Explained
Air up!
Dec
As people, we are always looking for ways to make our lives easier. And for us off-roaders, we look for ways to make our 4X4 more capable and the off-road experience more enjoyable. By now, you’re well aware that an ARB Air Compressor is an essential piece of off-road equipment. Whether you use yours to inflate your tires after hitting the trail, fix a blown tire on the trail, or to dry your dishes at the campsite – the uses are endless.
As much as air compressors are a valuable feature in every off road vehicle, they are becoming increasingly difficult to include within the vehicle. Engine bays are getting tighter and don’t have the capacity for added accessories. Finding the best way to integrate such an essential accessory without impacting the interior space or the daily usability of the vehicle has been an important task. In answer to this problem, ARB has developed a bracket solution that allows you to mount your air compressor behind the back seat or in some vehicles underneath one of the front seats.
In this article, we’ll discuss:
Portable compressors
ARB high output portable compressor
The most popular in our range, the ARB High Output Air Compressor has been constructed entirely of lightweight, high-grade materials and is available in both portable and vehicle mounted configurations. With a class-leading flow rate, this compressor has been designed for Air Locker® activation (on-board model), fast tire inflation, and a range of other functions whether they be for work or play. The vehicle mounted kit comes with a full wiring loom and mounting hardware for easy installation, while the portable kit includes a 19ft air hose, battery clamps, inflation kit, and a durable carry case.
Features:
- Sealed for moisture and dust resistance
- Hard-anodized cylinder bore for reduced friction
- Teflon-impregnated carbon fiber piston seal for maximum trouble-free life
- Anodized mounting bracket dissipates motor heat and allows compressor to be repositioned 180 degrees on vehicle mounted models
- Quality components for quiet operation and extra long life
- Constructed entirely of lightweight, high-strength engineering-grade materials
- Over-pressure safety valve equipped
- Motor is internally thermal protected against extreme temperature damage
- Heavy-duty MAXI fuse equipped for professional in-line circuit protection
ARB maximum output portable compressor
Providing optimum power, the ARB twin motor design delivers class-leading air flow for fast inflation purposes. Constructed of lightweight, high-strength engineering grade materials, it incorporates quality components for quiet operation and extended durability. The twin motors incorporate internal thermal protection against extreme temperature damage while a heavy duty in-line MAXI fuse for each motor provides professional circuit protection. Available as either a portable kit with a 1 gallon air tank, inflation accessories and a durable carry case.
Features:
- Designed for inflating tires and Air Locker® activation when used in conjunction with optional accessories
- Suitable for many air tools when used in conjunction with a 1 gallon air tank (optional with on-board models)
- 100% duty cycle
- Sealed for moisture and dust resistance
- Hard anodized cylinder bores for reduced friction
- Teflon impregnated carbon fiber piston seals for maximum trouble-free life
- Anodized mounting bracket dissipates heat
- Integrated pressure switch, relays and IP55 (waterproof/dustproof) brushless fan cools electronics, motors and cylinder heads
- Over-pressure safety valve equipped
On-board air compressors
ARB high output on-board air compressor
The most popular in our range, the ARB High Output Air Compressor has been constructed entirely of lightweight, high-grade materials and is available in both portable and vehicle mounted configurations. With a class-leading flow rate, this compressor has been designed for Air Locker® activation (on-board model), fast tire inflation and a range of other functions whether they be for work or play. The vehicle mounted kit comes with a full wiring loom and mounting hardware for easy installation, while the portable kit includes a 6 meter air hose, battery clamps, inflation kit, and a durable carry case.
Features:
- Sealed for moisture and dust resistance
- Hard-anodized cylinder bore for reduced friction
- Teflon-impregnated carbon fiber piston seal for maximum trouble-free life
- Anodized mounting bracket dissipates motor heat and allows compressor to be repositioned 180 degrees on vehicle mounted models
- Quality components for quiet operation and extra long life
- Constructed entirely of lightweight, high-strength engineering-grade materials
- Over-pressure safety valve equipped
- Motor is internally thermal protected against extreme temperature damage
- Heavy-duty MAXI fuse equipped for professional in-line circuit protection
- On-board model available in either a 12V or 24V configuration
ARB maximum output on-board compressor
Providing optimum power, the ARB twin motor design delivers class-leading air flow for fast inflation purposes. Constructed of lightweight, high-strength engineering grade materials, it incorporates quality components for quiet operation and extended durability. The twin motors incorporate internal thermal protection against extreme temperature damage while a heavy duty in-line maxi fuse for each motor provides professional circuit protection. Available as a vehicle mounted kit with associated wiring loom and mounting hardware.
