2021 Ford Ranger FX4 TRS-3 Project Build


I mounted my Smittybilt 2781 air compressor in the toolbox of the Ranger and then last fall I purchased a 4-tire inflation system at Overland Expo, but I didn't have a way to connect it to my compressor because it uses goofy fittings.

Actually, the Smittybilt doesn't have an on/off pressure switch so it works as an open system and is designed so that the excess air pressure can bleed through it. That's why it doesn't have an air coupler on the black leader hose coming out of the compressor. I've seen people replace the Smittybilt fitting with an air coupler and then proceed to blow the safety relieve valve because the system isn't designed to work that way. In fact, the Smittybilt instructions tell you not to change the fittings because of this very reason.

I chose to add a 90/120 PSI pressure switch to the compressor and then added an air coupler with a dust cover to the face of the toolbox. I then changed the fitting on the yellow polyurethane coiled air hose to a normal air fitting so it will plug into the coupler. Now the compressor cycles on and off and operates like a normal air compressor with normal air fittings so I can plug my 4-tire inflator system into it.

Another note about the hoses; the 2-foot long 1/4-inch black leader hose coming off of the compressor is there to absorb / dissipate heat. Air heats up when you compress it and that hose can get really hot. If you hooked the yellow polyurethane hose straight to the compressor it would eventually soften and fail.

I replaced that 2-foot leader hose with a 3-foot long 3/8-inch leader hose with 1/4-inch fittings. The original hose was showing a lot of wear and had metric fittings. The new hose has 1/4" NPT fittings and the extra length will help absorb some of the heat before it gets to the polyurethane hose.

I did a write up on the mods at:



View attachment 147069
I may eventually do the same thing with my Maddox inflator since it looks to be the same exact pump, just with different lettering and handle color. I have other things I want to to do to the trucks before I make a final decision.
 
I'm running a similar setup. I running a 2.5 gallon tank with a 90-120 12v pressure switch triggering my Viair 100p. I added a pressure regulator on my output. I keep it set at 35lbs. That way I can hook my 4 tire inflator up and walk away. When I hear the compressor kick off, I know my tires are all at 35lbs and my tank is full at 120lbs. My last trip out. For the first time I wasn't the last guy aired up haha. Looks good Jim. Can't wait to see it in person.
 
Last edited:

Sponsored Ad

America 250

Featured Rangers

Want to see your truck here? Share your photos and details in the forum.

TRS Latest Video

Official TRS Merchandise

Follow TRS On Instagram


Product Suggestions

Back
Top