Airing down tires.

So today I took my new 3rd gen off roading. I’m new to it so I didn’t air down. I’m pretty sure I should’ve. What do you guys use for airing down and airing back up? And how low should I go? Sorry for my ignorance.

 

I've done plenty of trails without airing down and didn't have any issues. However, when you air down, the ride becomes a little softer and you can roll over rocks and such with (less) worry about causing a puncture. Also increases traction since you now have a wider area.

For airing down, you can use a standard tire pressure gauge. For airing up, I bought a simple little compressor from Costco for like $30. There are some other good portable air compressors out there for < $100, I'm sure lots of folks have recommendations. When you feel like dipping into your pocketbook a bit more, you can look into the on-board air compressors like ARB, but they are substantially more expensive (and rugged).

 

Are you looking for the rules for airing down?

 

Standard air down pressure is 20 to 25
You can go as low as 12 to 15 but risk popping the bead on the tire (meaning it's not punctured just off the rim) and pain to reseal the bead.

 

Thank you, i didn’t know much about it but your response helped me learning more about it. I think I’ll be airing down just to be in the safe side.

 

Airing down on rocky terrain also helps quite a bit from jarring your suspension as well as traction.
Even on loose chunky gravel, it will feel like your in a caddy.

 

Like @JaCado said above, airing down to ~25psi is a safe bet. Anything below 20 and it can get a bit hairy IMO. Lots of videos and information on airing down though; YouTube is a great resource!

 

Some of these guys already have me the info I need. Just wondering what kind of portable compressor to go for.

 

A lot of us use this one
https://www.amazon.com/s/?ie=UTF8&k...sLP1srCpI0ipKpJ9-oinbm5HZyz05HKYaAvPEEALw_wcB

 

Friend had one of those today on the trail. Worked great and aired him up pretty quick, too!

 

I use a VIAR portable 12v compressor. A few to choose from. Works great.

 

Someone mention a cheap compressor above from costco. Probably not unlike the one I use. They are rated pretty high and you can maybe find them at auto parts stores. Not sure If i remember the model but its similiar to this.

http://www.cabelas.com/product/Q-In...4WK5P0RuB9aOmTCpK-gaAkP9EALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds

 

I’m assuming you can also air down with this right?

 

Actually nevermind...its this one. Really good compressor.

https://www.pepboys.com/product/details/9357343/00184

 

This is the one I have: https://www.costco.com/Bon-Aire-12V-Inflator-.product.100339728.html

Not bad for $30 and hasn't crapped out on me yet!

 

just find a way to push the valve stem down to let air out.... stick, rock, etc...and a tire gauge to judge when to stop.

 

I am very particular when airing back up. I like using a mix containing 78% nitrogen.

 

I have one of the arb tools that pulls the stem out for quickly releasing air. Used it once and it shot the stem about 7 feet somewhere off in the gravel.
Took me an hour to find it. lol. I just use a stick or small rock till I can get some practice using it.

 

He's a rookie

 

I just ordered this kit OP. Might be nice to have. I got the single compressor. You also get a small discount on the compressor with this setup.
http://www.rogue-offroad.com/product-p/eettcbm.htm