If you have a compressor, you have a power pack. An air operated hydraulic pump takes shop air and turns it into 10,000 psi (700 bar) of hydraulic pressure, with a foot pedal that leaves both hands free for the job. No electricity, no spark, and nothing to overheat when it sits idle holding pressure.

Most of these run happily on 7 to 10 bar of air. What matters is the air volume, not the pressure – a small trade compressor will run the pump, just more slowly, because delivery drops as the tank empties. If the pump feels slow, look at the compressor before you look at the pump.

Fit a filter regulator and lubricator upstream. Wet, dirty air is what kills air motors, and it is a cheap fix at the start compared with a rebuild later.