Features:
- Designed for inflating tires and Air Locker® activation when used in conjunction with optional accessories
- Suitable for many air tools when used in conjunction with a 1 gallon air tank (optional with on-board models)
- 100% duty cycle
- Sealed for moisture and dust resistance
- Hard anodized cylinder bores for reduced friction
- Teflon impregnated carbon fiber piston seals for maximum trouble-free life
- Anodized mounting bracket dissipates heat
- Integrated pressure switch, relays and IP55 (waterproof/dustproof) brushless fan cools electronics, motors and cylinder heads
- Over-pressure safety valve equipped
- On-board model available in either a 12V or 24V configuration
ARB Air Locker activation system
Designed specifically for Air Locker activation and sealed for moisture and dust resistance, this compact on-board compressor comes with a full wiring loom for simplified installation and plug-in connectivity to Air Locker control solenoids. Despite being compact in size, the Air Locker Activation System is built from quality components for quiet operation and extra long life and is suitable for running on the 12V accessory supply for most 12V and 24V vehicles due to its low current draw.
Features:
- Hard anodized cylinder bores for reduced friction
- Teflon impregnated carbon fiber piston seals for maximum trouble free life
- Anodized mounting bracket dissipates motor heat and allows compressor to be repositioned 180 degrees
- Constructed entirely of lightweight, high strength engineering grade materials
- Relocatable air filter assembly for cleaner, cooler air supply and versatile waterproof air intake positioning
Air compressor mounting bracket
Mounting compressors in modern day vehicles becomes more of a challenge because engine bays in today’s vehicles don’t allow much room for added accessories. To address this, ARB has introduced and engineered, a reliable, quality bracket system to properly integrate your ARB Compressor into select vehicles.
Air system accessories
Air locker manifold kit
Designed to work seamlessly with ARB’s maximum performance on-board compressors, the Air Locker® Manifold Kit enables easy installation of Air Locker® solenoids to an air source such as a compressor or regular gas bottle. With a working pressure of 150Psi (1030kPa), the manifold kit incorporates multiple ports for use with ARB’s Pump Up kit, as well as mounting brackets, and a Teflon stainless steel braided hose designed to cool air supply for tire inflation.
Pump up kit for ARB compressors
The all new ARB Pump Up Kit is the perfect companion for the vehicle-mounted range of ARB Air Compressors. The new ARB Pump kit offers the user tyre inflation through their on board ARB Compressor with ease. This kit includes an all new Japanese made high-temperature 7 metre air hose, all new quick connect tyre inflation chuck, air accessory kit, t-piece and an ARB Air Coupling with dust cap.
Aluminum air tank
Ideal for use with ARB’s Maximum Performance and High Output On-Board Compressors and rated to a maximum working pressure of 150Psi (1030kPa), the 4 litre Alminum Air Tank delivers high volume air output suitable for rapid tire inflation and running most air powered air tools. Featuring forged aluminium end caps, the all new ARB Aluminium Air Tank offers more flexible mounting and includes four 1/4NPT ports (user configurable) with two JIC-4 male fittings to suit different vehicle setups.
Air systems accessories
ARB Air Systems complement the line of air compressors by introducing complete vehicle-specific solutions for enthusiasts looking to equip their vehicles with compressors and accessories. The extensive range of Air Systems includes air fittings, various lengths of stainless braided PTFE hose as well as air chuck mounting solutions providing all the necessary components to fit a complete air compressor system to your 4×4, allowing a vehicle to be outfitted front to back with on-demand air.
Tire accessories
ARB Pressure Control with Compressor Connect App
Whether you need to pump up your vehicle’s tyres remotely or let them down before hitting the tracks, with ARB Pressure Control and the Compressor Connect app, there’s no need to always keep the inflator, deflator or pressure gauge handy – you can control your compressor and set target tyre pressures straight from your mobile device!
