Engine mounted aircompressor

Is anybody using that engine mounted aircompressor for there air tank ? I would like to use the little air compressors for emergency back-up only.
Thanks

 

Fairly common in the off-road community for running air tools and airing up tires when miles from civilization. They use an air conditioning compressor and electric clutch. The old style York compressors are best, as the crank case oil can be separated from the air line. The new style compressors need to be oiled occasionally like an air tool, and have an oil separator in the air line.

Do a search for "DIY on-board air".

 

And a lot of old gas engine trucks, and some Diesel, with air brakes had belt drive Bendix or Midland compressors hanging on them.
Some air cooled, some water cooled. Some have oil pumps and some use engine oil and a return line.
The normal air governor unloads the compressor when not pumping, but they always turn.

 

It sounds like the way to go. Why are the little compressors so popular?

 

I use the small York? brand upright A/C compressors fron old aircooled VW's. They don't take up much room, and have threaded mounting holes on the sides and bottom to make it easy to make a bracket.

I have run them with a tank and air pressure switch, and also without a tank for airing up tires on a 4x4 camper running on the beach.

 

hmmm. wonder if you can fit a magnetic clutch onto one of those old compressors... now I have to make a trip to the truck bone yard lol. you got my brain thinkin' damn you!