Tyre inflation and deflation has always gone hand-in-hand with off-roading. Reducing the pressure of your tyres is after all a vital technique when navigating the world’s toughest terrains. Yet, understanding the when and how is integral to success both in terms of vehicle performance and that all-important traction.
By airing down at just the right moment, you can tap into a long list of plus points, including enhanced performance, reduced risk of tyre damage, and a more comfortable ride. But, when’s the best time to air down? In this blog post, we answer that very question…
You’re tackling sandy terrain
Airing down is particularly crucial when driving on sandy terrain. Lower tyre pressure increases the surface area of your 4×4 tyres, helping the vehicle ‘float’ over the sand rather than dig into it. This prevents your vehicle from getting stuck and improves traction. The same theory applies when travelling across loose gravel.
By airing down your 4×4 tyres and reducing that pressure, you’ll have a broader footprint to work with and it’ll minimise the risk of sinking or slipping thanks to the added stability.
Things have got a little muddy
By airing down before you hit mud, you can gain improved contact with the ground. This increased surface area and flexibility will allow tyres to better negotiate uneven surfaces with ease. Aired down tyres also provide more grip, and reduce the likelihood of getting bogged down and stuck.
Snowy terrain is on the horizon
As in sand, driving in snow requires you to adapt your vehicle for better safety and performance. The broader footprint provided by airing down will help you minimise the risk of sinking as well as distribute the vehicle’s weight more evenly across your tyres.
The result? A driving experience that feels like you’re floating on air, and enhanced traction that’ll get you exactly where you need to be.
There’s a rocky road ahead
Rocky trails can be more easily negotiated with lower tyre pressure. By airing down, you’ll enjoy a much smoother ride, with tyres able to mould over obstacles rather than bounce off them.
For routes as rugged as these you’ll not only benefit from better traction but reduce the impact jagged rocks have on vehicle components. Vehicles with aired down tyres are less likely to sustain punctures or suspension damage.
It’s time to invest in an air compressor
For a convenient way to inflate and deflate your 4×4 tyres to exactly the right pressure in no time at all, an air compressor is an excellent investment. While portable air compressors remain popular, we’d recommend an on-board air compressor for the best performance and convenience. Take the Truck explains more about the perks of having this piece of kit on-board during your next trip and every adventure to come:
“On-board air compressors are hardwired into your vehicle’s electrical system and controlled with a switch inside your vehicle. They allow a faster and more convenient access to compressed air for returning your tyres to street pressure after airing down. They can also be used to operate air-locking differentials if you happen to upgrade your 4×4 vehicle to ARB Air Lockers down the road to improve off-road performance.”
So, what are you waiting for? Shop our full range of air compressors, including various on-board air compressor options from ARB, today.