ARB Inflation Case
With a need for keeping all your ARB air accessories in one place and well organised, an idea was born for a simple yet highly functional bag. The case incorporates all the necessary areas to house ARB Inflation, deflation, Gauges, hoses and general air accessories. Incorporating world renowned YKK Zippers for durability and quality, abrasion resistant canvas, durable rubber handle and high-vis reflective tapping for safety. This ARB inflation bag won’t let you down.
Speedy Seal Puncture Repair Kit Series II
Coming in a compact, high visibility carry case, the Speedy Seal Kit Series II includes all the components necessary to repair tubeless radial or cross ply Tires, without removing the Tire from the vehicle or rim. A pencil type Tyre gauge with dual chuck makes setting pressures a snap, while a spring steel insertion need and hardened reamer tool allow fast Tire repairs.
Kit contains:
- Lubricant for easier tool insertion
- Additional valve accessories (valve core tool, spare valves and valve caps)
- 40 self vulcanising repair cords for complete air sealing
- Allen key
- Blade
- Tire gauge
- Pliers
- Insertion tool
- Reamer tool
ARB Digital Tire Inflator
Most four wheel drivers understand the importance of running the correct Tire pressures for different situations and or load variances. This is why it’s so important to carry an accurate air pressure gauge and Tire inflation equipment in your vehicle, especially when driving off-road. The ARB digital Tire inflator makes checking and adjusting your vehicle’s Tire pressures a fast and simple operation thanks to its large easy to read digital blue backlight display, big thumb operated inflator button and easy access deflator bleed button.
Features:
- Inflate, deflate & measure
- 600mm dual swivel PVC coated braided hose
- Accuracy to +/-1psi @ 25-75psi
- Up to 200hrs runtime on set of batteries
- Easy to read blue backlight display
ARB E-Z Deflator Digital Gauge
The ARB Air Systems E-Z Digital Deflator makes adjusting your vehicle’s tire pressures a fast, accurate, and simple operation.
Features:
- Easy-to-read blue backlit display screen
- Large LCD digital readout
- Screw-on chuck suits all Schrader valves
- Rubber bump guard to protect against drops
- Updated larger carry pouch included
- High-quality brass components and crimps
- 250mm braided line
- Screw-on chuck for positive engagement
- Accuracy to +/- 1psi at 15-75psi
- Max supply pressure: 350psi, 2400kpa
- Up to 200hrs runtime on set of batteries (2 x AAA)
ARB E-Z Tire Deflator
The unique, patented design of the E-Z Deflator allows for removal of the valve core for rapid Tire deflation, while also providing accurate pressure reading via the simple movement of a sliding valve. Provided in a protective canvas pouch, the quality bronze Bourdon Tube gauge design ensures accuracy is not affected by fluctuations in temperature, humidity or altitude.
Features:
- Corrosion resistant brass/stainless deflator tool
- Fully geared, solid brass precision movement
- Protective rubber gauge guard
- Easy to read dial with one PSI increments
ARB Air Pressure Gauge
An ARB air pressure gauge is the ideal way to accurately measure your Tires’ PSI when you’re making adjustments for off-road conditions. A fully geared, solid brass precision movement and Bourdon Tube gauge with flexible hose means easy access for rims with intricate styling.
Features:
- Protective rubber gauge guard
- Easy to read dual pressure scales – PSI and bar
- Flexible hose with dual chuck for all rim and valve types
- Gauge reset button
ARB Low Air Pressure Gauge
Specifically designed for off-road use, this gauge incorporates a lower scale for improved accuracy at lower pressures. Simple to use with a large 889mm diameter gauge and three pressure scales (PSI, kPa and bar).
Features:
- Quality bronze Bourdon Tube gauge ensures accuracy is not affected by changes in temperature, humidity or altitude
- Fully geared, solid brass precision movement
- Protective rubber gauge guard
- Flexible hose with dual chuck for all rim and valve types
ARB Push-On Air Chuck 185 mm
For applications where a long reach is required, such as with bead locks, split rims and dual truck rims, the ARB push-on air chuck makes access simple and stress-free. Featuring a dual chuck for valve access on split rims, the push-on chuck is nickel plated for corrosion protection and incorporates an easy-grip rubber sleeve handle. ARB’s chuck is compatible with any ARB compressor line, which it can be fitted to with a standard US fitting, and it can also be retrofitted using ¼-inch NPT threading. The ARB Push-On Wand Tire Air Chuck has an internal air shut-off valve and easy-grip rubber sleeve.
