I've been reading that I shouldn't have an air system that doubles for the tires and lockers. Is this true? Why would arb have this model if it wasn't? http://www.northridge4x4.com/arb-jee...t-package?#tab

To those of you running arbs I'd like to get your input on this.

 

Link to that article ?

It depends on which ARB compressor you choose.
Lockers need much less air flow than tires. The ARB compressor made specifically for the lockers is too weak for tires.
On the other hand, a twin-head ARB compressor inflates even large tires pretty quick, and easily controls the lockers.

 

Arb makes like 3 different vehicle mounted versions. The twin compressor is the Mac daddy version, the one I posted a link to Is a step below which is the one I'm more interested in purchasing. Is it a good idea to use these types to run lockers and air tires back up when I need to? They are advertised as being designed to do both. What I've read just comes from Internet searching the forums and most say you shouldn't have an air system to run both. Now they do sell a smaller compressor that is dedicated for locker activation only and I understand that that compressor should not be used for filling tires. I am not talking about using that type for double duty. Maybe what I've been reading is people wanting to do that rather than step up to a larger compressor?

 

I've used that same setup to run lockers and then air up 37's at the end of the day. It takes a few minutes per tire and the compressor gets overly hot. It will work but I would recommend getting the twin to do both or have a co2 system to fill tires.

 

I see no reason why using such a good twin head compressor would pose a problem in dual use.
On my previous Jeep, I had a tween head ARB which was used for both an air springs suspension and for inflating the tires.
As long as all the connections are sealed, the air pipes are of good quality, and pipes are protected from hot parts and debris under the Jeep, there should be no problem.
I had all the pipes that were under the Jeep covered with thermal & abrasion protective sleeves.

 

I think that the main concern some people might have is just over-use of the system. For most of us, these compressors are fine for the occasional locker use and tire refill. If/when you get to the point of constant locker use on the trail + daily fills of large tires, running separate systems, or at least having a backup air source, would be a good thing.

I have been running that arb compressor kit for a few years now with no issues. I do take a small backup compressor, but have never needed it. (I am far from a hard-core wheeler, though. Only occasional need for the lockers, and rarely drop the psi down low so usually just a 5-10 psi fill per tire)

 

I have years of experience with 3 ARB twin-heads (my previous Jeep, current Jeep, and my sons' rig). Never had a problem, never heard about a problem with ARB from fellow Jeepers.

The one thing that should be added is a one-way valve between the compressor and the external air tank (always recommended to have), otherwise air slowly leaks back through the compressor.