If you’ve ever worked on a construction site, road crew, or remote job where power tools need reliable air, chances are you’ve seen the Ingersoll Rand P185 tow-behind compressor. This rugged portable unit is one of the most popular rental and jobsite compressors in North America, offering dependable performance for powering jackhammers, sandblasters, and other pneumatic equipment.
In this guide, we’ll cover what makes the P185 special, key specs, its pros and cons, and alternatives worth considering if you’re in the market for a tow-behind compressor.
Quick Picks: Best Tow-Behind Compressors ($300+)
- Best Overall: Ingersoll Rand P185WIR Tow-Behind – Legendary reliability, ideal for contractors and rental fleets.
- Best Budget Alternative: Doosan C185 Portable Air Compressor – Solid performance with slightly lower cost of ownership.
- Best Premium: Kaeser M20 Mobile Air Compressor – German-engineered, ultra-efficient, and built for professional contractors.
Buyer’s Guide: Why Choose a Tow-Behind Compressor?
Tow-behind compressors like the Ingersoll Rand P185 are built for mobility and heavy-duty use. Unlike stationary shop compressors, these machines are self-contained with their own diesel engines, large air-end pumps, and fuel tanks, making them perfect for jobsites without electrical power.
Key Benefits
- Portability: Easily towed with a truck or work vehicle.
- High Airflow: Produces up to 185 CFM, enough for multiple tools at once.
- Rugged Build: Designed for outdoor work environments.
- Independent Power: Runs on diesel, no grid power required.
Common Uses
- Road construction and repair.
- Sandblasting and abrasive blasting.
- Concrete breaking and jackhammering.
- Remote industrial sites.
- Pipeline and utility work.
Ingersoll Rand P185 Tow-Behind Compressor: Key Specs
- Airflow: 185 CFM
- Operating Pressure: 100 PSI (adjustable)
- Engine: Diesel-powered (commonly John Deere or Kubota engines depending on year)
- Fuel Tank: ~27 gallons for a full day’s work
- Weight: ~2,000–2,500 lbs (towable by pickup)
- Noise Level: ~74 dBA @ 23 ft
Why the P185 is So Popular
- Rental Friendly: Easy to operate and maintain, widely available at equipment rental yards.
- Durability: Heavy-duty enclosure protects engine and pump in rough conditions.
- Serviceability: Easy-access panels for oil, fuel, and filter changes.
- Resale Value: Used P185 units hold value thanks to demand from contractors.
Detailed Product Reviews ($2,000+ Tow-Behind Units)
1. Ingersoll Rand P185WIR
Who it’s for: Contractors, rental yards, and road crews who need proven performance.
- Key Benefits: 185 CFM, rugged design, diesel-powered reliability.
- Pros: Legendary durability, easy maintenance, widely supported.
- Cons: Premium cost compared to some competitors.
Final Verdict: Best overall tow-behind compressor for contractors. Check Price
2. Doosan C185 Portable Air Compressor
Who it’s for: Buyers seeking a slightly more affordable alternative to IR.
- Key Benefits: 185 CFM, compact towable design, reliable diesel engine.
- Pros: Good value, solid build, trusted brand.
- Cons: Not as rugged as the P185 in extreme conditions.
Final Verdict: Best budget tow-behind option. See Price
3. Kaeser M20 Mobile Compressor
Who it’s for: Contractors who want high efficiency and low fuel consumption.
- Key Benefits: 71 CFM, lightweight, German-engineered design.
- Pros: Extremely efficient, quiet operation, easy service.
- Cons: Smaller output than 185 CFM models.
Final Verdict: Best premium choice for efficiency-focused jobs. Check Price
4. Atlas Copco XAS 188
Who it’s for: Industrial crews needing high-duty-cycle compressed air.
- Key Benefits: 188 CFM, reliable airend, strong enclosure design.
- Pros: Industrial-grade, global support network, efficient design.
- Cons: Higher service costs than IR or Doosan.
Final Verdict: A rugged competitor in the 185 CFM class. View Price
5. Sullair 185 Tier 4 Portable Compressor
Who it’s for: Road contractors wanting a dependable 185 CFM option.
- Key Benefits: 185 CFM, Tier 4 Final diesel, strong brand reputation.
- Pros: Reliable, well supported, durable design.
- Cons: Not as common in rental fleets as IR.
Final Verdict: A dependable alternative for contractors. Check Price
6. Chicago Pneumatic CPS 185
Who it’s for: Buyers needing reliable compressed air with strong dealer support.
- Key Benefits: 185 CFM, rugged build, simple controls.
- Pros: Easy to maintain, good reliability, global brand.
- Cons: Slightly noisier than competitors.
Final Verdict: Solid choice for general contractors. See Price
Comparison Table
| Model | Airflow | Operating Pressure | Engine | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ingersoll Rand P185WIR | 185 CFM | 100 PSI | Diesel (John Deere/Kubota) | ~2,000–2,500 lbs | Check Price |
| Doosan C185 | 185 CFM | 100 PSI | Diesel | ~2,000 lbs | See Price |
| Kaeser M20 | 71 CFM | 100 PSI | Kubota Diesel | ~1,000 lbs | Check Price |
| Atlas Copco XAS 188 | 188 CFM | 100 PSI | Diesel | ~2,200 lbs | View Price |
| Sullair 185 Tier 4 | 185 CFM | 100 PSI | Diesel | ~2,300 lbs | Check Price |
| Chicago Pneumatic CPS 185 | 185 CFM | 100 PSI | Diesel | ~2,100 lbs | See Price |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an Ingersoll Rand P185 cost?
New models can run $25,000–$30,000+, while used units often sell for $8,000–$15,000 depending on condition and hours.
What kind of fuel does the P185 use?
Diesel fuel. Most models use Tier 4-compliant John Deere or Kubota engines in newer units.
Can I rent a P185?
Yes. They are among the most common tow-behind compressors at rental companies like United Rentals and Sunbelt.
How many tools can it power at once?
Typically two 90-lb jackhammers or multiple smaller pneumatic tools simultaneously.
Conclusion
The Ingersoll Rand P185 tow-behind compressor is one of the most popular portable air solutions in the construction world. With rugged durability, high CFM output, and proven diesel reliability, it’s the go-to for contractors and rental companies. If you’re shopping new, the P185WIR remains the standard. But strong alternatives from Doosan, Sullair, Atlas Copco, and Chicago Pneumatic give you options for budget or specialized needs.
The P185 is the best overall choice, the Doosan C185 is the budget-friendly alternative, and the Kaeser M20 is the premium option for efficiency and quiet operation.
Check today’s best tow-behind compressors and used P185 listings here