A PTO-driven air compressor uses the power take-off of a vehicle to serve a variety of pneumatic applications.
These air compressors are usually located under your vehicle’s deck, which is both practical and esthetically pleasant.
In this article, we will discuss the nitty-gritty details of the PTO-driven air compressor, including its pros and critical things to consider before installing it.
What is a PTO-driven air compressor?
A PTO-driven air compressor works by converting the power take-off (PTO) of the vehicle to operate the compressor pump. However, not all vehicles have a PTO system as this sophisticated system is mostly found in trucks and tractors. [1]
These systems harness the energy generated by the vehicle’s engine, eliminating the need for fuel or electricity. Moreover, the portability of the PTO-driven air compressor for service trucks allows you to use it at different locations.
What are the components of a PTO-driven air compressor?
A typical PTO-driven air compressor consists of the following components:
- A PTO system
- Hydraulic pump
- Air/oil separator tank
- Control box
- Cooling and heating systems
The following graph demonstrates the location of each component:
Pros of PTO-driven air compressors
Compared to above-deck air compressors, a PTO-driven air compressor offers several advantages, including:
Saves you space
Because a PTO-drive air compressor gets mounted under the deck, it frees up cargo space. This is very beneficial for users engaged in heavy-duty pneumatic applications of the air compressor.
With the air compressor under the deck, you can simply forget it’s there until you need it. That’s a very handy tool to have.
The best part is that PTO-driven air compressors are quite easy to install. [2]
Provides high CFM
Airflow measured by cubic feet per minute (CFM) is a major parameter to consider when buying an air compressor. The higher the CFM, the more potent the air compressor.
Luckily, PTO-driven air compressors are able to deliver up to 200 CFM. This is sufficient for the majority of air compressor uses. In industrial settings, this number can shoot up to 1000 CFM.
Related – Check out our air compressor CFM calculator.
Allows for continuous operation
Unlike standalone compressors that run on fuel or electricity, a PTO drive air compressor can operate continuously as long as the vehicle’s engine is running. [3]
If you intend to use the compressor for prolonged periods of time (e.g., sandblasting, air drills) in remote locations, a PTO-driven air compressor may be ideal for you.
Saves you fuel money
Since PTO-driven air compressors rely on the mechanical power generated by the vehicle’s engine, they are more efficient compared to gas air compressors or electric air compressors.
However, this will most likely increase the fuel consumption of your truck. To objectively assess the cost of running a PTO-driven air compressor, you need to observe the rate of fuel consumption when the compressor is running versus when it’s turned off.
If you have a standalone air compressor and want to estimate its energy consumption, use our calculator by clicking here.
Reduces the cost of maintenance
Gasoline and diesel air compressors have an integrated engine that generates power for the compressor pump. The transformation of the potential power to mechanical energy to run the pistons and compress the air.
Despite the robustness of these machines, you still have to deal with engine maintenance. Depending on the power grade and age of the compressor, you might spend thousands of dollars on maintenance.
The good news is that a PTO-driven air compressor has no engine. It completely relies on the power produced by the vehicle’s engine. Therefore, you only have to worry about the compressor pump, which tends to require infrequent repairs.
Cons of PTO-driven air compressors
Depends on the vehicle’s engine
The main advantage of PTO-driven air compressors can also be a disadvantage. Relying solely on the vehicle’s engine for power can result in downtime for the compressor when the engine requires maintenance.
Limits the mobility of the vehicle
Despite the portability of PTO-driven air compressors, it limits the mobility of the vehicle when running. Therefore, remaining mobile while running the air compressor is not possible.
May produce a lot of noise
Turning on a PTO-driven compressor can generate noise and vibrations within the vehicle’s cabin, which may be uncomfortable for the driver and passengers. Noise insulation may be required to mitigate this issue.
Learn some practical tips to reduce the noise of air compressors by clicking here.
Vehicles compatible with PTO-driven air compressors
As mentioned above, PTO-driven air compressors are not compatible with all trucks. The majority of manufacturers focus on a few specific models equipped with a power take-off system and a compatible drivetrain.
Here are a few vehicles compatible with PTO-driven air compressors:
Ford
Ford diesel trucks often come equipped with PTO provisions, making them suitable with PTO-driven air compressors.
Models ranging from the Ford F-250 diesel to the F-600 are all compatible.
Chevrolet
Models like the Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD trucks also offer PTO options.
Ram
Ram’s heavy-duty trucks, such as the Ram 2500 and Ram 3500, may also be compatible with PTO systems.
Factors to consider before buying a PTO-driven air compressor
During your hunt for a PTO-driven air compressor, the process can be overwhelming. You will undoubtedly come across fancy branding phrases and misleading claims. In reality, not all PTO-driven air compressors are created equal.
Here are some key factors to consider before buying a PTO air compressor:
The need to modify existing parts of the vehicle
While sophisticated PTO systems are compatible with existing parts of the transmission system, some brands require heavy modification of the transfer case to fit the PTO. Modifying the original design can void the warranty on the transfer case.
Weight of the PTO air compressor
This one is straightforward. A heavy PTO air compressor will boost fuel consumption and increase the GVW of your truck. The average weight of PTO air compressors is about 250 pounds.
This number might be significantly higher with more powerful compressed systems. However, the relationship between the weight and the performance of the PTO compressor is not always linear.
Therefore, you should always opt for light PTO air compressors that produce 15% more CFM than what you need.
Space between the truck and ground (i.e., ground clearance)
Some PTO systems come with a poor design as they take up a large space between the lower part of the truck and the ground. This is referred to as ground clearance.
Note that poor ground clearance can limit the mobility of the truck, especially in difficult terrains.
PTO-driven air compressor price
The average price of a PTO-driven air compressor varies significantly depending on several factors, including the brand, capacity, safety features, and whether it’s new or used.
Here are some general estimations:
Small to medium PTO compressors – PTO-driven air compressors with lower capacity (e.g., 10 to 30 CFM) typically cost between $1,000 to $3,000 for new units. Used compressors in this category might be available for less.
Medium to high PTO compressors – Higher capacity PTO compressors (e.g., 30 to 100+ CFM) or those with additional features, such as integrated air tanks or advanced controls, can range anything from $3,000 to $10,000.
Industrial-grade PTO compressors – Heavy-duty PTO-driven air compressors designed for industrial or heavy commercial use cost up to $20,000. These compressors often come with advanced features and can withstand demanding applications.
Takeaway message
A PTO-driven air compressor is an innovative solution that equips trucks and tractors with compressed air to mediate a variety of pneumatic applications. Learning about these systems allows you to make an informed decision before purchasing a PTO air compressor.
We hope that this guide will help you choose the right PTO-driven air compressor for your vehicle.
If you have any specific questions about a PTO air compressor model, please feel free to share them in the comment section below.
