Best Off-road Air Compressor MODS.
Today we are going to modify our Maxi trac Off-road air compressor! These NAPA Maxi trac compressors are fast and cheap but they really need help. With a little bit of elbow grease and some cheap parts from Harbor Freight I think we can make giant improvements. By the way, I have found that a lot of these same ideas could be used on the Smitty Built 2781 so if you have another type of tire filler/on board air compressor, these ideas might be useful!
If you liked this one and you want to see a part two, let me know in the comments 👍. I definitely plan on continuing to modify this compressor but if it's not a topic you are interested in then I won't turn it into a video.
Thanks for watching!
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Definitely need a second episode. I was super impressed with my compressor in stock configuration, but now I’m going to have to step up my game.
I use vaccuum grease for these types of applications, the low vapor pressure keeps it from volatalizing when your pump gets hot and gunking up system
Great suggestion thank you!
@@DirtLifestyle arb are sht, expensive crap... i have one of those comps, here in aus, called thumper.black.. 300lt. its hooked up to my f250, s/duty, air bags, & 2 fire extinguishers. with a cut off valve, say 120-180.o/c. pumps up my 35,s in 5 mins. i still think the power tank is best. will get one soon. trail recon, had 2 arb,s junk..[ i anodize sht blue, & it sells real fast.]. 62 f100 4x4,352 fe.. 75 cut swb highboy 4w disc,5 sp.. 82 bronc sas.. 02 s/duty, 4.2tdi, brazilian. &, a 73 chall. r/t. oh,,& 2 cats.. you want a laugh,,watch inskip beach 4x4.. might of said before...im 63,,wait till you......????????..............forget things....................
@@DirtLifestyle those CE, air switches, i been thru 5 of them, i switched them from the comp. to the air tank. 1 still blew, lasted 4 mins. the air line hole upgrade is good idea. im still using the airbag lines to the outlet. 6mm o/d. great vid.. i allways think of an 8cfm , 240 v, comp, hooked to an inverter. or,,110, to you..
@@DirtLifestyle do a vid on hooking it to 2. 5 gal tanks. oh,forgot,, you only have a toyota,,no room...nice paint job..lol...ausie sarcasm..ish..
Anderson plugs - so the cable could also be used as batt start leads etc
Great video! I appreciate your desire to tweak and improve EVERYTHING, not just stick to one area of focus
Great job on the upgrades, thanks for the ideas. Let’s see part 2 for sure. Have fun camping. Thanks for sharing and stay safe. Ken
This was really cool. As always you put out content that makes me think about my setup and how I can make things more functional. Can’t wait for part 2!!
So we I've watched this 3 times now. Once by myself and twice with the boys. You blown their minds removing the computer board and operating it with the switch and solenoid. Part 2 should definitely include a white board of the wiring. Still trying to get the younger one to equivocate a relay to a solenoid.
This build/modification is awesome! I definitely like the idea of improving a product that will extend its life. Definitely a great video Nate!!
Very helpful. Never realized could do mods like this & you plan it so well. Also great job explaining why you're modding
I did something similar with a smaller hf compressor and was planning on doing similar mods on this exact one. Love this type of versatility.
This was cool, Nate. Would definitely love to see more of this kind of tinkering/tweaking/modding content.
Love these videos! It’s great to see alternative DIY videos. Not everyone has $500+ to spend on an ARB.
Between this and the on board air in the disco, I have a plan for my own WK2 air system. Thanks for the ideas, knowledge, and motivation. You inspire all of us.
Since you're using a manifold that stays under pressure, I'd suggest installing a check valve into the supply line as the big compressors have. This will remove the constant pressure on the pistons at startup.
The startup pressure is less of an issue with this type of motor, and with such a short output pipe the check valve will do very little for startup pressure anyway.
@@DonziGT230 there is usually a bleeder valve to clear the compressed air in the line that accompanies that check valve.
@@xjinit Yes, it's part of the pressure switch used on 'standard' compressors, and it'll do very little for this setup.
@@DonziGT230 can you elaborate?
@@xjinit The pipe is very short/small volume and this compressor moves a large volume of air so it'll pressurize very quickly therefore be of very little benefit. The pipe on a home compressor is typically much longer and the compressors are lower volume so it'll take several strokes to pressurize the pipe. Also, this type of motor isn't effected by startup torque like the motors used in home compressors which have a very hard time with startup. One of those without the pressure release often won't be able to get up to speed, it'll try 'till it burns up unless it has an overload breaker to protect it. I don't know of any 12v compressor that has a pressure relief and they all do fine, even those without a check valve.
