On Board Air Build

jparker
BSJ 101 Planning Commitee
Posts: 6
Joined: Mon Dec 15, 2014 12:15 am
Jeep Year: 1999
Jeep Model: TJ Wrangler

On Board Air Build

Unread post by jparker »

Hey guys,

I am new around here and fairly new to the jeep spectrum of enthusiasts as a whole. I have been modding my jeep slowly and figured it was time to take a step higher, and actually challenge myself with something other than a bolt on kit. I was thinking on board air would be a great addition to the jeep. I started out thinking that an ARB kit and a tank would be all I need, but upon more research I have read that the engine driven OBA setups are far more "capable" route. So before i just jump in and do this, is there anything on here that you guys could recommend? I've heard that most a/c setups are fairly universal, and i am pretty good with plumbing and how that all works. I was thinking instead of dropping over a grand on buying a kit, that i could salvage an old a/c and buy the extras (Manifold, fittings, etc.) at a hardware store for a fraction of the cost. Any input would be great! Thanks for reading :handgestures-thumbupright:
User avatar
Kurt
BSJ Member
Posts: 4209
Joined: Wed Dec 23, 2009 11:53 am
Jeep Year: 1992
Jeep Model: YJ Wrangler
Real Name: Kurt K.
Location: Pepperell, MA

Re: On Board Air Build

Unread post by Kurt »

DIY!
I've done converted A/C compressor OBA systems on my two Jeeps.
The 1992 YJ was retrofitted with a Sanden compressor from an old XJ.
My 1997 TJ's failing A/C system was retrofitted to be an OBA system.

It's very easy to do. If you can screw fittings together and do some simple wiring you can do it. :)
You can get the in line oiler and coalescing filter at Harbor Freight.

Some pics of the TJ setup...
Coalescing filter, oiler and pressure switch

Image

Image

2.5 gallon tank - helps with speeding airing up and running air tools for trail repairs.
Image


Optional cooler for the compressors output in front of the radiator. (Just a basic tranny cooler that's been re-purposed)
Image
"Build It, Run It, Break It, Improve It, Repeat!"
NEA Treasurer 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020
BSJ Treasurer 2020
jparker
BSJ 101 Planning Commitee
Posts: 6
Joined: Mon Dec 15, 2014 12:15 am
Jeep Year: 1999
Jeep Model: TJ Wrangler

Re: On Board Air Build

Unread post by jparker »

Good help, it sounds like something I will be starting in the next couple weeks. First things first, finding the compressor! Thanks for the input
Post Reply