Offroad Air Compressors - ARB Dual Vs ARB Single Vs PowerTank Vs Portable!?

Choosing an offroad air compressor can sometimes be confusing. SHould you jump straight to a big CO2 setup, a dual air compressor, or start off with a portable unit???
In this video we take a look at some of the most popular air compressors for Jeeps and Offroading.
These include, a cheap portable amazon compressor, both single and dual ARB units, and even a 15lb CO2 system from PowerTank.
Why do you need to air up in the first place?
Before you start your day off offroading, trail riding, rock crawling, or overlanding, you should air down your tires for more traction and a more comfortable ride. While low tire pressure is great for offroad use, its not a good idea once you finish up your day and need to head home on the highway.
Sure, you could borrow a buddys compressor, or even stop at a gas station to fill up. But both of those options are less than ideal. And if you plan on hitting the trails more often, then you need to invest in an airing up solution based on your Needs, Budget, and tire size.
Hopefully this video will help you decide what might be best for your needs and wants. As you can tell, each compressor is very different and performance varies greatly from one tire size to the next.
ARB Single Air Compressor: amzn.to/2Y4F8xe
ARB Dual Compressor: amzn.to/3eQCtgG
Powertank: powertank.com/
Portable Compressors that wont go up in smoke lol: amzn.to/2Y7nvNw amzn.to/2KB5XkM
Here is my recommendation;
Stock size- 33s Go with a portable unit or ARB Single
35s- ARB single
35s-37s ARB single, or Dual Preferred.
37s-39s Dual or Powertank
40s+ Powertank for speed, Dual will also be a good option.

[@JKGearandGadgets]

Another great option I didn’t mention, Viar portable unit. I put a link to it in the video description!

[@jerome4995]

Many compressors have a duty cycle. The cheap one you toasted probably has a two minute on five minute off duty cycle. If this is followed the plastic piston last longer. I'd be curious to what the instructions on that compressor say. It would definitely take much much longer to fill a tire but in a pinch or lack of funds it is better than a bicycle pump!!! Keep the great content! *I did post this separately but thought it would be useful info for others.

[@mercurials54]

Viair on my wish list

[@richardeblantonii5893]

Powertanks new Monster Valc 3 does not require you to tap the hole. You can also carfully drill a larger hole in a regular valv.

[@billbarker3715]

I wanna be entered in the give away. Good informative video. Thanks.

[@donhappel9928]

Every time I see a compressor test I hope to see the Viair dual 400 go up against the ARB dual, but nobody seems to know it exists. It's about $300 so almost half the cost of the ARB, and has higher volume than the ARB -ie airs up tires faster. The only drawback is it's rated 33% duty cycle vs the 100% ARB (note Viair does offer it as 100% as well with a reduced volume). HOWEVER - I've used mine to air up 10 tires back-to-back (playing in the dunes with friends who didn't have compressors) without overheating and most people report they've never hit the thermal cut-out. The 33% is EXTREMELY conservative and I've never come close to hitting the thermal cut-off doing one truck/4 tires. I've also 'raced' mine against identical trucks with the same size tires and yes, it's faster if only a bit. But again - half the price! I can only guess people don't use it in the comparisons because it requires you to mount it yourself instead of coming with pre-fab bolt in no-drill kits like the ARB? But come on - we're wheelers here. I thought only mall-crawlers needed pre-fab bolt ons?

[@unlimitedljadventure]

I’ve had a 10lb powertank for 10+ years and love it. I even have a powertank setup for my Yukon zip lockers. No noise and works amazing

[@henryblen334]

Thumbs up for Cassie trying to open the hood like a TJ 🤣

[@gpfdrizit]

Consider adding a small tank to your dual arb. I run mine with 37s that I usually drop to 4psi I kick the compressor on while I'm getting my hoses out and have a full tank ready when I start filling. Then while you are switching wheels your compressor is still doing work and speeding up your fill even faster.

[@polloloko1992]

Tienes foto de como. Lo conectaste con el tanque..

[@kevinhagen3231]

Seems like a good gift to give to my mom for Mother’s Day. Add me to the drawing. Thanks.

