Hi guys, I am trying to install a RAS in my 2005 Ex. I got the correct part (direct from RAS, MK3-XXEF). I have it extended I believe as far as it goes, and it is not quite long enough to get the long bolt in on the bottom of the spring pack. Am I doing something wrong with the install? It seems pretty straightforward, but I cannot get it to fit. Here are a few pics. Thanks for any input.

 

I think you have to support the truck by the frame so the leaf springs are hanging.

 

Definitely support the truck by the frame. Looks like there is plenty of turns left to extend the spring. Keep turing the spring out until it fits, it threads out on the rod.

I know this because I was scratching my head in the same spot you are in until I had a ahaaaa moment and realized what I was doing wrong.

 

I agree . support the frame

 

Thanks ExxWhy, I will try that. I did not know the spring will turn on the rod.

The truck is supported by the frame and leafs fully extended. The jack is just supporting the pumpkin at full extension.

 

Ahh, I suspected that might be the case with the support.

I didn't know the spring would turn either, until it hit me.

 

You're installing them wrong! View video....

Roadmaster Active Suspension Kits - Haul more safely! - YouTube

 

They are supposed to face to the rear of the truck.

 

All I could see is the jack under the pumpkin, hope you got it figured out!

 

These are the newer model/installation method.

But the initial installation used to be done with the truck supported by the AXLE to get the springs on...however with the NEW installation method that may not be necessary since these new brackets do NOT require unbolting the axle spring keeper plate...like I said...these are the newer style RAS mounting brackets and are different then the ones I installed...

In the past though...Once the RAS is bolted to the spring pack that is when it is critical to support the vehicle by the FRAME to have the springs hanging in an unsupported manner.

I'm not sure it matters much with the new mounting system if you support the vehicle by the frame or axle for the act of bolting on the RAS...I would think it would be easier to bolt the RAS on by supporting the axle as the spring length needed in that situation is shorter...but adjusting the RAS to the proper spring tension you MUST support by the FRAME...

I believe this has already been figured out and that the threaded rod inside the spring is very LONG and just needed to be extended to complete the installation.

Post some final pictures and comments!

Joe.

 

I've installed both The "old" style where it was necessary to disconnect the spring u-bolts) and the "new" style that go around the u-bolts (much faster install). The new style have even longer threads than the "old" style and will fit easily.

The replies to the thread are accurate. Just remember to support the EX from the frame when you get ready to adjust" the tension so the axle , springs, etc. hang free (unloaded).

D

 

Thanks for all the comments and clarifications guys. Yes, these are the most recent version, where they do not require unbolting the spring pack u-bolts. The above pics are proper installation, and the frame is supported with the axle fully lowered. It was almost installed properly; I just was not aware the spring was able to screw away from that jam nut.

After ExxWhy's comment, a nice storm came through here, and it has been raining off and on again today, so I haven't gotten back to it. Will update once they are installed.

 

some bad comments about RAS breaking on here.........I would do air bags or b codes

 

njneer1 - What "bad" comments" do you reference?

Thanks, D

 

TX, I think he must be referring to your thread from a few months ago. After a search, I did not read anyone breaking the newer version (MK3).