F9287? The original pump was a Gast 2.4 CFM 100 duty cycle. I bought this RV used and so I do not know how much of the time it was running. What controller do you suggest be used to maintain 100psi? Do these have check valves on out put and good air cleaners on input? This is presently located above the LT front tire and fully exposed to water and dirt from the road. Will this last very long? Would it be better if it was inside the closed luggage compartment? What would you recommend I use to replace the old compressor and its regulator etc. Any other thoughts or suggestions? Thanks

asked by: Tom A

Helpful Expert Reply:

The duty cycle on the Firestone Heavy Duty Air Compressor part # F9499 is 30%. The flow rate of this compressor is 0-30 psi in 14 seconds and 0-60 psi in 35 seconds while using a 1/2 gallon tank.

The duty cycle on the Firestone Xtreme-Duty Air Compressor part # F9287 is 100%. Because the Xtreme-Duty Air Compressor has a 100-percent duty cycle, if it is run for an extended period of time, the maximum air pressure rating will be reduced from 150 psi to 100 psi. The flow rate of this air compressor is 0-30 psi in 7 seconds and 0-60 psi in 18 seconds while using a 1/2 gallon tank.

Unfortunately, Firestone does not rate the maximum amount of time any of their compressors can be used. Instead you will need to refer to their duty cycle. I am not sure what you mean by using a "controller" to maintain 100 psi. If you are referring to a pressure switch, I recommend using the Firestone Pressure Switch part # F9193 as this will ensure you have a minimum of 100 psi in your air tank at all times.

All of the Firestone air compressors have built-in check valves to prevent air from escaping. The best filter we have for these compressors is the Screw-On Compressor Filter for Air Lift Load Controller Compressors part # AL10978. The Xtreme-Duty Air Compressor does however come with an air filter but the Heavy Duty Compressor does not.

The location of the compressor itself will not necessarily affect its performance or life. You will however need to run a snorkel for the air filter to avoid contaminants from entering the system if mounted below the vehicle. This can be easily done by using an airline to reroute the air filter away from foreign contaminants.