Yes PLEASE do a second episode. I bought this compressor and have loved it but I could tell it needed a little help to be solid. I can't wait to follow your video step by step this weekend. Thank you for all the great tutorials and project ideas.
Just got myself the exact same one and planning on making upgrades to it, definitely didn't think of those. Thanks! Awesome info.
When I was researching rebuilding my "Titan" branded compressor (physically identical to the larger smittybilt unit), smittybilt owners were recommending SuperLube with PTFE for the cylinder.
Never use petroleum-based products- they degrade the seals. Silicone grease is the way to go as others have noted. Mod looks great!
use comprssor lube.
If petroleum products degrade seals, we wouldn't put petrolatum, or hydraulic fluid, or various oils, or fuel, on every single rubber packing, seal, gasket and o-ring on a helicopter. In 40 years as a professional mechanic, ranging from heavy equipment to countless aircraft, I can count on one hand the times where a non-petroleum based lubricant is called for by a manufacturer or technical specifications.
@@jethro9341 Depends on what the seal is made out of and since there's no money in using seals that resist oil in a part that has no oil, companies dont do it.
I respectfully disagree. I used to be an industrial air compressor mechanic. I've worked on just about every style of compressor out there and units up to 150HP that were the size of pickup trucks. We used petroleum based lubricants on almost all seals, unless otherwise noted on the seal manufacturer's recommendations, which was practically never.
@@russellv6234 Your standard run of the mill seals, packings, o-rings, are fine with petroleum based products. The extra cost to a manufacturer would be a specialty seal that doesn't jive with petroleum products.
I love it brother ‼️💪 Your the man ‼️ So smart 💪 Please do a part 2 on THIS... I can't wait to see the final product bro 💪‼️
I did some of those things to mine when I got mine. Went up to 1/4” npt from the 1/8” that was on there originally. Secondly added a pressure regulator. Reason is the compressor can output 150, while normal air tanks are rated for 100. So regulator is set below 100 for tank safety. Ditched the spring clamps for the battery connection in favor of adding 2 gauge ran up to the front, through a 200 amp continuous load relay, which is switched through my SPod. It works, and fills itself and my tank from dead flat to 100psi in 1 minute. Single ARB used to take 3, plus complicated wiring.
part 2 of the Frankenstein pump please
I'd love to see some more done with this. Porting the heads, fitting it into the can, anything.
Definitely a cool video. 100% want to see more videos about your compressor and how you adapt it to a tank.
Toss a pressure regulator and gauge in front of your air hose quick connect. This allows you to set your target pressure on the regulator, connect the hose to your tire and just let it run until the pressure switch cuts power. No need to babysit it or keep checking pressures as you go.
Hello I can't find one
Great job on the editing of the Timelapse portion 🤙🏼 I have the MorrFlate model. Always good to see what can be improved if that one offers similar build quality.
Great mod, you won't look back, I did this about 1 year ago increase fitting to 1/4 + update hoses and cable. Mine is permanently mounted behind back seats with a 12v boat blower blowing across it to keep it running cool. Then made my own twin tyre inflare deflation kit and it's quicker than a ARB DUEL 😀
Nice project. If you added power connectors like the ones on winches, the cables could be used as booster cables and to power the compressor. This way perhaps the compressor could fit in an ammo can. Good job!
Yes! Like the I believe their called “Anderson Plugs” used on Tow Trucks for their booster cables. Tow trucks never have to pop the hood they just plug in the cables… and those plugs I know for a fact can be ordered on Amazon.
I had the same idea, having the connectors also allows the cables and compressor to be stored separately and makes untangling cables easier.
I’ve almost done away w/ my booster cables, got one of those small (but powerful) boost packs, ABSOLUTELY LOVE THAT THING!! I tested it out of box by totally disconnecting my battery and jumping my truck straight off the pack several times… works great, & have used it several times! Keep my cables as a contingency just incase. But I plan on getting the plugs and wiring to install one on both the front & back of my truck for easy access, and they can also be used for hooking up accessories when needed.
I have them on the front and rear of my rig (anderson connectors) i use them for my winch, jumper cables, and compressor, very handy
@@MinimaDomum I have the same set-up, but only at the rear. The inflation hose reaches all tyres on the Cruzer, and the 4 tyres on the caravan (but not the spare - I can check that when it's fitted.) I have an air line ✈ fitting on the compressor, but I'm really impressed with that simple idea for a manifold. That's next. 🙃
Please do a part two. Some of your truck videos are exceeding my skills and budget. This is within my abilities (I could even repair the circuit on board but eliminating it is a reasonable plan).
