Tire deflator - which one to get

[Gullible]

Hi has anybody out there used or seen the Sidewinder PSV tire deflators?

I'm thinking of getting some tire deflators and was having a poke around the internet.

I have to confess I like the Shuarn but at $90 a set there a bit steep for me. The ARB deflator that removes the valve is a bit large and bulky although it is very quick to use.

The side winder comes in at $50, is there that much of a difference between the makes?

[buzz66]

You only get what you pay for.

Never Skimp on your hobby.

I ve had the Staun deflators for years, they never stick, come with a leather pouch, one of those lifetime purchases.
Bit like an Engel Fridge, or Maxi drive diff lock, they will last forever!

[mike 90 RR]

Staun x2

[dirtdawg]

i prefer the arb one lives in the back of the disco and is very quick and easy to use

[MickS]

Vaughan...go the Staun...and they are cheaper than that at TJM at Carlton where i got mine...

[Gullible]

Well, that kind of sums it up. Not the wide variation in opinions that I was expecting.

It looks likes like I'll have to go the Staun.

I must say I hate it when I do go cheep and then end up having to get the more expensive one when the cheep one brakes. :(

[land864]

I use the ARB deflator.

It's relatively quick and you can deflate to whatever pressure you want.

I also use it just to check tyre pressures now and then , bikes , wheelbarrow etc.


I'm not sure but can you adust the Stauns for different pressures?

[MickS]

I'm not sure but can you adust the Stauns for different pressures?

Yes, they come pre-set at 18 or 20 psi from memory...screw on all 4 .... job done in about a minute or so. When airing up, I just use the pressure gauge from my tyre repair kit once re-inflated. But those things are cheap as chips from any two dollar shop or supercheap.

[Yorkie]

must admit i like the stauns but setting them to your preferred pressure can be tricky. using your spare tyre you drop to pressure required, then screw on each staun and adjust to the same pressure, by the time i have done all four the first one is at disired pressure and the forth is about 4psi lower. :mad:
not used the arb one but the ability to go any pressure easily certainly sounds more convienient.
cheers
yorkie :)

[MickS]

Confused now BB?? :Rolling:

[disco_mitch]

i have both cant tell you the last time i used the stauns i always use the ez deflator

[Basil135]

must admit i like the stauns but setting them to your preferred pressure can be tricky. using your spare tyre you drop to pressure required, then screw on each staun and adjust to the same pressure, by the time i have done all four the first one is at disired pressure and the forth is about 4psi lower. :mad:
not used the arb one but the ability to go any pressure easily certainly sounds more convienient.
cheers
yorkie :)


I set mine at the servo using their idiot proof air pump. I just checked the pressure in the spare tyre after setting each Staun to make sure that they were all fairly close to each other.

Cant vouch for the others, as I have never used them. But like you, I did a fair amount of research prior to forking over my hard-earned cash (and buying flowers) and decieded that the Stauns had the better reputation.

[MickS]

Just rang ARB at St Peters...$67 for the E-Z and will discount to 4WD club members (LROC)...might grab one to see how it compares...

[disco_mitch]

Just rang ARB at St Peters...$67 for the E-Z and will discount to 4WD club members...might grab one to see how it compares...

the reason i like the easy is i go beach depending which one and what its like i will go beetween 12 and 16psi than if i go bush once again depending if its dirt roads or crazy stuff i go beetween 10 and 20 so the ez gives the option to range

[IceFyre]

ARB EZ Deflator - Quick, accurate, variable.
Stauns - PITA to set and maintain the exact setting, one setting unless you reset them.

I had Stauns, gave them away.

[weeds]

i have only used stauns so cannot comment on the other types

i have two set at 18 and the other two set at 25, i have not had the need to use any other pressures so it works for me.......

[spudboy]

I tested my Stauns, straight out of the packet, and put them on all 4 tyres. They were all within 1 PSI when deflated (17 or 18 PSI), which I thought was accurate enough.

