ARB Brushless Compressors

Which Compressor to shoose?

  • ARB Brushless Single

    Votes: 0 0.0%
  • ARB Brushless Twin

    Votes: 1 100.0%

  • Total voters
    1

Datsun Man

Member
So I am restarting this thread since those who responded before clearly did not understand the topic at hand.

I currently have a Classic ARB Compressor from the portable case that I bought 4 years ago. Overall it has been a good compressor, But it has come down to a time where I need to replace it and upgrade. I already have my mind set on ARB. More specific I am looking at the ARB Brushless Compressors. That includes both the Single and Twin Brushless Compressors. I have no interest in any other Brand of Compressor.

To give you an idea, this is what I currently have.

Screenshot_20250716-175015.png

So you have an idea of what is on the table for discussion I am look at these only. Here is the ARB Brushless Single.

Screenshot_20250716-175036.png

Here is the ARB Brushless Twin

Screenshot_20250716-175129.png

Now I do suspect there has to be a few individuals that have these Compressors already. I would love to hear first hand experience from those individuals. Even if it is the Portable Suitcase version, I can accept it.

For those that want to bring up a different compressor, don't bother on here and just make a different thread. I don't want want to hear about it.

If you do not have experience with the Two Compressors above and only want to spread rumors, do yourself a favor and don't bother posting. I only want to hear information from those who have the experience.

So please, for those with experience I would love for you to share your experience and thoughts on the two. Input on why you went with the Single or Twin would be most excellent as well.
 

kmacafee

Adventurer
Why the fixation with ARB when there are several better compressors out there? I've witnessed more than one fail which is why I always recommend Extreme Outback.
 

llamalander

Well-known member
I have some experience with compressors and specifically with the ARB (brushed) single.
Today I looked into why my second ARB compressor can't hold air for more than 5 (actual) seconds, it's because it's leaking from the end seam, just like the first one. Not repairable, just trash now. Is this actually made in Australia? Probably not.
I'd consider taking the working parts off, but there aren't any. The new solenoid won't vent , it needs to be manually opened to disengage.
The solenoid costs 10 times what it is worth, especially with a design that mills a tiny aluminum block so thin is made to fail. Tapped with archaic threads so you have to source parts from the other side of the planet, it is as reliable as any other piece of Italian engineering, but not sexy or fun.
The locker? well, thats been warrantied too, now that I think about it. How many driveline shops are there in Australia to keep these things running?

My work compressor is over 13 years old, cost a fraction of this ARB toy and actually has to go to work on a regular basis, for 8 hours at a time, not just sit around and be used a few times a year. I've been considering using a tool-battery powered compressor for my locker (1/4 of the price, and reliable), or really any other option--

Quick check shows the twin brushless is about the same price as a 150 psi compressor that comes with its own 200cc gas engine-- instead you have an ip67 rating to withstand soaking with soapy water to confirm that the damn body is leaking air and cam-lock for easy warranty return. I say go for the full $1k twin! There's no reason it can't be more useful than 2 bricks taped together and shoved in your engine compartment, just much, much more expensive. YMMV.
 

Datsun Man

Member
I have some experience with compressors and specifically with the ARB (brushed) single.
Today I looked into why my second ARB compressor can't hold air for more than 5 (actual) seconds, it's because it's leaking from the end seam, just like the first one. Not repairable, just trash now. Is this actually made in Australia? Probably not.
I'd consider taking the working parts off, but there aren't any. The new solenoid won't vent , it needs to be manually opened to disengage.
The solenoid costs 10 times what it is worth, especially with a design that mills a tiny aluminum block so thin is made to fail. Tapped with archaic threads so you have to source parts from the other side of the planet, it is as reliable as any other piece of Italian engineering, but not sexy or fun.
The locker? well, thats been warrantied too, now that I think about it. How many driveline shops are there in Australia to keep these things running?

My work compressor is over 13 years old, cost a fraction of this ARB toy and actually has to go to work on a regular basis, for 8 hours at a time, not just sit around and be used a few times a year. I've been considering using a tool-battery powered compressor for my locker (1/4 of the price, and reliable), or really any other option--

Quick check shows the twin brushless is about the same price as a 150 psi compressor that comes with its own 200cc gas engine-- instead you have an ip67 rating to withstand soaking with soapy water to confirm that the damn body is leaking air and cam-lock for easy warranty return. I say go for the full $1k twin! There's no reason it can't be more useful than 2 bricks taped together and shoved in your engine compartment, just much, much more expensive. YMMV.
Not entirely helpful since you don't have the experience with the Brushless. Also I should mention that my current ARB Compressor is Brushed and has yet to have a problem. It's just a feeling of knowing an upgrade is due.
 

Forum statistics

Threads
189,798
Messages
2,920,968
Members
232,931
Latest member
Northandfree
Top