So awesome. Yea dude, MORE FAB!!! This would play well into that video where you made the manifold you tucked into the front bumper that was for suspension on the Disco (if I remember correctly). So yea man, PLEASE more of this! The fact you're taking PC boards and replacing them with simple switches is so badass. Gotta say, I've been disappointed with the "heros" I've chosen over the past 50 years, but you're the best one in the past couple decades. Rock on man. I hope to shake your hand some day.
It would have been great to see metrics of before and after the rebuild. - 15 to 40psi tire inflation time difference, etc. Great tips for any mass produced air compressor! 1. Wiring. 2. Port upgrades
Great video Nate. This mods format is great and I think it has great potential for many other areas (how to do coilovers on the cheap, hydraulic brake mods, hydraulic steering mods etc.)
Yes definitely keen to see more mods for these compressors please.
I will use PM600 "military grease", I've been finding it pretty useful on the truck, as it has good temperature characteristics as a dynamic lubricant, and is also designated as a liquid o-ring.
Thank you for the video. I have one sitting on the bench thinking about extending power to the rear of my Bronco so I did not have to lift the hood each time I wanted to use the compressor. You are correct, the power leads are inadequate for a 90A load.
Great work on this! I have heard of a bunch of these burning out! Especially running more than one vehicle. I run a more flate to do all 4 tires at once and that keeps the heat down. They also have the same compressor at Summit OffRoad. I did a video on it a year or so ago.
Definitely in for part 2. Lots of potential here
Definitely need a part 2!
Glad to see you used blue monster teflon tape! In my personal opinion it’s the best you can get for most applications.
I was just trying to piece together what I’m needing for this. Plus I have Multiple rigs and can’t build a compressor in each one. So this is awesome for a good compressor set up to move from vehicle to vehicle for different trips. Also go in my construction truck to blow myself off before heading home to work.
Outstanding! I mentioned on IG that I have been thinking of making many of the same mods to my Napa compressor. Picked it up early 2021 and have been happy but knew it was capable of more. I was planning on the 200amp relay and ditching the electronics because I want to be able to mount this are the rear of my 4Runner along with a tank since there's no long a spare tire back there. I knew the electronics were not going to withstand exposure. I would have recommended not using the ammo can, at least not for mounting. These things get hot and need the air ventilation to keep cool. It's fine for transport and storage, but not for use, at least not without modding the ammo can (vents, maybe even a couple 120mm fans.... hmmm....) Thanks for the video, pretty much confirmed that what I was thinking about will be suitable. Plus you gave me a couple other ideas (hard line, etc)
I would love to see a digital electronic pressure switch that you could set the pressure on to auto shut off at desired pressure
Part two sir We love this small tinkering stuff
Hell yeah we wanna see more! Nice work.
Nice video man. Just the content us regular diy’ers want!
Yes Part 2 please
What a fun little project...hell yeah, I'd like to see a part two, three, and so on.
Great job, appreciate it, keep it up the amazing work.
Great Video! I would've loved to see a before and after test for temperatures and CFM output.
Glad to see you up and well after round 2 of covid!
Part 2 for sure. I want to have a tank on mine so I can use it for air horns... keep up the good work sir.
Waiting for part 2 and your review on how the changes worked!
FINALLY!!! Someone who knows to thread teflon tape on a fitting backwards!!!!!! That would drive my brother crazy when he worked in the geothermal field.
One of if not the best compressor mod videos on the net.
Part 2 please. Thanks Nate.
Awesome video with good info. I love tinkering and modding things like compressors so this is right up my alley
Yes a Part 2 of this mod would be appreciated! I LOVE your Fab vids! Those interest me the MOST… I’m not as skilled as you, especially since I don’t have the shop space or tools that you have so that limits me. But I can do some intermediate level fab work.
Yes to part 2.
I would love to see a part 2 on this and I would also like to see a more detailed explanation of the wiring on the dual compressor set up on the discovery. Maybe even a comparison of the 2 systems I have a Viair OBA setup on my truck that is great but I would love to get a faster compressor
Definitely would like to see the part 2!
I like it, great job. I think I would use a Anderson connector for the jumper cables to compressor. I think I would use Synthetic grease I use on Poly bushings.
Yes please part 2!!!
I'd love to see a second episode, for sure! Once you make your ultimate, decked out version of this compressor, and if you can find more of these, might be an awesome thing for a giveaway? 🤔
Great video bro!! I love seeing stuff like this 👍👍
That Wrap or paint job on that Taco is dope
Yes part 2 would be great!
Napa was continually out of stock until I noticed a different Napa store that had a link to have it shipped to this store. So I did and picked it up a day later. So glad I found out that little option. So when on their site scroll to different stores and see if there’s the option to have it delivered to that store.
