MoreFlate goes in the rear cargo area, mounted to the floor or wheel well

MoreFlate is an onboard air compressor system that mounts in the cargo bay of a Jeep JK. The unit sits behind the rear seats, typically secured to the floor or wheel well, and connects to your vehicle's battery and air lines that run to each tire. Installation involves running hoses through the interior, mounting the compressor box, and wiring it to the battery — a job that takes most owners four to six hours and requires basic hand tools plus a few specialty items.

The rear location keeps the compressor out of sight and protects it from road debris, while still allowing quick access to the control panel and hose connections. Most owners choose the driver's side wheel well or the center floor behind the rear seats, depending on their cargo needs and how much they want to preserve interior space.

Key Takeaways

  • MoreFlate mounts in the rear cargo area and connects to your battery with a dedicated power cable and inline fuse.
  • Air hoses run from the compressor through the interior to each wheel, with quick-disconnect fittings at the tires for straightforward connection and removal.
  • You will need to drill holes in the firewall or floor to route hoses, and seal them afterward to prevent water and dust intrusion.
  • The control panel can mount on the dashboard, center console, or inside the cargo area depending on how often you plan to use the system.
  • Most installations require a basic socket set, crimpers for electrical connections, and a drill with bits — specialty tools are minimal.

Where to mount the compressor unit itself

The compressor box is the largest component and takes up the most space. Most JK owners mount it on the driver's side behind the rear wheel well, secured with bolts through the existing floor or to the wheel well structure. This location keeps it away from passengers and cargo, and puts it near the battery for a shorter power cable run.

Some owners prefer the center floor behind the rear seats, which spreads the weight more evenly and leaves the wheel well clear. This works well if you rarely carry rear passengers or large cargo. Measure your available space first — the compressor box is roughly 12 inches wide, 8 inches tall, and 6 inches deep, though dimensions vary by model.

Whichever location you choose, the compressor must sit on a flat, stable surface and be secured so it does not move during off-road driving. Use stainless steel bolts and lock washers, and check the mounting points regularly after your first few trips.

Running air hoses from the compressor to each tire

Air hoses connect the compressor to each wheel, and the routing determines how clean your install looks and how protected the hoses are from damage. Most owners run hoses along the frame rails underneath the Jeep, then up the inside of each fender to the tire valve. This keeps them out of sight and away from hot engine components.

Inside the vehicle, hoses typically run along the floor under the carpet or trim panels, then through the firewall to reach the engine bay and frame. You will need to drill a hole in the firewall large enough for the hose bundle — usually 1 to 1.5 inches — and seal it with a rubber grommet and silicone afterward to keep water and dust out of the cabin.

At each tire, use quick-disconnect fittings so you can connect and remove the hose without tools. This makes it straightforward to air up or down without leaving the hose attached all the time. Label each hose clearly — front left, front right, rear left, rear right — so you do not mix them up in the dark or during an emergency.

Wiring the compressor to your battery

The compressor draws significant current, so it needs its own dedicated power cable from the battery, not a tap off an existing circuit. Run a heavy-gauge cable (typically 4 or 6 AWG depending on the compressor model) from the positive terminal of the battery, through the engine bay and into the cargo area where the compressor sits. Install an inline fuse holder near the battery — usually rated between 80 and 150 amps — to protect the circuit if something goes wrong.

The negative (ground) cable can connect to the vehicle frame or battery negative terminal; most owners run it to a nearby bolt on the frame to keep the wiring tidy. Use a multimeter to verify you have 12 volts at the compressor before you power it on for the first time. Check all connections for corrosion or loose terminals after your first few uses, especially if you are driving in wet conditions.

Do not skip the inline fuse. A short circuit in the compressor or wiring can drain your battery or start a fire if the circuit is not protected.

Mounting the control panel and pressure gauge

The control panel lets you turn the compressor on and off and monitor tire pressure. Most owners mount it on the dashboard, center console, or inside the cargo area depending on how often they use the system. Dashboard mounting puts the controls in straightforward reach but requires drilling into the dash trim. Console mounting is less visible but means reaching down to turn it on. Cargo area mounting keeps everything out of sight but requires you to reach back or get out to adjust pressure.

The pressure gauge should be visible from the driver's seat so you can monitor tire pressure while airing up or down. Some systems have a digital readout on the control panel; others use an analog gauge mounted separately. Run the gauge line from the compressor to your chosen panel location using the same hose routing as the air lines.

Sealing holes and protecting hoses from damage

Every hole you drill — whether in the firewall, floor, or fender — is a potential entry point for water, dust, and road spray. Use rubber grommets in all holes where hoses pass through, and seal around them with silicone caulk or expanding foam. Check these seals every six months, especially if you ford water or drive in heavy rain.

Hoses running under the Jeep are exposed to rocks, branches, and road debris. Wrap them in protective tubing or spiral wrap, and find them to the frame with zip ties or clamps every 12 to 18 inches. Avoid routing hoses near sharp edges, exhaust components, or moving parts like suspension links. If a hose rubs or chafes during normal driving, it will eventually fail and leave you stranded.

Inspect all hose connections and fittings before each trip. Tighten any that have loosened, and replace any hose that shows cracks, splits, or bulging.

Testing the system before your first off-road trip

Before you rely on MoreFlate in the field, test it in your driveway or a parking lot. Turn on the compressor and listen for unusual noises — a grinding sound or high-pitched whine may indicate a problem. Check that air flows to all four tires and that the pressure gauge reads accurately by comparing it to a handheld gauge.

Air up and down each tire a few times to make sure the quick-disconnects work smoothly and do not leak. A small hiss when you disconnect is normal; a steady stream of air means the fitting is worn and needs replacement. Let the compressor run for several minutes and feel the hose and compressor box — they should be warm but not hot to the touch.

Check the battery voltage before and after a full cycle of airing up all four tires. If voltage drops below 11 volts, your battery may be too small or the wiring too thin, and you should have an electrician review the installation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to remove the rear seats to install MoreFlate?

Not always. If you mount the compressor on the driver's side wheel well, you can leave the seats in place. If you mount it under the center floor, you may need to remove the rear seats temporarily to access the mounting points and run hoses underneath. Check your specific model's instructions before you start.

Can I run the power cable through the interior instead of under the hood?

You can, but it is not recommended. Running the cable under the hood keeps it away from passengers and reduces the risk of accidental damage. If you must run it through the interior, protect it with conduit and find it so it cannot rub against sharp edges or get pinched by seat adjustments.

What size fuse should I use for the battery connection?

The fuse size depends on your compressor model and the gauge of the power cable. Check the MoreFlate manual for the recommended fuse rating — it is usually between 80 and 150 amps. Using a fuse that is too large defeats the protection; using one that is too small will blow repeatedly during normal use.

How do I prevent the hoses from freezing in cold weather?

Moisture inside the hoses can freeze and block airflow in winter. Drain the compressor tank after each use by opening the drain valve at the bottom of the unit. Some owners also install a small inline water trap in the hose line to catch condensation before it reaches the tires.

Can I use MoreFlate to run air tools or inflate other equipment?

Yes, if your system includes a secondary outlet or manifold. Most MoreFlate setups are designed for tire inflation only, but you can add a splitter or T-fitting to the hose line to run an air tool or inflate a recovery bag. Make sure the compressor has enough capacity for your intended use, and check the manual for any restrictions.