2 Best Tools For Inflating Off Road Tires: CO2 vs Compressor (You Need Both)
- Muddy Ruttzz
- Oct 10, 2024
- 7 min read
Updated: Jan 4
Several of my adventure videos start off with me at a off road trailhead airing down my tires. But getting those tires back to road pressures is key, especially on multi-day adventures. What tool and method is best? That depends.
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My Video Compares My Viair 400p Compressor vs CO2 vs On Board Air For Inflating Tires When Off Road
This video addresses a topic that is essential for any off-road enthusiast; airing up your tires after a day on the trails. Compressor vs CO2 for off road portable tire inflation. In the video I show how long they both take to inflate my Toyo Open Country M/Ts. I also show what you get with the Viair 400p and how to build your own CO2 tank setup.
Why Is There A Different Off-Road Tire Pressure For Overlanding Tires Than Highway Pressures?
Lowering tire pressure gets you better traction, smoother ride and less chance of punctures. The tires footprint lengthens creating a larger contact patch. In addition all terrain and mud terrain tires have lugs on the side that are enabled when tire pressure is lowered. How do off road tires work?
Is This The Best Portable Compressor For Overlanding?
My go-to solution for airing up on longer trips, is this trusty VIAIR 400p portable compressor. It's compact, powerful enough to handle my 35s, and runs right off my vehicle's battery. I've had this thing for years, and it's never let me down. Plus, it's way more versatile than some of the other options out there. I also have a CO2 tank. I’ll talk more about that later.
The Viair 400p Auto Shut Off Portable Compressor: Comes With Everything You Need For Off Road Tire Inflation
Here is a list of what is included when you purchase the Viair 400p.
Great carry bag with compartments for everything you need to fill tires.
The Viair 400p with battery leads and simple alligator clips that attach to vehicle battery. It is mounted to a anti vibration base with rubber isolators.
30' long durable coil hose with female quick release pneumatic fittings on each end. It reaches all the tires on my Jeep and trailer.
Inflation gun with gauge. This is a high quality tool all by itself.
Accessories and spare air filters. 3 inflation tips and a Presta valve adapters included.
The Viar is a auto shut off unit but also has a on off switch.
The Following Photos Show The Items Contained In Vair Carry Bag
The bag included in with the Viair 400p has compartments for the compressor and all the parts you will need for inflating tires on the trail.
The 400p has a solid metal base with rubber isolators that soak up the vibration when it is running. Compressor itself is solid all metal construction. Included is a male pneumatic connector and electrical leads that connect it to your vehicles battery.
I can reach all 4 tires on my rig and the 2 tires on my Exventure XV-3 Off Road Trailer with the included 30' long coil hose. Durable and fitted with standard pneumatic fittings. Fittings and hose are very durable.
Viair include a high quality inflation gun with a accurate gauge with the 400p compressor kit. The attached valve locks onto the tires Schrader valve. No having to hold it in place while airing up.
A air filter on the 400p adds to the longevity of this model. It is easily changed and a couple extras are included. There is also a small bag tips for blowing up air mattresses and footballs.
It is rarely needed to touch this switch. The Viair has Auto Shut Off. As soon as it pressurizes it shuts off. When you pull the trigger on the inflation gun it turns on. That is a very handy feature that prevents overheating of the unit.
Powering up the Viair 400p is easy. Open your hood and attach the alligator clips to you vehicles battery and the compressor is ready. Make sure your engine is running so the battery does not get drained and leave you stranded. There is a 40 amp fuse that protects your Viair from overloads and a 1 hour duty cycle.
How Long Does It Take The Viair To Fill Up A Large Off Road Tire Compared To Using A CO2 Tank?
This is a 35” Toyo Open Country M/T that I have aired down from 37 psi to 18psi. In my test it took 2 minutes 8 seconds to inflate it with the Viair 400p. CO2 Tank took 40 seconds. CO2 is fast but on a multi day trip I take the compressor. It offers the advantage of unlimited filling. CO2 can run out on you especially if you did not have the tank refilled.
Related Content
Onboard Air Systems - Are They Worth The Trouble, Expense And Limitations?
Now, I know what some of you are thinking: Why not just get an onboard air system?Well they're expensive, a pain to install, and not easily switched between vehicles. And look at this Ecodiesel motor. Not much room under here and I don’t like the idea of a installing a compressor in the cab of my Jeep. This portable unit gives me the flexibility to use it with any vehicle I own, and it's way easier on the wallet.
Sometimes You Want To Air Up Quickly
But let's be real, sometimes you just want to get aired up quickly, especially after a short day trip to the OHV park. That's where this CO2 tank comes in handy. It inflates my tires in a flash, and it's perfect for those quick trips. You can get a awesome mount like this power tank bracket. Solidly mounting prevents the tank from turning into a missile in a collision.
CO2 Tanks Are Handy Around The Garage And Worth Having For That Reason Only
Running power tools, blowing dust off, and giving a burst of air to seat those stubborn tubeless mountain bike tires. All great reasons for having a CO2 tank setup. You can purchase a really cool premade setup like a Powertank. Also it is easy to DIY your own by purchasing the tank, regulator, hose and inflator. Links below for parts.
Multiple Hose Inflators - Do They Save Time?
I have seen the hose systems guys use to inflate all the tires at once. Those could be used with the Viar 400p. I’m just not convinced they save that much time. Let me know in the comments what you think.
I always Air My Tires Down Off Road: Sometimes I Get Stuck Anyway
I was probably at my usual 18psi here. In sand like this it should probably have been 8 -12 psi.
Conclusion:
Avoid Onboard Air, Invest In A Solid Compressor and a CO2 Tan- Best To Have Both
Ultimately, the best way to air up your tires depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're heading out on a multi-day adventure, a portable compressor like my VIAIR is a reliable and versatile option. For quick trips or garage use, a CO2 tank is a great choice. Just remember, don't get caught up in the hype and overspend on gear you don't need. Keep it simple, keep it practical, and keep exploring!
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✅ - 20lbs CO2 Tank w/Handle (Amazon)
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