Simple question. I keep reading about mityvac (or is it mightyvac?). I did a quick search and it seems maybe there isn't a single 'mityvac' but rather tons to chose from (many models even on mityvac.com, but also many vendors of similar units).

• Can I have some recommendations on what to buy (model, brand and vendor)

• what is a good/fair price to look for

• do these things work as both vac and pressurizing units?

All produce vacuum, some have a port you can use for pressure.

Metal should be tougher than plastic but I haven't broken my plastic unit. Haven't broken the metal unit either.

Based on these options - Mityvac , I'd get a metal body pump with gauge and pressure capability. You'd think they'd point you to particular models and kits.

Sixto
87 300D

This page is more useful - Mityvac . I'd pick the MV8510

Sixto
87 300D

I got the MV7201 Fluid Evacuator about two years ago and has worked like a charm with no issues. Works well for putting too much oil in your system too I've sucked out power steering fluid and did a brake flush too. The plastic walls of the cylinder have ribs to add stiffness while you extract the hot/warm oil from your car...very important. I bought an extractor from Griots Garage (they don't sell it any more) 6 years ago and it was not big enough to suck out 7ish quarts of oil and would cave in from the suction and heat of the oil. Both my brother and I have had no issues with the mitivac.

I assumed the OP was looking for a Mityvac testing and diagnosis tool. You're right, mityvac makes fluid evacuation devices as well.

Sixto
87 300D

I bought the Craftsman version rather than the Mitivac™ one. It cost around $40 and, unlike its big brand brother, it is made out of metal, not plastic.

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[GONE] - 1995 Mercedes E300 Diesel - 130k miles - Smoke Silver (702) over Mushroom leather (265) - Bladder blasting, coast-to-coast work machine.

One with a gauge. I also find the pressure feature on my older model useful. I've gotten by with a PVC body, so could recommend the MV8255. Harbor Freight sells chinese knock-offs, but they have a bad rep.

Mity-vac is to vacuum hand pumps what kleenex is to facial tissues.

The first question is what do you want to do with vac / pressure?

Have a old mechanical fuel pump or a diesel vac pump? Weld / bolt on a handle and you have a pump.

Need vac in volume? Some diesels ( Ford or GM ) have a belt driven pump , others have a ignition distributor looking unit, both could be adapted to a small electric motor.