[@NJ_Mark]

Good info. I like that Cassie is in a lot of your videos now. You're two channels are great!

[@JP-ic1fi]

Hey Ben, I ended up running the ARB Dual Compressor on my JKU. I also have a 10lb Power Tank as a back-up, which allows for running air tools, and it can be switched from my Jeep to my truck when needed. Works for me. Thanks to you and Cassie for the videos.

[@bmcotton41582]

I just bought a JT and am throwing some 35s on it. I am new to the Jeep life style but your videos are great for giving me ideas and leading me in the right direction!!

[@PowerTankOfficial]

Thank you for another great episode! An important thing to remember when comparing price is that a Power Tank is sold as a complete system with a hose, brackets, and tire inflator while most compressors sell those items separately for an added price. Also included in the price of a Power Tank is a limited lifetime warranty and excellent customer service. No other portable air system gives you that. There are folks out wheeling with Power Tanks that are 20+ years old and have outlasted the vehicles they were originally mounted to!

[@allterralandscapeservices3112]

Power Tank Official on average how many times can you fill up a set of four tires (20lbs each tire). I know it’s based on the size of tank. Just curious how often I’d have to fill up the tank

[@PowerTankOfficial]

@@allterralandscapeservices3112 It also depends on the size of the tire. We have a handy air up chart here. powertank.com/pages/tire-air-up-chart

[@JOEHILLS1]

Thanks for posting a comment and reminding me to purchase that replacement monster valve I’ve been needing for my spare tire.

[@dennisw3037]

Power Tank Official v

[@gpfdrizit]

Arb has given me excellent customer service on my dual arb. A phone call has always gotten me replacement parts or an rma with a prepaid way ill from Canada to send it in for repairs. My compressor is now 8 years old and with a phone call and telling them my sn arb shipped me a complete motor assembly after asking if I prefred them to ship the part or rma the entire winch. To say that compressor manufacturers don't have good customer service is really not fair and is a bit of a low blow coming from a manufacturer. You are quite fair to mention the added cost of brackets, hoses, and chucks though.

[@caminoracer7987]

very informative video, I would like seeing more like this because it can relate to everyone no matter what rig you have !

[@clevelandaglennable]

Great video! I am new to 4wheeling but your video gave me information when I am equipping my vehicle for off road trips. Thanks!

[@nblivin]

Just installed and ARB locker in the rear Ford 9" on my TJ and absolutely love the Twin ARB compressor! So nice not to have to lug around my Smittybuilt portable and it is literally twice as fast! Great video!

[@jerome4995]

Many compressors have a duty cycle. The cheap one you toasted probably has a two minute on five minute off duty cycle. If this is followed the plastic piston last longer. I'd be curious to what the instructions on that compressor say. It would definitely take much much longer to fill a tire but in a pinch or lack of funds it is better than a bicycle pump!!! Keep the great content!

[@jerome4995]

@@boriscook6817 ? Not sure I follow you... Duty cycles on equipment and then going to zero psi.

[@keithsmith1214]

Yeah even the expensive ones seem to have a duty cycle. Definitely needs to be taken into consideration.

[@JBAY0129]

My little energizer runs for 8 min needs a 2-3 min break before running 8 min again. Takes about 25 min to air up 1 tire.

[@jerome4995]

@@JBAY0129 that is pretty decent cycle time for an emergency trunk unit! Running a homebrew "powertank" and an ARB Dual in my rig have come in handy in their own ways but how much is one willing to spend!? I have used a bicycle pump once...once.

[@vinuezaer]

Great stuff. Was just thinking about that for a summer trip. You saved me time. Going with a decent single or the tank. Thank you.

[@VictorVectorJKU]

I liked the intro! Good touch to start the video. That power tank is impressive!

[@chrisbentley3693]

Hey guys love your channel, great video! I could use it as a starter compressor for my 35s on the trails. Keep up the awesome videos. 👍🏻

[@jeepthis1257]

Great comparison video. I just ordered a ARB high output single compressor can’t wait to try it out. Went with arb because gears and lockers are next

[@aaronanthony1363]

I have a twin air under the seat of my two door and love it and use it more than I thought I would..

