For the past 15 years, I have been operating as a contractor driving over 2500 trucks equipped with a welder for residential and commercial projects such as doors, stairs, gates, and railings. Initially, I struggled with the limited space in my truck bed, so I decided to mount my equipment on a skid in the truck instead of a small trailer. Recently, I faced issues with my compressor tank and had to invest in a new one, but now my Kohler motor is smoking and the pump is experiencing blow by. Considering a replacement for my truck-mounted compressor, I came across the VMAC air compressor but found the cost of $12,000 to be too high for my needs of 24cfm. However, I managed to find a great deal on eBay for a VMAC compressor and oil separator tank, although additional factory parts would still total $6,000. After researching, I discovered an affordable InPower throttle control with essential features for just a hundred dollars. To make the necessary modifications, I acquired a spare alternator bracket for my truck and am working on designing a bracket to mount the pump. The oil separator tank, despite some oil residue, appears to be in good condition and I am in the process of installing new filters and creating brackets. Stay tuned for updates on my progress.
Around 25-30 years ago, we made the switch from smaller trucks to larger models such as the Loadstar series IH and the Top Kick and Kodiak series GMs. Some were already utilizing Class 7 Pete's and KWs, with a few Western Stars and not many Freightliners in the mix. While some shops stuck with one-ton dually trucks, the demand for tools, air compressors, welders, and lube handling equipment increased. We even repurposed old gas service and underground electric trucks for mechanic use at the Utility. The use of lighter trucks and supporting equipment was truly remarkable.
For my next truck set-up, I'm considering installing a 302 air pac to decrease weight and free up additional space. My concern with using a vmac system is that, similar to a traditional PTO, it requires a significant amount of power to operate the compressor. This can be a downside for those looking to maximize efficiency and save on fuel costs.
AzIron mentioned plans to outfit their next truck with a 302 air pac to optimize space and reduce weight. They expressed reservations about using a vmac system due to the high motor output required for running a compressor. Despite the potential for increased engine wear, they are not overly concerned as they do not run the system for extended periods or frequently. AzIron inquired about the location of the person they were speaking with, mentioning they are situated off Carefree Hwy, north of Phoenix in Arizona.
I may have excavated your home in Phoenix.
AzIron of Phoenix mentioned that they may have worked on your home. Upon browsing your picture thread, they recognized some of the houses and mentioned that they have completed architectural iron work on similar projects during the final stages.
Answer: - Initially, the limited space in the truck bed was a challenge, leading to the decision to mount the equipment on a skid in the truck instead of using a small trailer. 2. What issues are you currently facing with your welding truck setup? - Currently, the Kohler motor is smoking, and the pump is experiencing blow by after having to replace the compressor tank.
Answer: - The VMAC air compressor was considered, but the cost of $12,000 was deemed too high for the required 24cfm. Instead, a good deal was found on eBay for a VMAC compressor and oil separator tank, with additional factory parts totaling $6,000.
Answer: - An affordable InPower throttle control with essential features was found for just a hundred dollars. Additionally, spare alternator bracket and designing a bracket for mounting the pump were acquired for modifications.
Answer: - The oil separator tank, despite some oil residue, is in good condition. New filters are being installed, and brackets are being created for the modifications. Stay tuned for updates on the progress.
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