I like that you mix in these non vehicle mods and builds with the rest of the content.
If you want to add a "homemade tank" you could get whatever length of 4" copper tube and silver solder caps on with any connection size you want. It would help cool the air even more, especially it there is air flow. It isn't much storage but for this application more than enough. Having been in the compressed air industry for nearly 40 years, this is a great product for the price. Excellent mods done with the 1/8" to 1/4" size upgrade being understated in it's value. That will also help reduce heat load.
Excellent video. Part 2, add the tank!
As always, great vids and these little cheap mods are some of my favourites!
Def need a part 2 😎
Anderson connector for this would be a good option too. Amazon sells jumper cables with Anderson connectors; so easy to keep mobile if you throw it in the truck or off road trailer.
Love the ammo can idea
Did the same to mine. Also aded tank and remote control. It started to leak back through the head gasket and ruened them. Made new ones from o ring material and added a one way valve to stop it from happening again.
THANK YOU! I'll probably build the same thing! But I have a problem with moisture freezing in the lines when airing up in the winter.
thank you for shaving the great video lot of great detail in your video from Australia
Love all the content Nate. Cheers brother
Awesome additions. I put Anderson plugs on my compressors to eliminate the alligator clips
I like what you’re doing with that compressor. Looking forward to what else you do with it!
You sir are an artist! I would have never thought to do this. I don’t own this compressor but enjoyed watching a master at work.
Definitely need a part 2 video
Great video..I have one mounted under the hood of my 4r. Will definitely be making those mods.
really good production quality well done .................
Great information and upgrades , Thank you
Yes part 2 please.
I love the Compressor mods! I have a '79 JC-7 with an AC compressor conversion and an '07 JK with twin ARBs. On the KJ I connected 3 Ts together. This give me an input and 2 outputs on the driver side and 2 outputs on the passenger side (This is under the back seat). My input hose is long enough to reach my ARBs, and my outlets are long enough to reach both sides of the seat. I also have cut a 25' air hose into 6, 50" pieces (with ends) These will Velcro together and lay nicely under the back seat. It takes 2 pieces to reach the front, and one to reach the rear. I've also put a ball valve and a pressure gauge on my input line so that when I close the valve it show the pressure in the tires. I can inflate/deflate all 4 of my tires at once, or I can connect the pieces and make a 25 foot hose is someone else need air. :) Keep up the good work!
I think this is a brilliant idea. I've never considered any improvements to my compressor (different type), but the issues you fixed an yours are most likely common to all lower budget compact compressors. Could you post a wiring diagram for the switch and relay? Thanks!
Brilliant work. A comparison before and after would be awesome to see too. Great work nate. I have the same which I got from eBay.
Loving the disco in the ba k mate and excellent video on the diy
Love it! The fact that you had to simplify the device to make it more reliable says a lot about where we are in this world today. I swear if I had the capital I would start a company that did exactly this. Imagine the possibilities!
It's about cost. That PCB and components cost a few dollars to make. The solenoid he added was probably $10-30, and the pressure switch was probably around the same cost. So adding $20-40 or more in build cost to sell these at only $150 really dents the profits. You see how much work he had to do to it to make it a lot more robust, yet the build quality for the remaining parts can still be questionable.
Unreal. Gonna do this to mine here in Aus. Keep up the good work🤘
A good amount of water is compressed out of the air even with these small air compressors. My current project is adding water separators to my twin compressors so I am not continuously pumping water into my tires when airing up. It might be something worth researching for you.
Waiting on part two. Still learning mainly electrical so itd be nice for an update and maybe a quick walkthrough of how you did the things you did. KZhead is my school now.
I have the single cylinder version of this. Had to replace the relay, reseal all connections, and replace one of the exhaust port orings. Pretty sure the piston ring is teflon so I lubed it with triflow teflon grease. - 120 amp circuit breaker may be a good idea. Will also function as a switch so you don't have sparks when hooking up the battery clamps. - There are tons of these on alibaba/aliexpress. Shipping will be slower but the price is much lower.
Hell yeah, do a part 2
Cool project! I'm interested in more upgrades for sure!
This is awesome, I'd like to have something like that to use for airbags, train horns, and onboard air.
cool video and good timing for me I was just looking at some of these little compressors the other day thinking about getting one soon.
Fantastic job. One thing that I would add, is an inline circuit breaker or fuse for the power. It's always wise to have a protective fuse or breaker for electric accessories. Like a 125A or so size. I too would like to know where to buy these compressors! I found out about them just after they became out of stock at Napa.
Very interesting, I have no idea what I would use that for, but I would like to see more videos about it.