I made a choice to run CO2 instead of a compressor for these reasons:- CO2 inflates the tires much more quickly than an air compressor does.
- CO2 runs my air tools. Why air tools? Because if you're going to do a front axle swap on the trail or going to do do some hard core repairs, many of the OEM torque specifications are considerable and good luck getting the 35MM axle nut off. You can't run air tools with an onboard compressor.
- I store the Power Tank on the rack on top. Yes, I could put a compressor in the engine compartment. Not a bad choice, but the engine compartment is essentially "full" at the moment. The MAF auxiliary fuel tank will be going between the rear axle and the rear bumper - so it would need to go inside and space is an issue.
So that's why. I think that the acid concerns are a non-starter. People have been using CO2 for a LONG TIME NOW with no difficulties - which is also my experience.
There are downsides to CO2- There are recurring costs to tank fills where an air compressor is a one-time purchase.
- Weight - my complete load out on CO2 for a long trip is 30 pounds (1x10 lbs PowerTank and 1x20 lbs PowerTank). Usually I opt for one or the other but I do have two. If I anticipate a very difficult trail repair where I'll be running the air ratchet, I bring extra CO2.
- Most importantly, CO2 runs out and the compressor doesn't. For very long term expedition use there is a trade off between the potential need for air tools and the longevity of supply from a compressor.
