I would absolutely trust even a small compressor like the Viair 88p to do the job of powering ARB just as well as the similar size ARB compressor does that their basic kit includes. The 88p's max pressure is 120 psi which it would achieve very quickly in the small volume made up by the air line and the ARB air locker. https://www.viaircorp.com/portables/88p
Now that I think about it more, a skinny road bike tire is typically filled to 110-120psi. Any compressor that can fill a bicycle tire can power an ARB.
That's a great analogy. I used to ride road bikes and usually ran 120 psi which I was able to achieve with a small hand pump.
Consider that one common reason for a broken axle shaft is from it spinning when open/unlocked and then suddenly finding traction. That's one reason I leave at least my rear locker on most of the time when offroad.
A Detroit Truetrac is not a locker but it costs about the same as a Detroit Locker, not to mention a Detroit Truetrac is more expensive than lunchbox lockers are. That said, it depends on what type of snow conditions you're talking about when deciding whether to use a locker. If you will be wheeling on icy trails, then a Detroit Truetrac limited slip differential is the best choice. But if you'll be in deep snow, then a locker is better. Lockers are generally the best way to go for offroad since limited slip differentials barely, if at all, help in most offroad situations. But if you plan to be on ice whether it's on an icy road or an ice-covered trail, a Detroit Truetrac would be the best choice.
I get it. It's hard to compare our wheeling locations. When turning while locked I agree that it widens your turn radius. This can be a disadvantage if you are on a steep decline like we are on one trail we run called T-Rex where at the base of that descent the trail turns about 130*. Even open we have to back up at least twice to make the turn, and not without some unfortunate flare-to-rock contact on occasion. It does put the manual driver to the test. But usually I'd just prefer to have them on since most turns are not that tight. It's mainly the front locker that limits turn radius, so either a selectable or a lunchbox can be disengaged, the latter by slipping into 2wd momentarily.
Didn't I read this is near Ouray? We're heading up there around April 24, 2019, I'd like to do Imogene. What passes do you suggest in that area? AT the end of April, of course. I noticed a lot of stuff is probably still closed till later in MayI imagine trying to run Black Bear Pass while locked is a good way to get yourself killed.
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I imagine trying to run Black Bear Pass while locked is a good way to get yourself killed.
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It's mostly psychological. My first time through, I was able to get all the turns done without ever backing up. The second time, I had to make a few maneuvers that put the front tire right on the edge. Beginner's luck.I get that, and think these things are unique to the operator and the environment he’s in. I lean pretty conservative, when I’m on anything but a flat dirt connecting trail I’m moving low & slow & when I feel spin I’ll hit the clutch & kill the torque to eliminate any potential shock load that might result from sudden traction, then I figure out what the problem is & go from there. At the other end of the spectrum is the guy that thinks the answer to all ills is to mash the pedal on the right, I swear sometimes I get chest pains watching those guys.
that looks simply terrifying
that looks simply terrifying