If you’ve installed an ARB air compressor but haven’t added a pump up kit, you’re only halfway there.
The ARB pump up kit is what actually connects your compressor to your tyres. Without it, your compressor can’t inflate anything.
It’s a simple piece of gear - but it makes your entire air system usable.
What Is an ARB Pump Up Kit?
An ARB pump up kit typically includes:
- Reinforced air hose
- Tyre chuck
- Inflation fittings
- Pressure gauge (depending on model)
- Quick connect fittings
It’s designed to connect directly to your ARB compressor outlet so you can inflate tyres efficiently and safely.
Think of it as the final link in your inflation system.
Why You Need One
Even if you have an on-board compressor installed, you still need a quality hose and fittings to:
- Reach all four tyres
- Maintain reliable air seal
- Handle pressure safely
- Avoid air leaks
Running mismatched fittings or low-quality hose can:
- Reduce airflow
- Cause leaks
- Increase inflation time
- Lead to frustration on the track
A proper pump up kit ensures consistent performance every time you air up.
When It Becomes More Important
The pump up kit matters even more if:
- You’re running a high-output twin compressor
- You inflate multiple vehicles
- You air up frequently
- You want quick connection and disconnection
A weak hose or poor coupling becomes the bottleneck in your system - even if your compressor is high-performance.
Quick Connect Couplings - Worth It?
Many 4WD owners upgrade to quick connect fittings.
Benefits include:
- Faster hose attachment
- Cleaner setup
- Reduced wear on threaded outlets
- Easy removal when not in use
If you regularly use your compressor, quick connect couplings are a worthwhile upgrade.
Hose Length - How Much Do You Need?
Choose a hose long enough to:
- Reach all tyres comfortably
- Avoid dragging across hot engine components
- Avoid over-stretching
Longer hoses offer convenience but may slightly increase air resistance - although with ARB compressors, this is rarely noticeable for normal use.
Pressure Gauges - Built-In vs Separate
Some pump up kits include inline gauges.
Advantages:
- Monitor pressure while inflating
- Avoid over-inflation
- Faster adjustments
Even if your kit doesn’t include one, using a reliable tyre pressure gauge is essential for safe touring.
Compatibility With ARB Compressors
ARB pump up kits are compatible with:
- CKMA12 single compressor
- CKMTA12 twin compressor
- Portable ARB compressor systems
Just ensure fittings match your compressor outlet type.
The Bigger Picture
Your compressor might produce 72 LPM or 174 LPM - but if your hose and fittings restrict airflow, you’re not getting the full benefit.
A quality pump up kit:
- Maintains airflow
- Prevents leaks
- Speeds up inflation
- Makes the whole system practical
It’s not an optional extra - it’s part of a complete inflation setup.
Final Thoughts
An ARB compressor without a pump up kit is like a battery without terminals - the core component is there, but it can’t function properly.
If you’re building a reliable 4WD air system, don’t overlook the accessories that make it usable.
Inflate confidently. Pack efficiently. And make sure every part of your setup works together.