[loanrangie]

i prefer the arb one lives in the back of the disco and is very quick and easy to use

I have an ARB, works great, very easy to use.

[gone bush]

Have used both the stauns and the EZ deflator. The stauns were fine but the deflator is much more versatile and thus much better value for money. Cheers JP

[**Discovery300Tdi**]

ARB EZ Deflator all the way for me, great little unit, very precise and easy to use.

cheers simon

[INter674]

Staun are next to useless...sorry but we have had 2 sets and they are inaccurate to say the least, frequently resulting in tyre pressures going too low tyres and coming off the bead. So you need to check them regularly including when they are working - which is time consuming and sort of defeats the auto - purpose really.

The ARB valve removing unit is fast to operate and accurate too and you can read the pressure as you go thereby ensuring it is what you want every time - though I heard some of the early units had a problem with the sliding bit sealing properly.....hum

[clean32]

i have a match and a gauge from the 2$ shop. i am usually not the last to finish, buy the time every one else has mucked about unpacking there kit then swearing at it etc etc. beside its supposed to be a good time, so slow down its not a race.

[weeds]

i have a match and a gauge from the 2$ shop. i am usually not the last to finish, buy the time every one else has mucked about unpacking there kit then swearing at it etc etc. beside its supposed to be a good time, so slow down its not a race.

yes there is always lots of chat on how fast does your compressor re-inflate your tyres........time is normally not an issue for me when i get the time off to go 4 wheeling

re: staun......cannot fault my set

[djam1]

I have Stauns and a Ferret I find the Ferret to be a better device

Black Range Offroad (http://www.blackrangeoffroad.com.au/ferret.html)

[klappers]

stauns.. work good and stuff. Just bought my second set the other day.. Lost the first ones! DOH!

[953]

i have both cant tell you the last time i used the stauns i always use the ez deflator

X2,
I have 2 sets of staun if anyone wants to make an offer.
Cheers Dean.

[dmdigital]

ARB EZ-deflaitor is definitely the way to go. I've used Staun and a couple of others and nothing compares to the ARB. It is bulky and a little on the cheap side construction wise, but is definitely the easiest and quickest to use.

[waz]

I have a clip-on tyre fitting with a male nitto($1) and a gauge($10). The clip-on does both deflating and inflating.

W

[INter674]

"Staun" is German for "surprise result"

[rovercare]

You only get what you pay for.

Never Skimp on your hobby.

I ve had the Staun deflators for years, they never stick, come with a leather pouch, one of those lifetime purchases.
Bit like an Engel Fridge, or Maxi drive diff lock, they will last forever!

Only one I've NEVER had any trouble with is either of my Engels:D

Stauns stick, I used to carry a can of CO contact cleaner, to get rid of any oxidisation, but now I just wack them on methodically and remove the same way, I give up with waiting for them to stop as they stick, just time it;)

[AndyG]

Hi,
Currently my tyre deflator is a 3 inch nail found on the Birdsville track by the side of the road. Thinking of upgrading, although it works quite well and has not worn out .:D

Considerations, I use Tyre Dog TMPS permanently fitted when touring, i dont really like the idea of removing the valve if i understand how ARB works?

Back in 2009 it appeared to be a Staun vs ARB battle of opinions, has anything changed?

[BMKal]

Aren't the Tyre Dog sensors a replacement for the valve caps - in which case you have to remove them to deflate the tyres no matter which type of deflator you use (even your three inch nail). ;)

Deflating the tyre by removing the valve centre (as with the ARB) is much more efficient and quicker than using a nail.

I use an ARB deflator - it lives in the case with my air compressor.

The Stauns are very good too (my young bloke has a set). Well made and robust and come in a good storage pouch as others have said on here. Only issue with them is that they are really only suitable for one pre-set pressure. You can change the pre-set pressure on them, but it's a pain. Best option with the Stauns if you want to have a couple of different pressures that you deflate to - set two of the Stauns at each of the different pressures and mark them so that you know the difference. When using them, only deflate two wheels at a time using the deflators set at the pressure you want.

