I'd like to see if a 2009 XLT could be fitted with rear air bags since they aren't available as a factory option on the XLT.

Any possible solutions?

 

I installed Firestone RideRite air bags on my F-250 and they are absolutely perfect.

My wife has an 08 expedition, 5.4 and tow package. I use it to tow our camper which is 28ft long and it does a good job but I too have a strong desire to put air bags on it and I can't find any.

Anyone out there who can help? Please?

 

I deliberately ordered my '07 Expedition withOUT the air bags as they make setting a weight distribution hitch for a trailer a PITA. Without a WDH you're still unloading the front suspension.

Towing "level" is not the goal or even an indication of good weight distribution if air bags are disguising the overload. Equal suspension compression is what should happen when hooked to the trailer.

-- Chuck

 

I agree with you Chuck, my WDH works very well and we are very close to being level when traveling. I don't really need the air bags but I like to play with stuff like that.

On my F-250 the air bags level me out when I tow my fifth wheel cargo trailer but I do understand that the weight is not being distributed. The bags do a good job of keeping the suspension from hitting the bump stops.

 

I've not been able to find any aftermarket. I traded a set from one 08 to another. It worked , nut I'll have to buy an aftermerket self leveling compressor to make thm work. I know for a fact that the factory bags ride LOTS smoother when empty or loaded and they stil actuallt work very well w/ the WDH.

 

Good work Brandon, I may do the same on a 2008 or 2009 XLT, don't have one though, just the Limited I got 2 weeks ago with air bags. Yipee! Took a while to find it.

Have you been driving the '08 with the AB's you installed and how do you keep them inflated, ocassionally w/ a shop A-comp?

I have a 2001 w/ airbags and a 2001 without airbags and I far prefer the one with.

I have towed a whole lot with them and really like them. And the truck with them when not towing too.

 

It's a pain to fill them. The solenoids are always closed unless energized. My plan is to get a air lift compressor with a self leveler and wire them to a keyed hot with the solenoids. That way when the car isn't running no air will leak out. I hope my theory plays out.