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[rauan]

What is the advantage of having air compressor in the cabin vs underneath the truck? I have a megacab and I think I should be able to find some space behind rear seats to install one of the smittybuilt compressors I have.
I thought it would make more sense to have it somewhere on the frame, but not sure now.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[Rockcrawlindude]

Very cool video - well done!

Enjoyed the test also on the ARB compressor. My buddy has one and last time we were out I aired up my 37s from 18 to 45 in about 3m 30s each.

I would be interested to learn more about how you mounted your compressor to your frame since I still have not decided how to mount my ExtremeAire. Right now I am considering designing a bracket that will mount to the frame although yours appears to be mounted directly. Please share more info.

The ARB compressor that I purchased ships with a mounting plate and template. The compressor housing bolts to that template with four rubber feet to isolate vibrations. I decided that I wanted to use that mounting plate in my mounting solution. Once mounted to the plate, the compressor can be clocked.

I debated about mounting the compressor in the front or rear of the rig and I didn’t really have a compelling argument for or against either location. I decided I would probably mount it on the driver side because that is the battery side.

I held the compressor up in multiple places under the rig. Outboard of the frame under the bed there is a bunch of room under the taillight but it is subject to lots of tire spray and I have an amp bed step that takes up room there. Didn’t make sense to cram it inside the front bumper. I found a nice little place outboard on the frame, under the rear seats, with two holes pre-tapped which happened to take some bolts that I had in my bin. Had to make some spacers and do a little grinding but ended up modifying the ARB mounting foot plate and it bolts to the truck with two bolts.

As far as determining the location of the QD air fittings, the front was a no-brainer. I knew I wanted one in the cubby. The rear I initially thought I wanted to be by the license plate but decided to just put it by the switch, mostly because there is already a 3/4” hole right there lol

 

[el_barto]

What is the advantage of having air compressor in the cabin vs underneath the truck? I have a megacab and I think I should be able to find some space behind rear seats to install one of the smittybuilt compressors I have.
I thought it would make more sense to have it somewhere on the frame, but not sure now.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I put mine inside the cab because it would stay clean and dry, and thus have no issues with corrosion. Access is easy if I need to get to it, but out of the way otherwise. Plus it is nice and central location to run lines to the front and rear of the truck.
Downside, is it’s noisy if it’s running while you’re in the cab. But normally while airing up I’m not in the cab so it’s no big deal

 

[Lumpskie]

Have you guys seen the Sherpa 4x4 Big Air? It puts out 10 CFM @ 20psi and 7.2 CFM @ 50psi.... it's designed for high volume at pressures up to 90 psi ( 5.2CFM @80psi)

Sherpa Air Compressor (BIG-AIR)

Sherpa BIG AIR SUV and truck Air Compressor. Available in 12V or 24V. Portable and Oil Free. Toughest 4x4 Equipment. Massive air flows. Pump up tires or use as an on board air compressor. Can be integrated with air tanks and pressure switches. Fast Shipping to the US.

sherpa4x4.com

Here's their (very Australian) video:

EDIT: I know they are really expensive but it seems like you could get an industrial style compressor out of this... especially with a larger external tank.

 

[DarkNight]

I shared this in the ARB compressor thread but don’t think I updated here. Installed my ARB under the truck and ran quick connects front and rear.

When mounting the ARB compressor (or other brands if you can) I would relocate the intake on the compressor up to behind the taillight or somewhere higher with cleaner air and less chance of water. Just unscrew the intake and run some fittings and air line.

 

[Rockcrawlindude]

When mounting the ARB compressor (or other brands if you can) I would relocate the intake on the compressor up to behind the taillight or somewhere higher with cleaner air and less chance of water. Just unscrew the intake and run some fittings and air line.

The restriction isn’t worth it to me because I’m not running the air compressor while I’m operating the vehicle, so it won’t be taking and big gulps of water. But, very good point for others to consider.

 

[rauan]

To add to my previous post.
I ended up adding the pressure switch and standard quick connects to the my hard mounted/wired smitty compressor. Next will be a 4 tire inflation kit.

View attachment 15298

Is your compressor constantly powered on battery power? I bought the same unit and installed underneath my truck, but I think it leaks because it turns on every few minutes for a couple of seconds. I am suspecting the metric to 1/4" adapter, because it doesn't feel tight when I screw it in and when I installed it first time I found it was leaking on 1/4" male connector side. I reapplied more teflon tapes and put it back, but no success. You must have used the similar adapter and pressure switch.