I also have a TPMS on mine - but the sensors are not on the valves, so I don't have to remove anything but the valve cap. My sensors are inside the wheel rim, strapped to the centre of the rim itself, so not visible from outside and unable to be nicked or tampered with. System purchased from Landybitz on here and works well for me. :D

[PhilipA]

I had a Staun many years ago when I changed to the ARB type. I loaned it to my boss on Blacksmiths one day and never got it back. Typical.

I find the ARB type to be quicker, particularly when you have 6 tyres for your camper trailer as well as the car.
I have had no problem with mine except that sometimes the O ring does not stop the outer screw from blowing out the top. You just have to be careful when you undo the valve core and then pull up the outer piece.

The other potential problem is if you think you have screwed the valve core back in and you haven't and it propels itself out into the sand. Good luck finding it , so carry a couple of extra valve cores. I haven't done it but loaned my deflator to another who did. On second thought I think it happened after he had unscrewed the core then pulled up too hard on the centre, and it popped out.

[AndyG]

Do the Staun live in the valve stem or only during the deflation process, that was my concern in relation to the TPMS.

The ARB approach, lends itself to introducing grit into the value and or losing the guts of the valve ?

I supposing i am looking for a solution that keeps the valve assembly intact, oh like a 3" nail. :) With a pressure gauge attached.

[PhilipA]

The ARB approach, lends itself to introducing grit into the value and or losing the guts of the valve ?


NO
The valve core stays in the ARB unless you are a Klutz.

Never had a problem and have used it dozens if not scores of times.

Only other issue is if in heat of moment you don't tighten the core enough and it will leak. I did this once only and quickly rectified it. You have to be careful to not use brute force on the core to tighten it or you could have trouble , but for a normally intelligent person, it is not a problem.
Regards Philip A

[Jeff]

I use this:

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/ (http://s1336.photobucket.com/user/Jeff_8/media/schradervalvecap01_zps8bd6dd05.jpg.html)

and a tyre gauge. Yes I'm cheap, but not the slowest at letting the tyres down.

Jeff

:rocket:

[Slunnie]

I use the stauns which bleed the tyres down at the same time, its just fast. I then finalise the pressures using a race car pressure gauge that bleeds the air off when you press a button until they are down to whatever pressure the day needs. Each product and system has its merits - I'm sure you'll look at one of them and just like it.

[Red90]

I've used the ARB one for years. Works great Done in a couple of minutes. Choose the right pressure for the conditions.

[Loubrey]

I've got both as well and the ARB type (Mean Green or some obscure brand - free with a non-related purchase) is only a fraction slower than the Staun deflators with the added benefit to stop at whatever pressure you like..

On the beach I use the Stauns (about 18 Psi) and in the hills I use the Green thing, because I look at the terrain and pick a pressure I guess might be best.

The ARB arrangement now costs about $80, so you're not far off the price of the Stauns in any case...

Used the nail and gauge method for years before I had money to spent on frivolous toys! :D

Cheers,

Lou

[komaterpillar]

Bought an ARB ezdeflator couple if weeks ago, was only 45 bucks, had stauns before that, the arb job ****s all over the stauns.

[Naviguesser]

Got cheapy version of the ARB thrown in from the 4wd Supercentre when I bought my awning.

Works well and is accurate (checked against my motorsport gauge).
Quick and easy to any pressure you like.

[Loubrey]

Bought an ARB ezdeflator couple if weeks ago, was only 45 bucks, had stauns before that, the arb job ****s all over the stauns.

Good price! Even Fleabay lists them between $67 and $73...

Cheers,

Lou

[d2dave]

I use this:

http://i1336.photobucket.com/albums/o646/Jeff_8/schradervalvecap01_zps8bd6dd05.jpg (http://s1336.photobucket.com/user/Jeff_8/media/schradervalvecap01_zps8bd6dd05.jpg.html)

and a tyre gauge. Yes I'm cheap, but not the slowest at letting the tyres down.

