As an avid overlander, I’ve always sought equipment that can keep up with my adventurous spirit. Recently, I had the pleasure of testing the Thor’s Lightning Portable TotalControl True Dual Air Compressor, and it has quickly become an essential part of my gear. Here’s my personal take on this powerful compressor after putting it through its paces on several off-road trips.

Overview and Features

Performance Specs:

• Inflation Power: This beast can inflate 35″ tires from 10 to 35 PSI in under 4 minutes. During my latest trip to the Colorado Rockies, this feature saved me countless hours or airing up and down between trails.
• Dual Cylinder Efficiency: It boasts a flow rate of 11.5 CFM at 0 PSI and 7.0 CFM at 30 PSI, making it one of the fastest compressors I’ve used.
• Pressure Range: The automatic adjustment from 10 to 120 PSI and manual range from 1 to 150 PSI provide incredible flexibility for different terrains and conditions.
• Noise Level: Operating at 70-75 dB from a distance of 1 foot, it’s surprisingly quiet given its power.

Durability and Design:

• Build Quality: Constructed with high-strength materials, including stainless steel hoses and upgraded aluminum cylinders, this compressor is built to last. On a recent muddy trail, it handled the harsh conditions without a hitch.
• Thermal Cutoff Switch: This feature prevents overheating, providing peace of mind during long inflations.
• Digital Display: The clear, easy-to-read digital gauge for precise pressure settings has been a game-changer for me, especially when adjusting tire pressure on uneven terrain.

Convenience and Usability:

• Set and Forget: The digital display allows users to set their desired PSI and walk away, letting the compressor handle the rest. This was particularly useful when I was setting up camp and didn’t want to stand by the tires the whole time.
• Multi-Tire Inflation Capability: Compatible with Thor’s Lightning’s multi-tire inflation kits, enabling simultaneous inflation of up to four tires. This not only saves time but also ensures uniform tire pressure across all wheels.
• Carrying Case: Comes with a robust carrying case that includes accessory pockets for additional tools and spare parts. It fits neatly in my truck bed organizer.

Real-World Testing

In practical tests, the Thor’s Lightning TotalControl True Dual Air Compressor excelled in both speed and reliability. On my trip to Moab, inflating all four tires took significantly less time compared to single-cylinder compressors. The automatic shutoff feature at the desired PSI proved to be a game-changer, allowing me to focus on other tasks while my tires inflated.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High Efficiency: Dual-cylinder design offers fast inflation times.
• User-Friendly: Digital controls and automatic shutoff make it easy to use.
• Durable: Built to last with high-quality materials and safety features.

Cons:

• Price: Higher cost compared to some single-cylinder models, though justified by its performance and features.
• Vibration: Like many powerful compressors, it can vibrate significantly, requiring stable placement during operation. I will be releasing a video on how I mount this compressor under the hood of my Tacoma, so stay tuned!

Conclusion

The Thor’s Lightning TotalControl True Dual Air Compressor is a top-tier choice for serious off-road enthusiasts. Its combination of speed, efficiency, and durability makes it an invaluable tool for any overlanding trip. Whether you’re deflating for a smoother trail ride or inflating to hit the highway, this compressor ensures you spend less time waiting and more time adventuring.

For more information, visit Thors Lightning Air Systems and use code OVERLANDCAM10 to save 10% off all orders. Trust me, once you add this compressor to your gear, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it.