OBA/Masterflow MF1050

[flukinuki]

After reading alot about these Masterflow/superflow compressors I decided to pick one up. Great little unit. I'd like to permanately mount it in my 08 JK. I've searched the net and can't really find any good info. I'd really like to mount it in the engine compartment but there doesn't seem to be much space. It looks like I could cram it in between the battery and the air box, after relocating a large wiring harness, but it still doesn't leave alot of room for the air fittings. Also, I'm concerned about the heat building up in the tight space.

The 2nd option I can think of is to mount it to the passanger side wheel well but I'm not crazy about running 8 guage wire to the back. Let me also add that I'm planning to have it feed a Viair 2.5 gallon tank under the drivers seat, so I would also have to get the air line through the tub to the tank.

I'd like to mount a manifold under the hood with pressire relief valve, pressure switch and guage. I've already got a quick disconnect mounted in the grill. For air line I was planning on using the orange Amflo hose.

Anyone mounted one of these? I really need pics and advice. I want to do this right the first time.

Thanks!

[treeofliberty]

Having personally killed a small, inexpensive portable compressor, I would suggest against hard mounting it under the hood. I had a $100 portable that performed so-so. It was enough to get my tires filled and get me home. I mounted it under the hood, in the open space where the ABS would be. After a couple months and a few uses it started sounding like a jack hammer. The heat had killed it. Your mileage may vary, especially if you don't live in the desert. But these units are not made to take the extreme heat under the hood. Oddly enough, thats the same spot my 4wd shop installed my ARB compressor. It must be more heat tolerant.

I hate giving cautionary advice without an alternate solution. It seems like somewhere in the back is a better choice. Running the 8 gauge wire shouldn't be a problem if you put an inline fuse close to the battery. The most painful part will be the hole in the tub for the air hose. I've drilled 75-100 holes in my rig for various things, so I've become numb to that pain. If you paint the raw metal, and use rubber grommets, you should be fine.

This will sound stupid, but think past this compressor to your next. If you really like this setup, and the airflow starts to get on your nerves, you'll want to upgrade. As you install this one, will it be in a location where you can replace it with something with more air flow? If you decide to go all the way to a York setup, how much of your install will you be able to reuse? Depending on your usage, this swap may never come, but it would be useful to plan ahead. Your tank decision is one step in that direction.

Also, don't expect too much from the tank. I drilled and tapped my rear bumper as an air tank. By my math, it yielded 3.8 gallons of volume, and is pressurized by my York to 150psi. When I'm filling my tires after a trail, the compressor runs constantly. That tank is good for a good burst, but you won't fill much with just the tank. Heck, that's true of my 15 gallon home compressor tank.

I would also suggest getting a tire repair kit, something like this:



You may never have to use a spair again. You can fix the tire without taking it off the vehicle. They really work well.

Take your time and enjoy the project. Sometimes I get into a rush and forget to savor the moment. When I slow down and focus on craftsmanship, the end result is so much more satisfying. Now, I need to heed my own advice on the next project.

Good luck

[flukinuki]

Thanks for all the information. It's greatly appreciated.

I am trying to plan ahead somewhat. The tsunami compressor is probably a temporary solution, I've come to grips with that. I'd just like to do a clean install with options for future needs.

Do I NEED the tank? Probably not.

Would it work fine as a portable unit? Probably.

I just like the idea of always having it ready to go. I surf fish alot and airing down for beach driving is needed. During the summer the few air pumps are either crowded with people dawdling OR the chucks are broken. Theres also the stinking BITING FLIES! Most of the pumps are set up near the water and the flies can make it a very painful experience. I once decided to skip airing up and drive out to a gas station on the main highway, The pump was broken. Drove up the highway where the speed limit is 55 and people do 70, at 45mph on 16psi. NOT pleasant. Hit 3 more gas stations before I found one that worked, about 40 miles up the road. Never again. The parks also turn the air stations off in the late fall.

Anyway, I'll keep searching and If I get a system together I will post pics.

Thanks again.

[sylvanis]

Depending on how frequently you air up, you may consider a CO2 setup. Sure, you'll pay to fill the tank after 30 or so tire fill ups, but you won't have to wait for that compressor to run and you'll air up in A LOT less time. From the people I spoke to, it cost about $20 to fill up a powertank.

[treeofliberty]

I think the tank is a good idea. It'll buffer the airflow a bit, and keep the compressor from working so hard. Further, it will give you a good blast of air, which would be useful if you need to reseat a bead.

You certainly don't have to sell the concept of OBA. I've been in the same shoes, looking for air to get home. Its always a crap shoot.