Originally posted by wilburburns:
A few have contacted ARB about using CO2 to actuate the locker. ARB does not have a problem with it, nor will it void the warranty. As long as pressure is regulated properly, there should not be any problems.
CO2 will not act as a missile. CO2 is actually very safe for automotive use. It is good to have it strapped down though.
Cliff
Oddly enough, ARB also claims their lockers are very reliable. Ya, right. I've run several, I know the truth. As for the O ring thing: it doesn't take a rocket scientist to realize that exposing rubber to extreme differences in temperature shrinks and expandes the O ring. Since this O ring is a major cause of air locker failure, I wouldn't recommend pushing your luck.
ARB sells tons of O rings. Why? B/c over time, the rubber deteriorates and becomes brittle causing air leaks. If you want to shorten that life span, go right ahead. It's your dime.
As for compressed CO2, yep it's not explosive like a missle. It does contain stored energy as someone already mentioned. It is liquid CO2. Expose it to air and it EXPANDS into its gaseous state. Ever seen the top get knocked off one? Blew a perfect hole in a concrete block wall. Why do you think welding shops store them outside and don't even want you bringing them in the building to get refilled? Tie it down and be safe if for no other reason than to keep in off your noggin in a rollover.
Sean