OBA Compressor Location Question - H20 issues?

Alright... So I need some input fast... I'm currently working with Sierra Expeditions on installing an ARB Dual Air Compressor into the truck... I wanted to find room under the hood, but thats a no go. Then I wanted it behind the rear seat but was worried about the noise factor. So their solution was to put it underneath mounted to the frame rail... Initially I didn't think anything of it since the ARB system has an intake that can be relocated as necessary but now I am second guessing this route all together... Why? H20!!!

They've already made a pretty bad ass mount/box to protect the compressor but I'm worried about any major water crossing (especially while running a locker - If I ever install one). The box/mount is located just in front of the rear crossmember and is definitely not water tight/proof but it is strong enough to resist minor impacts (plus there are other points on the truck that would hit rocks first). I'm just worried about water... Should I be worried about this location? Am I being overly cautious here? They want to finish up this project tomorrow and I am now questioning their chosen design. See pic...



Anyone ever have issues with these underneath? Fast input would be hugely appreciated...

 

The Slee Off-road mount for the engine bay won't work for you?

http://www.sleeoffroad.com/products/products_air.htm

 

Nope... CAI in the way and no access to the PS Fluid.

 

All I could find is ARB states they are sealed for moisture and dust resistance. Maybe send a e-mail directly to ARB to see what they recommend.

 

I talked with ARB this morning... It appears a ton of jeep guys have no problem mounting their compressors on the frame rails. The units are designed to put up with the elements (including water submersion and dust/dirt). Between that and the box mount that SE made for me I've decided to stick with the location for now. Hell, it's got a 3 year warrantee so by then I'll put it through plenty of abuse to see how well it holds up. Now my only obstacle is making a Pelfreybilt Rear Skid fit down the road... Haha

 

May work, but personally no way in hell Id' put my compressor, a $500 one at that, down there.

 

Couldn't you build a bolted and locked box with an intake port and mount it in the bed? Wire a small fan in line inside the box so it kicks on when the compressor does to keep temps down. Sure beats putting it in an area that will always be exposed to every element the underside of the truck is.

How does an air compressor work if underwater and you need to lock up the axles?

 

According to ARB they say I dont need to worry about submersion, mud build up, etc... I guess jeep guys mount to the frame rails all the time.

It's got a 3 year warrantee so I'll have plenty of time to put it to the test...

As for mounting it in my bed... My rack system has reduced my available space enough, so I'm trying to keep as little out of the bed space as I can.

 

Are you using the air compressor for air lockers? Just curious because you said you didn't want to put it in the cab because of the noise.

I just got the same air compressor and I plan on mounting it behind the back seat specifically to protect it from the elements. I'll only be using it for airing back up though.

 

I mounted mine behind the rear driver side seat. Its loud when filling up tires, but you don't sit in the cab while you fill them up. If you have lockers I don't think it really turns on much at all once its filled. Maybe every now and then for a quick couple seconds.

 

Any pics of yours mounted? I was going to fab up some type of molle panel to mount the compressor to.

 

Updated the original post sorry. Basically used Croms write up.

 

I had one of my motors fail in my dual compressor due to moisture, ARB sent me more replacement parts than needed, no questions asked. Just make sure to relocate the intakes and it should be good.

 

Yeah... it seems the intakes are whats important in terms of the elements (makes sense)... Mine are located somewhere much safer than where the actual compressor is.

 

I am surprised the cooling fan can handle being submerged too, but it has yet to have any issues for me.

 

Just out of curiosity... where is yours located on the truck?

 

I have mine mounted here with TRD intake

 

@HolyHandGrenade has his mounted behind the seat, and can comment on the noise with front and rear lockers

 

Bolted to the underside of the bed just under the bed outlet. I will probably relocate to the engine bay though, to protect it more, prevent Diff oil from getting to the locker manifold switch thing, etc.

 

I am mounting mine where @SjTacoSharks has his.

I wouldn't ever mount it down below like that, id be too afraid of it sucking in water and maybe even the slimmest possibility of it sucking into your differential if you are running lockers - Probably minimal, but I still wouldn't risk it.

You can also mount it where @THE CALICO mounted it - between the actual bed and the bed sides, above the cubbie.