Sherpa 4x4 BIG AIR 12V Compressor – 283 L/min
Description
The Sherpa 4x4 BIG AIR 12V Air Compressor is a heavy-duty, high-flow compressor designed for fast tyre inflation, onboard air systems and demanding 4WD use. Delivering up to 283 L/min (10 CFM) and maintaining strong airflow as pressure increases, BIG AIR is well suited to 4WDs, trucks, touring vehicles and remote applications.
With a 100% duty cycle at 80 PSI, automatic pressure control, integrated air reservoir and 120 PSI safety relief valve, BIG AIR can be used as a portable compressor or incorporated into a suitably designed permanent onboard-air system.
- 283 L/min / 10 CFM rated airflow
- 7.9 CFM at 40 PSI
- 5.2 CFM at 80 PSI
- 100% duty cycle at 80 PSI
- Heavy-duty 12V electric motor
- Automatic 60 PSI cut-in / 90 PSI cut-out
- Integrated pressure switch and air reservoir
- 120 PSI safety relief valve
- Oil-free compressor design
- Suitable for portable or permanent onboard-air installations
- 3m power leads with alligator clips
- 6.5m PU airline included
- 12 month warranty
Sherpa 4x4 BIG AIR Heavy Duty 12V Air Compressor
High-Flow Air for 4WDs, Trucks & Touring
The Sherpa BIG AIR is designed for applications where high airflow and extended operating capability are important. Its large 12V motor and high-capacity compressor head provide strong performance for tyre inflation and compatible onboard-air systems.
It is particularly well suited to larger 4WD and truck tyres where smaller portable compressors can take significantly longer to reach the required pressure.
Strong Airflow Under Pressure
Compressor performance changes as system pressure increases, so airflow at working pressure is an important consideration when comparing compressors.
BIG AIR delivers the following stated performance:
- 10 CFM at 20 PSI
- 8.9 CFM at 30 PSI
- 7.9 CFM at 40 PSI
- 7.2 CFM at 50 PSI
- 6.6 CFM at 60 PSI
- 6.0 CFM at 70 PSI
- 5.2 CFM at 80 PSI
This gives BIG AIR useful airflow across the pressure range commonly encountered when inflating 4WD and truck tyres.
100% Duty Cycle at 80 PSI
The compressor is rated for a 100% duty cycle at 80 PSI, making it suitable for extended operation within its specified limits.
An integrated cooling fan helps move air across the motor assembly during operation.
Automatic Pressure Control
BIG AIR incorporates an integrated pressure switch and air reservoir.
The compressor automatically switches on at approximately 60 PSI and switches off at approximately 90 PSI. This makes the unit suitable for connection to a compatible onboard-air system or external receiver tank.
A 120 PSI safety relief valve provides additional pressure protection.
Portable or Permanently Installed
For portable use, BIG AIR is supplied with a carry handle, protective outer frame and 3m power leads with alligator clips.
The compressor can also be incorporated into a permanent onboard-air installation. Where permanently mounted, the electrical system should use correctly sized high-current cable, terminals, circuit protection and secure mounting suitable for the vehicle and installation.
Oil-Free Compressor Design
The oil-free compressor design eliminates routine compressor oil changes and provides greater flexibility when selecting a mounting location.
The unit has an IP54 ingress rating. Permanent installations should therefore be positioned in a sheltered location protected from direct high-pressure water spray, immersion and excessive exposure to the elements.
Onboard Air Applications
BIG AIR can be connected to a suitable external air receiver tank where stored compressed air is required.
Typical applications include:
- 4WD tyre inflation
- Truck tyre inflation
- Air locker systems
- Air horns
- Camping and touring equipment
- General compressed-air duties
- Compatible pneumatic tools with suitable air requirements
When operating pneumatic tools, compare the tool's required airflow and pressure with the compressor performance data below.
Air Inlet Filtration
An accessible inlet air filter helps reduce dust and debris entering the compressor.
Inspect and clean the filter regularly, particularly after use in dusty off-road environments, and replace it when required.
See Sherpa BIG AIR in Action
Independent Review
Read the 4X4 Australia Sherpa BIG AIR compressor review
Optional Air Tanks & Accessories
BIG AIR can be combined with a suitable external receiver tank and compatible onboard-air accessories.
Sherpa BIG AIR Specifications
| Specification | Sherpa BIG AIR SAC12VHD |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 12V DC |
| Rated Airflow | 283 L/min / 10 CFM |
| Recommended Operating Range | 0–90 PSI |
| Pressure Switch | Cut-in at 60 PSI / Cut-out at 90 PSI |
| Safety Relief Valve | 120 PSI |
| Maximum System Pressure | 120 PSI |
| Maximum Current Draw | 100A |
| Recommended Fuse | 120A |
| Solenoid Rating | 200A |
| Duty Cycle | 100% at 80 PSI |
| Compressor Type | Oil-free |
| Ingress Rating | IP54 |
| Power Leads | 3m with alligator clips |
| Air Line | 6.5m PU airline |
| Weight | 13.5kg |
| Dimensions | 383 × 140 × 275mm |
| Warranty | 12 months |
12V Performance Data
| Pressure | Current | Air Flow |
|---|---|---|
| 20 PSI | 85A | 10 CFM |
| 30 PSI | 91A | 8.9 CFM |
| 40 PSI | 94A | 7.9 CFM |
| 50 PSI | 97A | 7.2 CFM |
| 60 PSI | 98A | 6.6 CFM |
| 70 PSI | 96A | 6.0 CFM |
| 80 PSI | 94A | 5.2 CFM |
High-Current Electrical Requirements
BIG AIR can draw up to approximately 100A. The battery, charging system, electrical cable, connections and circuit protection must all be suitable for this level of current.
For permanent installations, use appropriately sized high-current cable and terminals and follow the Sherpa installation instructions. Poor connections or undersized wiring can cause excessive voltage drop, heat and reduced compressor performance.