[@Mr_Spool8550]

Count me in for the air compressor. Also awesome content! Keep up the good work Ben and Cassie!! 🤙

[@tcr73903]

You guys are doing a great job working together!

[@offroadjeep6035]

@ *Marcus Barrett* they do make a great team, I noticed a couple of times Cassie wanted to say something but she waited until Ben was through talking.

[@newbwheeler9777]

Also a very informative video. Thanks for putting this out there.👍

[@lbbowhunter1]

Currently using the smittybilt 5.4 high volume. Great option when on sale. Great video!!

[@rcjeepers]

Lafe Ball mine lasted about 5 trips...I now run the viair dual 400.

[@matthelms7697]

I’m running 35s with the single arb also runs my lockers it’s great considering I don’t have beadlocks so I usually run around 12 to 15 psi

[@mozartheart2958]

Nice and informative video, good team as well.

[@captdunnawayify]

I run 35's on my TJ , 37's on the JLUR and 37's also on the JTR .. and we use the twin ARB .. kind of have the same fleet as you .. like the channel.. love the videos 👍

[@MikeCarrillo229]

Best product review vids around, keep em comin’ guys!! Also, put my name in the runnin’ for that portable one. I’m thinking about going the ARB route for sure

[@jamesshingledecker3158]

I had just purchased the single ARB for my JK on 37, but now I'm going to send it back & buy the double.. Thanks for the video!!

[@JKGearandGadgets]

You will like the dual setup a lot better for 37s

[@Mistakes_Were-Made]

Great video! I ended up getting the Smittybilt 6.5cfm compressor. More than enough for my 31's and eventually 33's

[@foihdzas]

Thanks for putting in effort in to the intro, No matter how cheesy! Also, I have been running a cheap Amazon special for about 8 years, but, BUT, only running 33's, and never below 12 psi. I always air up to 25 before I hit the road, and finish at home with a regular compressor. It will go boom soon tho. It doesn't owe me a thing! Cheers.

[@PaulKaiser42]

Great video as always....never thought of having a back up

[@cl37323]

I have 35’s and use the Smittybuilt compressor. Give the Amazon one to someone who needs a compressor. Great videos , I’ve learned a lot watching yours and Cassie’s

[@shawnvergilia1609]

As much as I use my portable and as long a I've had it, I should look into other options. Great comparison

[@VideoShowMeHow]

Totally worth running the Jeep while airing up, running the comps at 14.4v gets you there even faster ;)

[@GoatOffroad]

I’m looking for onboard air now for my XJ, so Thank You for doing this video ❤️🐞

[@MischiefMakerTV]

Love the intro! I’m always a fan of having at least 2 options, which means Powertank and an ARB dual compressor with a 2gal air tank. CO2 is great, but you never know when having an unlimited air supply will come in handy. 😀👍🏻

[@Tommypollock]

Doesn’t the CO2 lose pressure somewhat when it gets cold? I know NOS use bottle heaters to keep the pressure up after hard use.

[@jakobwest4811]

Really awesome comparison Ben. All my buddies have the Smittybuilt portable and they would get so hot and take so long. I invested in a powertank and I love it. It's quiet and takes like 30 seconds or so to fill up my 33s. It's expensive, but I believe in their product and I expect it to last a long while. You have to swap the tank every few trips, but to me it's worth the speed and the sound. You also have the ability to move it and use it outside the Jeep, run tools, and even re-seat beads. (obviously I don't need to be considered for the giveaway)

[@Venom-kq5xz]

Wow! I’ve been pushing my portable, but that could be a bad thing to have on the trail. Need the twin arb. That aired up so fast. I know I watched a sunset go too complete darkness waiting on my tires to air up once, and I’m always down to help out my group I’m with. This is definitely a video many have thoughts on just because depending on how much you wheel may be the reason you go for one over the other, and then there are air lockers you can hook up also. Awesome video!

[@suzukirider5893]

I'm in for the air compressor, thanks for another great video.

[@knightscape]

I would love to have a compressor. 6 mo into Jeep ownership and loving it! Winch and compressor are my next purchases.