Jeff

:rocket:

This is my method but I have on a couple of occasions let out a bit too much and then had to pull out the compressor.:mad:

SWMBO asked me what I want for Christmas. This thread has solved the problem of what, I now just have the dilemma of which one.

[kogvos]

I have a Ferret tyre deflator which I like a lot. Simple, easy to count down as you deflate and no losing valves. I also have a Currie which is basically the ARB EZ for people like me who think they're a bit different but I never use it. The Ferret is what I always grab.

[Tombie]

These are a great unit, very precise..

Tyre Deflator 10-20 - 2. 4x4 Accessories - Tyre Deflators, Gauges and Accessories - 4wd Recovery Gear | 4wd Accessories | 4wd Equipment and Camping Gear Australia | Axe and Shovel Holder | Combo Shovel | Camping Lights | Tyre Deflators | Versa-Lite | (http://www.4x4equip.com.au/4wd-camping/2.+4x4+Accessories/Tyre+Deflators%2C+Gauges+and+Accessories/IDH-40-1)

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2014/12/197.jpg

[Tombie]

Having said that, I run 2 sets of Stauns.. one at 16psi the other at 22psi.

I often fit them and then drive off as theyre deflating (not recommended as you can lose them if not careful) and then next stop just take them off and put them away...

[harro]

Hi has anybody out there used or seen the Sidewinder PSV tire deflators?

I'm thinking of getting some tire deflators and was having a poke around the internet.

I have to confess I like the Shuarn but at $90 a set there a bit steep for me. The ARB deflator that removes the valve is a bit large and bulky although it is very quick to use.

The side winder comes in at $50, is there that much of a difference between the makes?

There are cheap copies of the ARB deflator on ebay for around $25 delivered.
I have had one for about 4 years, works great and still in good nick.
The gauge is pretty accurate too.

Probably all made in the same factory...........

[Tombie]

Probably not actually!!!!
And if caught coming in they are now confiscated.

[harro]

Probably not actually!!!!
And if caught coming in they are now confiscated.


Thanks for that.
I didn't realise they had a patent on it.
Oh well, I am not the first person to buy a cheap copy of something illegal.

Paul.

[Tombie]

There was a huge legal action taken by Staun a few years ago.

ARB I think are doing/done similar with Lightforce and their clone LED lights.

[rangieman]

I use a ARB ezideflator have done for 6 years , It suits my style and up against ya stauns its quicker and better in my humble opinion:p

[Gary S11]

The quickest I've found so far is the .22

[Loubrey]

Probably not actually!!!!
And if caught coming in they are now confiscated.

Tombie,

Not as clear cut as you would imagine...

Opposite Lock (http://www.oppositelock.com.au/index.php?action=sitesearch&match=1&index%5B%5D=prodcat_products&q=deflator)

Branded for Opposite Lock and according to them not in breach of any patent.

Cheers,

Lou

[Red90]

The quickest I've found so far is the .22

The quickest is to add a second valve stem with no valve in it. That is what the big boys do.

[PhilipA]

Great idea but illegal except offroad.
I can just see an old bloke like me at the fuel station "Now which one was it the left or right . More trouble if they are 180degrees apart"
Regards Philip A

[AndyG]

I'm thinking of sticking with the 3'' nail after all this, after all how many times do you deflate in a day & what's the great rush.:)

[harro]

I'm thinking of sticking with the 3'' nail after all this, after all how many times do you deflate in a day & what's the great rush.:)

Mate when it's 40+ degrees and your kneeling there in the dust the quicker you can get the job done the better.

Up here heading out west I can do this daily or even a couple of times a day.
Any time we do some prolonged dirt/gravel driving I always knock a quick 10psi out of the tyres, and then of course there is sand, full offroad etc.