I bought these power switch and adapter when converted my connectors:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07KXY2MJF?ref=ppx_yo2_dt_b_product_details&th=1

Amazon.com: Pipe 1/4" NPT Male X M12 M12X1 Male Metric Adapter Fitting Oil Fuel Air : Industrial & Scientific

Buy Pipe 1/4" NPT Male X M12 M12X1 Male Metric Adapter Fitting Oil Fuel Air: Pipe Fittings - Amazon.com ✓ FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases

www.amazon.com

Now I am thinking to buy this adapter and try it:

Pipe 1/4" NPT Female X M12 M12X1 Male Metric Adapter Fitting Oil Fuel Air: Amazon.com: Industrial & Scientific

Pipe 1/4" NPT Female X M12 M12X1 Male Metric Adapter Fitting Oil Fuel Air: Amazon.com: Industrial & Scientific

www.amazon.com

 

[AnthonyD1978]

Is your compressor constantly powered on battery power? I bought the same unit and installed underneath my truck, but I think it leaks because it turns on every few minutes for a couple of seconds. I am suspecting the metric to 1/4" adapter, because it doesn't feel tight when I screw it in and when I installed it first time I found it was leaking on 1/4" male connector side. I reapplied more teflon tapes and put it back, but no success. You must have used the similar adapter and pressure switch.

I bought these power switch and adapter when converted my connectors:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07KXY2MJF?ref=ppx_yo2_dt_b_product_details&th=1

Amazon.com: Pipe 1/4" NPT Male X M12 M12X1 Male Metric Adapter Fitting Oil Fuel Air : Industrial & Scientific

Buy Pipe 1/4" NPT Male X M12 M12X1 Male Metric Adapter Fitting Oil Fuel Air: Pipe Fittings - Amazon.com ✓ FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases

www.amazon.com

Now I am thinking to buy this adapter and try it:

Pipe 1/4" NPT Female X M12 M12X1 Male Metric Adapter Fitting Oil Fuel Air: Amazon.com: Industrial & Scientific

Pipe 1/4" NPT Female X M12 M12X1 Male Metric Adapter Fitting Oil Fuel Air: Amazon.com: Industrial & Scientific

www.amazon.com

No, I manually turn off the compressor using the compressor on/off switch. I still have to open my ram box and connect the line so I figure I might as well use the on/off switch. I've never used the pressure switch for any extended period of time so I'm not sure if it would leak over a few hours.

I'm using the 70-100 psi pressure switch since I only use it for my tires. You might want to think about using one of those to put less pressure on the fittings.

I assume you also used Teflon on all the fittings...

 

[rauan]

No, I manually turn off the compressor using the compressor on/off switch. I still have to open my ram box and connect the line so I figure I might as well use the on/off switch. I've never used the pressure switch for any extended period of time so I'm not sure if it would leak over a few hours.

I'm using the 70-100 psi pressure switch since I only use it for my tires. You might want to think about using one of those to put less pressure on the fittings.

I assume you also used Teflon on all the fittings...

May I ask you to turn it on and wait for a few min to see if it leaks? Mine doesn't take long to start again. If it is leaking somewhere on connectors I will eventually find it, but if it is compressor itself I wanted to save time that I may spend troubleshooting.

I have changed the metric converter to original one and connected it using the air hose to se if it makes the difference. No luck. The reason for that was I noticed that thread on adapter I bought on amazon was shorter, I was not sure if it matters or not but decided to change and see. The original connector is on the left below.



I initially used teflon on all of the connections, but I bought Loctite 242 and used it on the connections that I broke.

Thank you for suggestion to change the pressure switch. I think it is a good idea. I already ordered one with 70-100 psi ratings from Amazon. I made a quick search but didn't find anything lower than that. I was thinking 50-80 psi or something close to that.

 

[Shadowboxin20]

Bought a train horn so the kids could have fun with it. 5 gallon tank and badass compressor mounted under the truck. Works fantastic for my jobsites, filling tires, and making people **** their pants

 

[AnthonyD1978]

May I ask you to turn it on and wait for a few min to see if it leaks? Mine doesn't take long to start again. If it is leaking somewhere on connectors I will eventually find it, but if it is compressor itself I wanted to save time that I may spend troubleshooting.

I have changed the metric converter to original one and connected it using the air hose to se if it makes the difference. No luck. The reason for that was I noticed that thread on adapter I bought on amazon was shorter, I was not sure if it matters or not but decided to change and see. The original connector is on the left below.


I initially used teflon on all of the connections, but I bought Loctite 242 and used it on the connections that I broke.

Thank you for suggestion to change the pressure switch. I think it is a good idea. I already ordered one with 70-100 psi ratings from Amazon. I made a quick search but didn't find anything lower than that. I was thinking 50-80 psi or something close to that.

I just left it on for about 4 minutes and it didn't kick back on. Get a spray bottle with some soapy water and start spraying your connections to see if they bubble up.

 

[Chris85xlt]

I recently just installed on board air in my 2022 PW. Used a NH overland mount with a Viair 400c compressor. i might add a 2.5 gallon tank sometime in the future but for now it'll just fill tires.
Im using the same Viair 400c compressor with a 2 gallon tank on my JKUR and its been great for the last 10 years. The wrangler is on 37x13.5r17 Toyo tires

 

[JLines]

I was thinking of installing VIAIR 485C continuous duty compressor in the bed of my truck under my tonneau cover canister with the air tank under the bed somewhere. Has anyone else tried this? I typically keep my tonneau cover closed unless towing 5th wheel.