[@trailhunterusa]

Great test. Thanks for sharing!

[@bobbyrob2008]

You both are awesome!!! Thanks for the great content!!! 👍👊

[@greatwhiteshark448]

I have single arb for lockers n dual arb running 37s n 40s . I've also had smitty built 10 gallon air tank but too small for 40s. Runs out of air too fast so upgraded to 15lb. power tank n oh boy it is night n day differents . Power tank is amazing so smooth fast n airchuck is super heavy duty . I thought my arb airchuck was nice . For me power tank is my choice for tires. Love your channel. Keep up the great content.

[@Trustyconsultinggroup]

I was literally looking for a compressor today lol this video definitely helped

[@danpivato9606]

Great video guys. I've had my eyes set on the ARB DUAL but I'm undecided as to where I will mount it. Guess I'll cross that bridge when I get to it. Thanks for the info!👍

[@jimh4177]

As a new jeep owner the portable air Compressor would be a great start to developing my off-road skills.

[@RobertDavis-tn2bc]

FYI they make a relocation bracket for the York to keep your A/C intact.

[@c4onmylip]

When I was running 33s, a power tank would fill me up from the 15-20 psi range to 36 psi in like 10 seconds through the regular valve stem lol. Those things are awesome.

[@timfirnkes4811]

I don’t remember if you mentioned that you can also run air lockers off of a power tank. 😊. Another great video! Keep up the great work.

[@jarredjones8447]

Cheesy intro was awesome. Lol. The portable compressor would be great in my wife's WK2 on 33's!

[@earlbartlett4699]

Lots of great info. That portable compressor would be awesome for my 35". Stay Safe 👍

[@tonysmith5204]

I have the Viair continuous run compressor. We aired up three JK’s after the Rubicon Trail two 35’s one 37. Yes the compressor was hot. That was two years ago and it’s still runs great.

[@austincorbiniv]

Glad to see you back in the Crocs

[@michaelprince129]

Good info thanks !! I just got a '23 JLUR 392 XR and will either get the single or dual ARB. But, on my TJ, I have the Kilby OBA (which is a converted York air compressor). You don't have to remove your factory A/C - it comes with a mounting bracket and a larger serpentine belt - and a 1 gallon tank. Great system and a little faster than the single ARB but not as fast as the dual.

[@MrBigshow101171]

I wanna be entered. Another great video. You help us to learn how to install things and helps us to belt we can do it without taking it to a shop. Just like your wife's page, her welding gussets on her axles..etc, some channels are to concerned about sponsors more commercialized and having someone or shops do the installs. Thank you for helping us through installs. Keepem coming

[@gregdzuranin1720]

I have the total overkill setup from Next Venture Motorsports and Air command. I am running 38s and it works amazing!

[@ericsmith2093]

Great video as always, been debating on power tank or arb. Wouldn’t mind winning that cheap compressor either for the DD Chevy

[@MikeBrownOhio]

Be nice to have it in the old truck with 33s, mainly used to move stuff here on the property... Stay safe... Have a great day...

[@ckl8a]

I have the big portable compressor from harbor freight, which was about $60 i think. had it for about 5 years. first use, we just ran it till it overheated and had to wait for it to cool off....took forever. after that i set out to improve it's cooling. I added a small heat sync from an old computer to the top of the cylinder and actually modified it so that it draws air through the motor to help cool it. after that it aired up 2 trucks with 31's before overheating. but then I knew it was gonna take forever to cool down and air up my truck with 33's, and I had a genius idea to take a wet rag and cool it off faster. it was so hot the rag was sizzling when i touched it! but that did the trick and ever since I always use a wet rag to help cool it off, plus it gives you something to do while waiting for it to air up. my old truck had 33's, my new truck has 32's and it takes about 20 min to air up from 12-15psi to 35psi. with my slick water cooled trick I have run it continuously for over an hour doing 3 trucks when I was the only one with a compressor! maybe i need some better prepared friends. lol

[@ilikspltv8377]

Hey you two. New to your channel. I am working on a TJ build right now. So maybe soon catch you on the trails. Keep up the good work

[@dstallard5673]

I've got an 87 YJ and a 14 JKU both on 35's. Bought the Smittybilt portable compressor and it works great for when there's a line at the filling station coming off the beach. The only off roading I do 😁

[@TheLegend-lo1fm]

I like the shot of the crocs at the beginning

[@mikhail2400]

On my 01 TJ ive been running the same ARB single compressor for 6 years with no problems. It handles my little ole 33s with ease, along with my ARB rear locker and had no problems airing up the dodge 2500s tires which run at 80lbs of pressure. Im gone have to check out the Power Tank though, I like that setup.

