ARB compressor add on

The ARB cuts off at 100psi -I use a home made pvc tank in the bull bar to increase capacity for extended blow etc.....has been working fine.....I just turn it on, let it run up to 100 and auto switch off....then I use the air as I work my project.....had just enough blow to run a spray gun for the the trailer re-coat.

Baz,
You won't have any worries with that idea at all. However, the ARB compressors come in 2 different versions as far as I know. The "up-market" version is supplied with a cut-out switch set at around 100psi. This unit is designed for use with their Air Lockers etc. The cheaper version uses the same compressor, but only has an outlet for inflating tyres etc and I don't believe it has a cut-off switch. In any case you can buy a switch from them (not sure of $$$$$) and fit it yourself. Very simple.
I'm still not convinced the idea of the PVC tube is a good idea and reckon you're on the money with an old fire extinguisher. I have a purpose built 3ltr tank and would like to get a bigger one like yours eventually. I keep my air system pumped up 24/7, but have fitted a safety relief valve etc. I use it for a set of large air horns on roof-rack as well as air locker and front and rear mounted RYCO outlets for tyre inflation etc. However, I replaced my old ARB compressor with a Bushranger....4 times faster.
Cheers,
Roachie

Baz,
I have used the old fire extinguster as a air tank and has worked fine. The only thing I did was to make a manifold out of a 25mm soild square block of aluminium. Because there is only one hole in the top of the fire extinguisher and I wanted provision for an inlet, a pressure switch, and two outlets, I drilled and taped holes that allowed for these fittings. I was not useing a ARB compressor so a externial pressure switch was required. The manifold scewed to the top of the fire extingusher and the compressor pumped the air in from the ead and the outlets were on the side of the manifold. A bit of drilling and tapping but it worked fine. I am a toolmaker so the drilling and tapping didn't worry me.

Wayne

I have a Fire Extinguisher as a tank also.

You'll need an Pressure Switch, abotu $40 from ARB.

http://www.offroader.com.au/airfitting/airfitting.html

I just put a 3/8" BSP Quick connect in the threaded section the hose was in and inflate the tank using a normal tyre inflator to the tyre valve. Once i mount it permanently i will replace this with a permanent 1/8" BSP Barb and plumb it permanently. Works a treat and saves a fair bit of time having the 9 litres @ 100psi to start with, the first 2 tyres are fairly fast, the last 2 about as fast as normal, but i have my spare tyre @ 60 psi and this soon gets the front 2 tyres up to 35psi in seconds.

Steve

Thank's Wayne, Roachie and Steve, my extinguisher is the type that already has a filler valve, opposite side of charge gauge, so that part is ok, have to buy a cut off switch mine does'nt have one, my next job is to fit a pressure gauge to the extinguisher, hopefully i can find one to fit where the charge gauge is, i have a couple lying around, thanks again fella's.

Baz.

Hello Baz, Sounds like a good idea but what is the extinguisher rated to as far as pressure is concerned. I see from some of the replys that the cut off switch is 100psi which for a non technical person such as me sounds like a lot. can you get these things pressure tested? I would hate for one to bang and have the valve take off like a bullet.
I would be getting it tested before use just in case, better to be safe than sorry.

Regards

Mark

I am very interested in fitting a modified fire extinguisher as an air storage vessel.
Could someone with first hand experience recommend what size & type, ( i note that Wayne has used an old stored water ext.) would be most suitable for the job and not be compromised by it's size or weight.
Where would i get a hold of one in the Sydney area and what cost ?

Baz,
If you're considering using anything other than an engineered air receiver then you really to need to be aware of the potential consequences. I've spent several decades in the fluid power industry (hydraulics & pneumatics) and seen numerous "nifty" ideas that end up maiming or killing some poor bugger.
For starters have a look at these links:

http://www.safetyline.wa.gov.au/pagebin/pg000382.htm

http://www.workcover.vic.gov.au/dir090%5Cvwa%5Calerts.nsf/0/ABE4E262B9DAD60BCA256D79008033FF?OpenDocument

The are quite a few proprietary receivers on the market or you can make one from the approporiate rated pipe but make sure you've got it well figured.
Regards,
K