ARB Air Compressor - Under Hood Install

Hey there, Tacoma World family, first post here for me! I recently purchased an ARB on-board air compressor for my 2017 Tacoma and thought I'd share my install, as I have not seen it mounted like this before. I know there are a lot of solutions already out there (Slee bracket, etc.) but I've got all the ABS junk on the passenger side and I didn't want to be covering up my fuse box on the driver side. I also just spent $350 on a compressor and didn't want to drop another $150-$200 on mounting. I also only have access to very basic tools. So, I did some thinking, did some drinking, and I came up with a pretty neat, sturdy solution at a fraction of the price (approx. $85)...



Here is what I did... I used the existing threaded studs for the ABS unit to create standoffs that would create a raised platform for the air compressor.



I found these hex adapters to go from female metric to female standard. I then used standard 8-inch all-treads to create the standoffs. I bought all of the hardware off of McMaster-Carr, all stainless.



For the mounting surface, I went to my local metal supply and bought a 12"x12" piece of 16-gauge steel. I used cardboard to make a template of the the area then used a cutting wheel and vice to make the base. I then measured out the standoffs to drill the holes. As you can see, I also used an existing threaded hole to mount the bracket to the sidewall for additional support.



I then placed the compressor on the base to see where I wanted to mount it so it wouldn't interfere with anything. I also cut out a spot where I wanted to mount the switch.



I mounted everything up and installed it just to make sure it fit. I was worried about the hood damaging the solenoid and wires, so I bought a 90-degree elbow so it would clear. I then cut the small air compressor bolts underneath so they wouldn't hit the ABS unit. I also cut the two front all-threads so they weren't so tall. I then took everything back out and hit the bracket with the ole rattle can for a cleaner look and to prevent rusting (I live by the coast).


I gave it the ole wiggle test and it seems pretty solid. I'll have to report back after I hit some trails. I'm no metal fabricator, but it was a fun project and I'm pretty stoked on the results. Let me know if you have any questions or want specific part numbers for the hardware, would be happy to share and save you some $$$.

 

Nice! Love it when that happens. When u just keep mulling it over in your head till it finally clicks. Hope you saved that cardboard template. All the sport guys are gonna ask you for it lol.

 

Also, if u really wanna spruce it up, add edge trim to the visible areas for a more pro look.

 

Oh I like the sound of that!

 

Welcome to TW... clean install you did there.
As a suggestion, cut the all-thread down to the top of the nut, remove nut and replace with a stainless acorn nut.
This way you won't slice an arm or digit while in there.
I did this to my battery hold down after I cut myself while cleaning.

 

Oooo I like that, thanks for the suggestion. I'll have to make sure I put something up so I don't scuff my compressor again *rolls eyes*

 

That looks really good! Great job!

 

Here is how I mounted the 'twins':

 

Oh the twins are looking real nice! Also, how is it so clean under your hood? I'm feeling very self conscious now about how dirty my truck is lol

 

Another suggestion?...
Wire the switch to the cab and run the air hose connection to the filler neck area. It stays clean, the air hose is long enough to reach all 4 corners and you won't have to lift the hood.
Here is what I did:

 

That location looks cool AF! I like the idea of keeping the quick release clean.

 

Welcome to TW! Nice DIY write up!!

 

nice install!

i'd be interested in the part number for those thread extensions. thinking i'm going to do something with that space later as well

 

Nice set up. I want this.

 

Can we get the hardware part numbers? thanks.

 

Very cool! It's always better if you can DIY.
I'm sure lots of members are going to want the part numbers

 

This makes me want to go pop my hood and figure out my solution for my twin compressor that I have put off for 3 months. Does the 16 gauge hold up well? The thinner I keep it the easier to manipulate with my basic tools.

 

Question: what’s the difference between the single and the twin compressor? Can you air up your tires ok with the single? I don’t have lockers on my truck…wondering if I should go with the single over the twin? Thanks! Nice set up!

 

How long of a line did you need to route to that location? And did you use a stainless steel braided line? I just installed a compressor in my 1st gen and was thinking of doing something similar. Looks like a very practical setup for airing up.

 

Great write-up. I've been thinking about putting one over there and trying to figure out how to set that up. I was kind of bouncing around your solution but seeing it actually done and the work you put into it I think is what I need to go ahead and get it done.