
Petrol powered air compressors use petrol for power and tend to be more affordable. They are often the first choice for heavy-duty works, due to their exceptional performance, control of power output and minimal fuel consumption. This is especially important for users who are trying to conserve the amount of fuel they’re using, especially for high-power jobs.
Petrol air compressors are very flexible as they can be seamlessly calibrated to match the needs of your task, so long as you choose a compressor that matches the machine requiring the highest PSI or CFM.
All Pilot Air petrol powered air compressors are powered by Honda engines, which are universally acknowledged as the best in terms of quality and reliability.
“Using the right fuel keeps your compressor reliable, efficient, and ready for tough Australian conditions.”

Which kind of petrol should I use?
The preferred fuel for use in petrol powered air compressors is unleaded 91, which is the most common grade of fuel for passenger vehicles in Australia. It is highly refined with an octane of 91 RON (Research Octane Number). However, it is important that any unleaded 91 petrol that you use has no more than 10% ethanol (E10).
If your petrol powered air compressor is only used intermittently, it is important that you only use petrol that has been treated with fuel stabiliser at the time of the fuel purchase.
Key Takeaways
Correct Fuel Matters
Use unleaded 91 with max 10% ethanol (E10) for petrol-powered compressors.
Engine Reliability
Honda engines are selected for proven durability in Australian environments.
Fuel Storage Tips
Keep petrol in sealed, approved containers and use stabiliser if stored longer than a month.
Regular Maintenance
Fresh fuel, clean filters, and proper draining extend compressor life.

How should petrol be stored?
When storing your petrol, it is vital that you only use clean, sealed, approved fuel containers designed specifically for the carrying and storing of petrol. If you are storing petrol in a steel container (i.e. jerry can), you must ensure that there is no corrosion on the inside of the container.
If you are likely to store the petrol for more than one month, add Honda fuel stabiliser to your fresh petrol. Untreated petrol will start to deteriorate after as little as one month, and cannot be reconstituted or reinvigorated with fuel stabiliser. As such, it is important to add the fuel stabiliser when the petrol is fresh.
When petrol is not being used, store in a cool place that is well ventilated and away from direct sunlight.

Maintenance of your petrol powered product
In order to keep your system working as efficiently as possible, it is vital that you ensure proper maintenance.
Before using your machine, fill the tank with fresh fuel, check the engine oil level is correct and clean the air filter. When you have finished using your machine it is important to turn the fuel tap off. Before storing your system, drain the petrol from the carburettor and fuel tank.

Extensive product range
Our extensive range of Australian made compressed air products offers a solution for all your needs, including compressed air piping.
From air compressors through to compressed air storage, treatment and distribution, we’ve got you covered. And if none of our standard compressed air products are suitable, we offer custom-built solutions to meet your individual requirements.
Our product range and large stock levels, combined with our comprehensive spare parts inventory, ensure we maintain your compressed air system’s reliability and efficiency while reducing whole-of-life operating costs.
Learn more about our compressed air products.
“Pilot Air petrol-powered compressors with Honda engines are trusted by Sydney industries for durability and performance.”