[@kentucky4x456]

Great video! Just upgraded to 35's on my JK and my $20 hyper tough inflator from Walmart seems to be struggling a bit. I think it's time for an upgrade to an ARB compressor when I find a few extra bucks.

[@dirf554]

I’ve had a portable one for years. It’s rated to pump up a 300 psi trailer tire. I’ve filled a trailer tire up to 225 and it didn’t go any higher. It is slow but only cost me like 60 bucks over ten years ago so I’ve gotten my money back. Still works today:)

[@Racefan986]

Love the content! I’m a new Jeep owner 2017 Smoky Mountain JK. I need a compressor!

[@thetreyrich1]

I just acquired a 2010 JK on 40s. It came with a single arb dedicated to the airlockers and then two viair 350c compressors on a 2 gallon tank all under the hood for tires and tools.

[@huntinbob06]

I've run a Power Tank for 15 years. A couple of years ago I added a 20lb tank and have never looked back. I have never forgotten to fill the tank. I drive a Rubi so the lockers are electric.

[@cheveyok9]

Good video! Currently weighing my options for JT.

[@scottsyellowrubicon1]

I have a 2004 TJ ...I have 35’s and I use the Dual ARB Compressor...I also have it plumbed into my front bumper that gives me about a 3 gallon tank. Works great.

[@chrisnewman8918]

I'm running 35's on my Tacoma and 37's on my Jeep. The "too low for driving on the street " line reminded me that I need to mess with the pressure on the Jeep to see what rides better. A video on different pressures for different setups and scenarios would be low cost and a good time to reveal the winner. 🤷🏿‍♂️

[@mikehoffman3690]

Great info. Love my ARB for my 35s

[@dk12811]

Your Jeeps all look so good. I noticed that a lot of Jeeps have to wait in line at AOAA trail park to add air to the tires on the exit parking lot. Having a portable air unit would be a good idea for my JKU Willys.

[@duanegrantham266]

Would really love to win that compressor, great info as always! Thanks Ben and Cassie

[@thomaskelly6665]

Great test

[@sassinator21]

Great video... I just got my arb twin put into my JT. It took 2 min 30 seconds per tire to fill from 13 to 25 psi on my 37’s... why did this take soo long... I was close to 9000 feet up in the mountains of Colorado. Cool to see that the compressors work faster at different elevations.

[@jgreve75]

I have a larger Viair that I use, but also bring along a cheapo unit as well as the one built into my jump box only for anyone with stockers that needs to air up, but didn’t bring a compressor. Good timing on this video as I have been looking to upgrade to a singe or dual ARB. Running 37’s and no issues with the Viair, but looking for some faster fill up options so I’m free to help some of the other members of the group.

[@zr2zamboni906]

Love you guys. Love the videos. I run a 10 lbs PowerTank myself. Would love to give my elderly parents an air compressor for their truck - enter me in the drawing. Should start a lifestyle channel called “Crocs and socks” 😳🤪🤣

[@andrewaymond6570]

My dad has used a smittybuilt portable compressor for as long as I can remember and it’s worked fine. He is running 37x14.50r15 it does take forever to air up but it works

[@SMfkngC]

Another good use for the power tank and the large air valve is if you roll the tyre off the bead and are able to half re-seat the bead you have enough flow to pop the tyre back on in most cases

[@justiceknight6877]

Thank you for the video, I usually wake before the sun and have become bored with the interwebs and the facespace already. Plus stores aren't open yet, & grass still too MOIST to mow.

