The difference between the airlite eco and AIRFORCE MK4 Linear Tyre Inflators?

What is a linear inflator?

Whether you choose a linear, dial or digital style handheld inflator is down to your personal requirements in terms of performance and style.

PCL’s linear tyre inflators display a pressure reading on a horizontal scale, with the indicator position determined by the contraction of a carefully calibrated and sensitive spring delivered by the pressure in a tyre or other vessel.

The life and accuracy of the gauge is dependent upon the spring’s accuracy, as well as the valve mechanism, with PCL’s market-leading AIRFORCE® MK4 being the number one in the world. PCL’s range also includes the economy airlite eco Tyre Inflator.

Read more about the benefits of PCL’s two-stage valve design

When deciding which linear inflator is suitable for you, there are a few factors to consider:

What application is each inflator suitable for?

The new airlite eco is constructed from glass filled nylon polymer, providing natural insulation for a warm, robust feel. This economy inflator has been designed for less demanding environments or occasional use, therefore is a cost-effective addition to general trade or an enthusiast tool kit.

The premium AIRFORCE^® MK4 with its aluminum die cast body, is more robust, hard-wearing and less prone to damage, therefore suitable for demanding tyre shop and garage environments. The range also features high pressure models up to 300 psi, ideal for commercial vehicles, industrial and aviation applications.

What warranty is offered?

The airlite eco comes with a standard 1-year warranty, while the AIRFORCE^® MK4 comes with a 2-year warranty. This warranty extension reflects the longevity of the MK4 within the most demanding environments.

What are the product options?

The airlite eco comes with a 0.4m hose and offers two options of tyre valve connectors; a twin hold on connector or a euro clip on connector.

If you require a longer hose, the AIRFORCE^® MK4 range features different hose lengths from 0.53m to 2.7m and a wide choice of tyre valve connectors including twin-hold on, single clip-on and twin clip-on connectors.

Do you require a calibration certificate?

If you require a calibration certificate, the AIRFORCE^® MK4 - which is accurate to EC Directive BS EN12645:2014 - is recommended.

What maintenance is required for the MK4 and airlite eco?

The AIRFORCE^® MK4 is generally used in demanding environments, therefore it is recommended that users oil the inflator regularly with a couple of drops of general air tool oil at least once a month depending on usage, or once a week in a garage workshop or an automotive tyre bay. The MK4 features an oil screw near the inlet – which makes this process quick and easy.

The airlite eco has been designed for light or occasional use, so no maintenance is required as long as you have clean dry air.

Over time the hose and tyre valve connector can naturally wear. The service life depends on several factors including the frequency of use and maintenance. It is important to inspect the hose and connector on your gauge for damage regularly and before use. If you need to replace the hose or connector, PCL offers a wide range of replacement hose assemblies.

Watch the video

In this video, Mickael and Garry explain the differences between the airlite eco and AIRFORCE® MK4 Tyre Inflator.