ARB Tire Air Chuck With Clip
Designed for applications where an angled chuck is required such as small wheels and motorcycle rims, this small air chuck can be fitted to ARB compressor lines with the US standard fitting, or the fitting can be removed and retrofitted with any air fitting using 1⁄4 NPT thread.
Features:
- Compatible with ARB Air Compressors
- Clip on chuck
- Heavy duty nickel plated brass and steel construction
- 1⁄4 NPT US standard male air fitting
- Internal air shut off valve
ARB Tire Pressure Monitor Systems
ARB offers customers a range of tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) that are easy to install and operate. ARB’s TPMS is available in either a DIY external sensor kit, or internal valve replacement kit, both of which feature a small 12V operated display that shows all four tire pressures in real time, detecting any punctures or high temperatures.
Additional features include a 5V/1A USB port for charging other devices without removing the TPMS unit from the socket. Also available is the ARB Sensor Partner, an optional accessory, which pairs internal sensors to the display when the position of the tire is changed.
Tips & tricks
To ensure you’re getting the most out of your compressor, we’ve put together a list of tips and tricks that every ARB Air Compressor owner should know. They are sure to make your life easier after a long day on the trail.
What should I do to maintain my ARB air compressor?
One of the many great benefits of an ARB Air Compressor is the fact that they are practically maintenance free. The only routine maintenance that should be performed is cleaning of the air filter. Simply remove the filter cover from the filter housing which will expose the sintered filter disk. Remove the disk and place it under running water for a quick and thorough cleaning. If the compressor is used often, best practice would be to clean the filter during every engine oil change.
Effortless inflation & deflation at your fingertips
Hence its name, ARB Pressure Control, controls the pressure released by your compressor at the tip of your fingers. Rather than sacrificing your back and knees, crouching to the level of your tire to deflate and inflate, ARB Pressure Control provides the strain free inflation and deflation to a handheld mobile device.
Simply connect your air hose to the compressor and tire, open the pressure control app on your ARB LINX or mobile device, set the desired pressure, then forget about. Your ARB Air Compressor will inflate your tire to the set pressure and turn off once the target pressure is reached.
ARB Pressure Control is available in two different configurations: ARB Pressure Control with ARB LINX or ARB Pressure Control with Compressor Connect App.
How to get more pressure out of an ARB single motor compressor (CKSA & CKMA)
ARB CKSA and CKMA Air Compressors include a pressure switch that regulates pressure up to 100 PSI; which is all you need in most cases. However, if you’re looking for slightly faster Air Locker engagement, need to inflate past 100 PSI, or if your air tools require more pressure, there is an alternative. The ARB Twin Compressor (CKMTA) pressure switch can be used on the smaller compressors. Simply order ARB part #180901, install it on your ARB CKSA or CKMA Air Compressor, and you will be rewarded with an output of 150 PSI.
How do I inflate multiple tires at once with an ARB air compressor?
Two and four tire inflation systems have increased heavily in popularity over the years. And although there are many different methods to tackle this project, few of them use genuine ARB parts. Whether you want a single remote coupling, a front and rear coupling, or a separate coupling for each tire – ARB offers all the parts and fittings needed to create this system. Begin by determining the number of couplings you’d like (0740111) and their location on the vehicle.
Measure the distance from each desired coupling location to the ARB Air Compressor. This will allow you to choose the appropriate length ARB stainless steel hose. Sizes range from 1 ft. to 29 ft.
Single remote coupling setup:
Adapters 0740105, one ARB stainless steel hose (determine length), one surface mount coupling 0740111, and an ARB Air Hose with inflators.
Dual remote coupling setup:
Adapters 0740105, two ARB stainless steel hoses (determine length), two surface mount couplings 0740111, and two ARB Air Hoses with inflators.
Quad remote coupling setup:
Adapters 0740105, two ARB stainless steel hoses 0740201, two adapter T-fittings 0740103, four stainless steel hoses (determine length), four surface mount couplings 0740111, and four ARB Air Hoses with inflators.
ARB recommends adding an ARB Hose Coupling Dust Cap (0740113) to any ARB Coupling that is exposed to the elements. ARB Remote Coupling bracket and kit also available (171314).
