why does the motor have to be running
64802
to keep the voltage at 13 volts or higher. operating at lower voltage heats up the motor
64803
This thing is a real compressor with heavy gauge wires and it draws quite a bit of amperage.
64804
Keeping your engine running keeps the system voltage at 14vdc or above. With your engine off the battery voltage is 12.8vdc on a good battery. Ohms law states volts x amps =watts so as the voltage drops the amp load goes up causing more heat generation and stresses the wiring to the compressor. The compressor will also pump faster and not kill the battery. It's always better to run the engine unless the job is extremely small and low pressure.
64805
A running engine provides proper voltage and no increase in amp draw. A non running engine provides less than 13.8 volts (that the compressor runs best at). Low voltage causes high amp draw. This will shorten the compressor life. Mine is ten years old. Still running like a champ.
64806
So you don't drain your batteries! Full tires wont mean jack if you can't start your motor! The stock jeep battery /alternator setup can power this pump with no problem but if you want to start the motor later you should keep the motor running while using the pump.
1638410
The boat has to be physically sitting in water. It completes a circuit. I tested it out by putting it in the bathtub with water in it. Didn't work sitting on the table, but once in the top the motors ran.
225425
I think that you can use it when the engine is running. I always use it with the engine off and the key turned to the run position.
266672
I just turn the unit on before connecting to the tire - that way it's not under a load when you turn it on. Vehicle does not need to be running.
832920
yes, make sure you vent from side and back. It is important so the motor does not burn out.
798702
If you want it to run, you need to plug it in. Gone through two of them. Not level. Kind of cheap.
1978442
You need a certain amount of mechanical ability but it can be done. The motor works just fine.
722578
Probably a better question for the manufacturer, but I believe it's because the lower priced unit is not designed for continuous operation. Presumably the motor has to cool off.
54364
Haven't tried it but I want to do the same. I feel like the motor is plenty powerful but they don't recommend running continuously for more than a minute.
1487787
The motor is AC. I had to add a long cord to enable mounting on a ceiling. The problem with most battery operated motors is that they don't have enough power to handle more than a few ounces.
471571
The pump has to be running to use it . Once the pump is off..it goes flat, but pumps back up in seconds when pump is on.
1599517
No, it does not need to be running. I see there are several answers all look correct.
383974
This is a completely enclosed electric motor. I do not foresee any motor maintenance.Thanks
312064
No the vehicle does not need to be running. This unit can be wired to a charged 12V battery. The battery wired to the unit provides the power.
873171
This is a Capacitor start motor. You can do it, but you will need to move the capacitor to each line.
1738965
Could be the connection between the motor and screw drive. Check instillation manuel for picture of connection.
424027
This is a quote from the manual: "DO NOT RUN THE PUMP DRY. The pump depends on water for cooling and lubrication. Operating the pump without water may cause the motor to overheat or cause damage to parts of the pump. It may also shorten the life of your pump."