Hey all. I got a 2005 Navigator that Im converting (too many headaches) and would like some insight. I plan on documenting the process in this thread.

What parts/brands were used?

Ride difference?

Vehicle height changes?

Any other info/pics you have would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

 

Used rear springs from a non-air suspension Expy, Monroe shocks for rear, front shocks with coil spring assist for early Ford Bronco (rears). Less than 200.00 for everything.

I've heard Monroe makes a conversion kit that includes everything. Available through NAPA.

 

I bought a 4 wheel Monroe conversion kit from rockauto.com for a little over $200. I did the rear shocks/springs myself one day and planned to do the front another day. My truck went in for an inspection and I needed front ball joints. I had the shop do the work and since they were gonna be working right there anyway, I had them do the front coilovers. They charge me an extra hour of labor. I don't really feel any difference in the ride. The stance looks the same also.

 

Thanks for the info. Did you guys uninstall the compressor and auto-leveler or just unplug everything to disable it?

 

Any thoughts on this setup?

LINCOLN NAVIGATOR/ FORD EXPEDITION AIR RIDE SHOCK SUSPENSION CONVERSION KIT | eBay

 

This is an excellent place to get the parts and the answers.
Lincoln Air Suspension Parts from the REAL Air Suspension Experts

 

I bought the strutmasters conversion kit for my 03' Nav. I bought the truck "pancacked" as the air suspension was shot. As it turns out, it was just the front left solenoid. But I swapped it all out anyway to get rid of the future headache. I cannot say that it felt the same because it was riding on the bump stops when I bought it (I got a deal I couldn't refuse, LOL!) . Needless to say, I swapped out the 4 in my driveway in about 4 hours. I could've done it faster, but we had Cicadas all over the darn place! I paid $500 for the kit on Ebay, but regret paying that much due to the fact that it's not a kit. It's just the exact replacement struts/shocks for an non-air suspension expy. I still get an error msg on my display to check the Air suspension though. No biggie.

 

I don't have a story, but have a 98 gator in my driveway that needs a motor. The deal was so good i couldn't pass it up. In expectation of the suspension being bad, I've done a bit of research and would like to add some of what I've found, if it's ok.
First I think I'll go back with the air suspension. It wasn't my first thought but if bought from here is a bit cheaper than converting and according to the site will last typically 80-100k miles so for 3-5 years it may be ok. After that then ill convert. call me foolish, but I think I want to experience the luxuriousness for a while plus it's easier to replace than convert. Here is the link to the setup. Also if you look at the top, you will see "manuals" click there and you will find PDF's to help with the installs of both conversions and replacements.

http://http://www.arnottindustries.com/part_LINCOLN_Air_Suspension_Parts_yid2_pid19.html

Also I found all my info just searching this site. So this should save a little time.

 

I ordered 2 Arnott solenoids for the front and will try that to see if it help while I research the kits.

 

I did the coil conversion on my Lincoln Mark VIII, It rode like crap with the coils. I wouldn't do it again. My Expedition has the rear air bags, they lasted 10 years before they failed. I ordered a new set from American Air Suspension & called it good. I tow a camper with about 400 lbs of tongue weight so the air bags are perfect as they always keep the truck level. It's your call, I know it can be a pain but once you replace the failed parts you'll be good for many years to come.

 

I took the fuse out, took the instrument cluster and removed the bulb out. I also turned the switch off that controls it.

I did the conversion earlier this year and the one thing I don't like is the front end sits lower. I'm looking into a few options to raise it up. But other than that, the ride is about the same.

 

go_phx posted this 02-01-2010, 09:48 PM

I have an 06 Navigator Luxury that had those exact same symptoms. Here in Phoenix it wasn't a problem but when we drive to LA to visit in-laws our Navigator would lose air pressure in the front when it was cold and damp outside. Once it would warm up all symptoms would disappear. Dealer replaced air compressor (under warranty) - did not fix. Replaced the "air caps" on the two front air shocks and that seemed to solve the problem.
Looking at my repair order....

18A099 Code D1. Pneumatic Test Failed. Found leaking front air spring caps.

(2) 6L1Z-18A099-CA CAP
(2) 6L7Z-58302-A SPRING

That was back on 11/27 and it's held air since. Good luck. These air systems are a PITA but sure make for a nice ride. Many have done the coil over conversions.





I searched the part #'s and couldn't find anything. Anyone know about these "spring caps"???

 

They are good systems and I'm considering changing mine back.

 

I converted my Mark VIII to springs almost 10 years ago and the ride is okay but I wish that I kept the air suspension in it. It was driving me nuts and I got tired of chasing the problems. I have a lot more experience with the system now and have had some minor issues with my Navigator, but so far I have worked through them.
The main reason I think most people change the system out is the embarassment of having a really nice car or truck riding on the bump stops. That's when they opt out for the conversion and not taking into consideration that it is a wear part and the first or previous owners have already got the"New" from it and some issues might arise that will not be taken care of under warranty.

 

So glad our EB is not bagged.

My brothers GrandMarquis however, we converted his and left his compressor and everything in place incase of the need (tho seriously doubt it) to put new bags back on.