[@lonniet.2816]

great video! I have 31s on my XJ . That would work great!

[@Karmashia]

Currently running 31's on my XJ without a airing up solution, have to stop at a local gas station to air up. Would love to be added to the drawing for the compressor! Thanks and keep the great vids coming!

[@michaelcraddock9905]

Put my name in the hat. Great intro - little extra free time these days eh?

[@stewartj3407]

I have the single arb and 35’s. Never timed it but I’d say it’s about 15 minutes for all tires, I’ve learned to use that time efficiently, putting sway bars back on, checking under the Jeep, putting straps and shackles away, and straighten out the winch if I used it. I actually like taking that time before getting in the road.

[@canonphoto]

VIAIR 400P-Portable-Compressor is a great compressor, I use it for 35’s and it’s pretty quick and quiet.

[@trishalouonthedriveway6027]

Great Video Today, Ben and Cassie 😁

[@RileyB455]

Have a relatively stock TJ. Changing out the tires that came on the Jeep with a set of A/Ts that should be in on Monday. That compressor would be great to have in the Jeep while at college.

[@whiskeypete88]

Would love this compressor hitting Rausch creek for my first time on Saturday and I’m running 35s I actually just posted on your Facebook group. I work at a dealership and had my low tire light pop on today couldn’t find a nail and was like well maybe this will help me out on the trail this weekend just need to air up 😂

[@AnthonyBarbuto]

I’m running on 33’s on my xj I’ve been looking for a air compressor thx for showing which is the best I’d love to win the giveaway too !!

[@jim6682]

The engine should be running while operating the compressor. The loss of voltage makes the compressor run much hotter not to mention wearing down your battery.

[@Jony1660]

Also for the cheaper air compressors most of them work better if you start it up before hooking it up to your tire. I don't exactly know why but in the past I've blown fuses in these cheap compressors because of not starting it then hooking it up.

[@Tommypollock]

As voltage drops, amperage draw increases.

[@jessedarling9875]

I use a smittybilt portable with 35s been using it for a few years now. Wish I had something faster but it has done good.

[@davidyergensen4509]

It's probably too late to enter to win the air compressor , but if not, I'd sure like to enter. I don't have one and could certainly use it with my JKU. Thanks for posting all the great content.

[@SeriousSchitt]

Out on the trail maybe? But after 'Tyre Extinguishers' have hit, all 4 will be down to 0, so thanks for the video. 11 minutes seems a hell of a long time all the same!

[@Mike_E_44]

True story. I have been using the Air Hawk (As seen on TV) with my 35s for the last 3 wheeling trips. I'm getting dual compressors from ARB going on next week because I'm getting 40s and tons and ARB lockers but it has worked ok. 15 minutes on each tire. It gets hot but no smoke so far : )

[@MRCQBSPARTAN]

I want to be selected for the giveaway. I was on the beach yesterday and I saw how many people had compressors but me. I had to drive 6 miles on 10 psi on road and I just felt like the odd man out while everyone was airing up when they got off the beach. Keep up the great videos my dad and I love to watch them every time u guys post. I love how you guys do everything in the driveway. Ur able to show everyone that you can do pretty much do anything with some basic tools and jack stands.

[@tbornman89]

That intro was on point

[@karlbrown3214]

I use a VIAIR 450PA, works great and I built a hose to fill 4 tires, or deflate 4 tires, at one time. From 15 psi to 30 psi takes just a few minutes. I never timed it, but it is a great compressor that has been around a while. It has 100% duty cycle and uses battery clamps so it is portable. At the time it was about $100-$150 cheaper than the ARB. It has an automatic shut off when the hose hits 150 psi, and it also will shut down if the temperature gets too hot. VIAIR is a very good compressor.

[@stephencrandellsr4915]

Love to have the air compressor i have a stock 07 exterra would work good for it Great video on compressors

[@dirtbeard108]

Kilby Onboard air. Engine driven York compressor. Love it.

[@cameronskaggs4188]

Great job

[@auntjanet2346]

"Hey Mum, here's an air compressor. Happy Mother's Day! Sorry it's not that vacuum cleaner you wanted."