ENGINE-DRIVEN

OFTEN known as an endless-air set-up, engine-driven compressors aren’t new but are few and far between in the 4x4 world. Much like a typical compressor, they’re a piston inside a cylinder; although, instead of a 12V motor the size of a coke can turning it, you’ve got a 200hp turbo-diesel donk. Mounted to the engine, then driven by a belt, the result is an endless supply of compressed air. As long as the engine is turning, the compressor can be too.

Home-brew options aren’t unusual and typically use a modified AC compressor. It’s a slightly janky method that’ll require external oiling (the AC fluid usually does this job) and then an oil/air separator to not pump the tyres with oil. Aftermarket options with mounting kits offer simpler installation and safer oiling methods.

You need the engine running; although, at 200+L/pm, any 12V compressor that could come close would need the engine, too. Factor in a few internal air-lines and you’ll have an onboard air system that’ll do just about anything you need it to.