Death, taxes, and getting a flat on your trailer at the least convenient time—just a few of life’s inevitabilities that come into play. If it’s not a blowout or a severe puncture, and a little air will do the trick to get you back en route to the boat ramp. Here are three solutions for inflating your trailer tires.
Manual Pump: Wuyasta Double-Cylinder Foot Air Pump
The Fill: While intended primarily for bicycle tires, a foot pump can do the trick in an emergency situation. All it takes is a little manpower; step on the pedal repeatedly to deliver up to 160 psi of inflating capability. An analog gauge displays the tire’s psi as you pump. It’s foldable, so it’s easy to store in an SUV or pickup-truck bed.
The Chill: It requires effort and for a full-on flat—especially on your tow vehicle or a trailer carrying a heavy boat—it could take a lot of time to provide enough air to make it road-ready.
Price: $27.99; amazon.com
Aerosol: Fix-a-Flat Tire Inflator and Sealant
The Fill: The 24-ounce spray can will fit in any size tow vehicle without taking up too much space. While the others merely refill your tire with air, this can actually seal a puncture up to a quarter-inch in diameter. Shake the can, attach the included hose onto the tire valve and press, and it will add air and a chemical liner to internally seal the puncture so that you can safely drive away for service.
The Chill: It’s a single-use product and might not have enough juice to inflate a fully deflated tire.
Price: $19.99 (24 oz. for a truck/SUV); amazon.com
Read Next: Understanding & Maintaining Proper Boat Trailer Tire Pressure
Electric Pump: AstroAI Digital Tire Inflator
The Fill: If you’re prepared and keep this in your tow vehicle, it’s probably the best choice for quick tire inflation. The AstroAI comes equipped with a 12-volt cigarette-lighter-style plug-in and a 120-volt AC two-prong plug-in, and the digital display gives you an accurate readout of your tire’s psi as you fill. It also comes with several adapters, so you can use it for inflating tubes or balls or other inflatables.
The Chill: You’ll need a 12-volt or an AC power source and likely an extension cord on hand to reach the trailer tires.
Price: $69.99; northerntool.com
Three More Great Options for Portable Inflators
Portable air compressors, or inflators, can be used for multiple purposes, from topping off a low trailer tire to blowing up the kids’ favorite inflatable tow toy. Their compact size makes them ideal for taking from home to car to boat. Multiple power options also work at home or on the water. Here are the key features to consider when choosing a portable air compressor.
Look For Multiple Power Sources
Look for multiple power options in a portable inflator, from the ability to use a common, 110V AC current household wall plug to the 12-volt DC outlet commonly found on most boats. Neither available, or need to pump something up on the dock or beach? Some portable air compressors also feature internal, rechargeable battery power.
Easy-To-Read Analog or Digital Pressure Gauge
Whether the air is used for tires or toys, proper inflation is essential for best performance. Look for an easy-to-read pressure gauge in either an analog or digital format. Many models also feature an automatic shutoff to stop inflation when the desired pressure is reached.
Adapters For Common Items
Look for the inclusion of common adapters to easily blow up inflatable towables, rafts, even balls and fenders. These include short and long cone adapters, as well as needle valves. Standard inflator hoses come tipped with universal valve connectors designed to fit all of the above, as well as standard Schrader tire valves.
