Need recommendations for a portable jump start unit [Archive] - Chevelle Tech

: Need recommendations for a portable jump start unit


gigem
Jan 4th, 06, 2:28 PM
I had someone save my butt with one of these at a car show a few months ago when my battery was dying, and now I want to buy one with some Xmas money I got.

In addition to being able to jump start a car, I'd also like it to have an air compressor in it, as well as a power inverter to run 120 VAC stuff. A light would be nice, as well as some 12 VDC plugs.

Here are some on Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/gp/search/102-0640894-4755331?keywords=compressor&page=1&rh=n%3A15690151%2Cn%3A15706941%2Cn%3A15707061%2Ck% 3Acompressor&sort=-price&x=12&y=14) (I've got $95 to spend there). Anyone have one they like, or any recommendations?

Cameano
Jan 4th, 06, 3:39 PM
I had a couple when I had a bunch of vehicles for my old business. They were basic, only jumpstart and a 12vdc lighter socket, which it also charged through. IMO, those are going to be better for getting you out of a jam than one filled with gadgets. Reason is, how many times will other people come along, grab it to air up a tire, use the light, etc. and forget that it needs charging. Sure, you as the principal owner understand it needs charging, but others could care less. Those others include kids, spouses, friends, etc. ;)

theclencher
Jan 4th, 06, 7:15 PM
Call me old fashioned, but I'd rather put my money into a regular new battery and a good set of jumper cables. It's cheaper and the battery can be used elsewhere when you discover how little it gets used.

mild68ss
Jan 4th, 06, 7:46 PM
I have one from Menards. $40 or so. It works fine when I need it. (not often)
I did have to use it just recently, after I left the lights on at work. :clonk: Got a jump with cables.
imo I'd rather use a portable jumper then battery cables. I thought I charged the battery enough, then the next morning it was dead again. The portable worked out better then needing another car. Quicker too. I put it in the car just incase. Yep, needed it after work again.

The air compresser would be a plus too.

Oh yeah killed the six year battery. My new one is fine. ;)

jimmy
Jan 4th, 06, 7:55 PM
I recently bought one for the wife at Costco. It has everything you want, air compressor, light, etc. Very handy tool to carry in the trunk.

I believe it was $50.

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Jim Endrud

jet_tech
Jan 4th, 06, 8:52 PM
I recently bought one at my local parts supplier, it was made by AC Delco, very nice unit. It had air compressor, jumpstart, power inverter, was $120.00 . They also sell a couple of different versions at PEP BOYS for a little cheaper.

7t
Jan 6th, 06, 12:19 PM
i have one with everything but air com. like said before they very seldom get used.i have had mine about three yrs so far have used it twice just to keep food warm. it did power a tv at the track also. it is made by SHUMAKER i guess it works pretty good only good for 300 watts. they are kinda bulky to carry for something almost never used. set of jumper cables work just as good. almost never does a tire go flat before you realize its low. you can get a inverter for cig. lighter if you think that would be needed. i use an extra battery around the house if something is in need of a jump. old habits die hard