New gear: Kings’ new digital air compressor brings smart features to a tough classic

Let’s be honest … air compressors aren’t the most exciting bit of gear in your 4WD kit. But they are one of the most important. Whether you’re re-inflating after a beach run or adjusting tyre pressure for rocky tracks, having a reliable unit on hand is a no-brainer. And when it comes to compressors, simple is usually best.

Adventure Kings has just dropped a new version of its popular Thumper range: the Thumper Max Digital Air Compressor. It’s packing some smart tech upgrades while sticking to the affordability that made the original models so popular in Aussie 4WD circles.

On paper, it looks solid. A flow rate of 300L/min, twin 60mm pistons, and a digital pressure gauge accurate to within ±2 psi. You set your desired pressure, hit go, and it shuts off automatically when it gets there. No hovering, no guesswork.

Power-wise, it pulls 90 amps and runs off your 12V starter battery using alligator clips – standard stuff. It’s also got thermal cut-out protection, a 7.75-metre hose, and rugged construction that’s made to cop a bit of bush abuse.

Now, I haven’t personally tested this digital version yet, but I’ve run one of the earlier model Thumpers for over seven years. It finally gave up the ghost not that long ago after living full-time in the dog box on my ute for the better part of four years. That’s on me. No gear will last forever if you let it sit half in-and-out of the elements for that long. But it lasted longer than it should have, and that says a lot.

Look, there are air compressors out there with all sorts of bells and whistles. But sometimes it’s better to stick with something simple, effective, and affordable. This one doesn’t pretend to be anything too fancy, but if it’s anything like the older models, it’ll do the job well – so long as you give it a dry home.

Specs at a glance:

• Max airflow: 300L/min
• Max pressure: 150psi
• Digital gauge accuracy: ±2 psi
• Power: 1125W / 12V / 90A
• Weight: 9.2kg
• Dimensions: 36.5 x 23 x 15cm
• Hose length: 7.75m

At $249 plus postage, it’s positioned as a good value all-rounder. Time (and a bit of mud and dust) will tell how it stacks up against the tried-and-true Thumper name.

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