Horses for courses but in our case the quicker the better;).

[Tombie]

Tombie,

Not as clear cut as you would imagine...

Opposite Lock (http://www.oppositelock.com.au/index.php?action=sitesearch&match=1&index%5B%5D=prodcat_products&q=deflator)

Branded for Opposite Lock and according to them not in breach of any patent.

Cheers,

Lou


The deflator from ARB isn't the item in question, ARB just have a common supply and don't hold patent on that unit.

ARBs recent legal win was their LED lights vs LightFarce

Curry style deflator a are branded for all manner of sellers.

[Loubrey]

Probably not actually!!!!
And if caught coming in they are now confiscated.

Just saying, your answer to Harro's post about cheaper versions of the ARB type deflator yesterday did intone that buying it from any other supplier than ARB would be breaking the law in some way...

[Tombie]

Just saying, your answer to Harro's post about cheaper versions of the ARB type deflator yesterday did intone that buying it from any other supplier than ARB would be breaking the law in some way...


I never posted about the ARB deflator...

Only the Staun unit :)

[Tombie]

There was a huge legal action taken by Staun a few years ago.

ARB I think are doing/done similar with Lightforce and their clone LED lights.


In fact here's the post :) hence my confusion!

Cheap Chinese knock offs of Stauns were being confiscated by customs if detected.

[Loubrey]

Two sub threads running in parallel...

Saw now you were replying to the Staun one and not the EZY one - apologies offered! :D

Cheers,

Lou

[Tombie]

No need, you had me puzzled for a while :)

[AndyG]

Oops

[AndyG]

These are a great unit, very precise..

Tyre Deflator 10-20 - 2. 4x4 Accessories - Tyre Deflators, Gauges and Accessories - 4wd Recovery Gear | 4wd Accessories | 4wd Equipment and Camping Gear Australia | Axe and Shovel Holder | Combo Shovel | Camping Lights | Tyre Deflators | Versa-Lite | (http://www.4x4equip.com.au/4wd-camping/2.+4x4+Accessories/Tyre+Deflators%2C+Gauges+and+Accessories/IDH-40-1)

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2014/12/197.jpg

The winner for me i think,
Bought the 18-28 version

[d2dave]

The winner for me i think,
Bought the 18-28 version
Are these accurate? If so I think this is what I will get.

[Red90]

Great idea but illegal except offroad.
I can just see an old bloke like me at the fuel station "Now which one was it the left or right . More trouble if they are 180degrees apart"
Regards Philip A

You put a different cap on the open one. Very common with people that have large tires. Deflating 54" tires through a normal deflator takes forever. There is no point for anybody with tires that are road legal in Australia....

[460cixy]

Chinese stuans here and no problems so far. And if there a couple of pound out in accuracy its no big drama its not like you are doing 110 at 18psi

[Loubrey]

I like those "Mil-Spec Multi Choice Deflators" (their actual proper name...) a lot, but I just can't justify the $110 considering I've already got Stauns and the Opposite Lock EZY thingy...

Cheers,

Lou

[d2dave]

These are a great unit, very precise..

Tyre Deflator 10-20 - 2. 4x4 Accessories - Tyre Deflators, Gauges and Accessories - 4wd Recovery Gear | 4wd Accessories | 4wd Equipment and Camping Gear Australia | Axe and Shovel Holder | Combo Shovel | Camping Lights | Tyre Deflators | Versa-Lite | (http://www.4x4equip.com.au/4wd-camping/2.+4x4+Accessories/Tyre+Deflators%2C+Gauges+and+Accessories/IDH-40-1)

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2014/12/197.jpg

My dilemma of which deflator is now solved. Found two of the above under the Christmas tree yesterday.:)

[Bushie]

I've had an ARB EZ deflator for a few years (easy to use) and this thread has just reminded me to go look for it.
Last time I was out I was relegated to using a bit of stick and the gauge :mad: - not the best method.


Martyn