 

[waveslayer]

I was thinking of installing VIAIR 485C continuous duty compressor in the bed of my truck under my tonneau cover canister with the air tank under the bed somewhere. Has anyone else tried this? I typically keep my tonneau cover closed unless towing 5th wheel.

I apologize in advance , I have seen this done on several other trucks. Installing the tank under the bed between the frame pillars, and then running the air hose to an outlet in the bed. You can make it pretty slick by having a quick detach, QD, installed somewhere in the bed so you don't have the hose getting in the way. I have seen guys install the air compressor inside under their seats as well, that made me so nervous because of the heat issues and having it catch fire!

 

[JLines]

What you describe about the QD outlet in the bed is exactly what I was thinking as well. For my app, it sounds like I could get by with not even installing the tank since it is for use with my 5th wheel basically keeping the tires all properly inflated as well as the air cushion on the hitch. The space under the tonneau cover canister is pretty protected and there would a lot of air around the pump. I guess I could install it without the tank initially and see how it all work out. It doesn't sound like there is a concern for moisture around the tank so mounting under the truck seems to make sense. My main concern was the pump and that it not be in water ... but that would pretty much only happen when I am towing my 5th wheel and would hit rain ... other than that my bed stays dry. I've read the entire thread and I didn't see anyone mention installing it in their bed and how it worked ... or didn't work for them.

 

[Desertfox73]

I've been talking with Innovative AT Products about developing a version of their ARB dual compressor kit (which they usually do for Jeeps). They've been working on one for a Ram 2500 that would have the compressor sit under the drivers seat, a T-valve with connector at that location, and a line running to a secondary connector under the passenger seat. This will for all 4 tires to deflate and inflate at the same time in an open system (I.e. all air lines/tires are equal pressure). I ran that system on my Gladiator and it was awesome to be able to air up and down all 4 tires at a time with one setup. Only downside: I had to keep the cabin doors open while it was running so the lines didn't get pinched. In good weather that's not an issue, but in very cold or otherwise crappy weather...not so great.

Although the 2500 kit they're working on is again being designed for underseat mount, I've asked them to modify it so that I can mount the compressor/T-vale in the driver's side Rambox and the secondary connector on the other side of the truck. Again, this would allow for all 4 tires to depressurize/pressurize at the same time to the exact same pressure, but the benefit of having the system mounted in the Rambox is that it it's protected, and can be run without having to keep the front cabin doors open. Yes, it will take up some space in the Rambox, but I'm OK with that.

I'll update the thread when it's done.

Finally got this done, had it installed today. The ARB twin sits in the Rambox, passenger side, towards the cab. It's mounted to a bracket to keep it from moving around. My shop is in the process of fabricating another bracket to hold the T-valve, but in the meantime it's secured with zip ties. I'm happy with the amount of space it occupies, it's great.

Air lines run to the front and rear bumper where outlet connectors are mounted, nice and clean. As desired, all 4 tires can be connected and simultaneously aired down or up.

As a test, I aired down to about 25psi, then back up to 40. Airing down is very fast, and airing up was rather quick as well. I didn't time it (I was more interested in testing the function, not speed), but I would guess it aired down in under 3 minutes and back up in about 5-6 minutes. I'm running 40x15.50r20 tires, by the way.

Aside from how the system works, I'm very pleased to know that I can air up and down without having to have the doors open or monitor things from outside - the digital dash gauge is all I need, so I can air up and down from the comfort on being in the cab, without the sound of the compressor.

 

[kkerley]

Finally got this done, had it installed today. The ARB twin sits in the Rambox, passenger side, towards the cab. It's mounted to a bracket to keep it from moving around. My shop is in the process of fabricating another bracket to hold the T-valve, but in the meantime it's secured with zip ties. I'm happy with the amount of space it occupies, it's great.

Air lines run to the front and rear bumper where outlet connectors are mounted, nice and clean. As desired, all 4 tires can be connected and simultaneously aired down or up.

As a test, I aired down to about 25psi, then back up to 40. Airing down is very fast, and airing up was rather quick as well. I didn't time it (I was more interested in testing the function, not speed), but I would guess it aired down in under 3 minutes and back up in about 5-6 minutes. I'm running 40x15.50r20 tires, by the way.

Aside from how the system works, I'm very pleased to know that I can air up and down without having to have the doors open or monitor things from outside - the digital dash gauge is all I need, so I can air up and down from the comfort on being in the cab, without the sound of the compressor.

Pictures? Did they do their own wiring to power it? I would like to do the same but on the drivers side, probably won’t do the control box though, waiting on the dethloff mounting plate, should be here this week.

 

[Desertfox73]

Pictures? Did they do their own wiring to power it? I would like to do the same but on the drivers side, probably won’t do the control box though, waiting on the dethloff mounting plate, should be here this week.

Photos attached, and yes, they did their own wiring. The compressor is attached to one of the OEM up fitter AUX switches.

I will be getting some caps to cover the air chucks, in the meantime ductape is my friend. I'll try to remember to take photos of the system in use next week when I'm out on the trail.