Air Bag Installation
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Air Bag Installation
I tow a very heavy RV trailer and just ordered a set of Firestone Airbags to keep the rear from sagging with the camper hitched up. I'm far from what I would consider a mechanic but I am a capable do it yourselfer. How hard are these to install and do you have any suggestions for making the job easier?
Thanks,
Bob
Thanks,
Bob
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From: Michigan
Keep us informed on this if you would. I too am considering some air bags for the rear of my Ex, and would like to know how difficult they are to install. BTW, did you also get the on-board air compressor?
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I decided to keep the cost down and not order the onboard compressor. I'm only ordering the air bags to firm up the rear end when I'm towing and I have a compressor at home. I use it now to add air to the load range E tires when I tow so I can add air to the air bags at the same time.
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From: Michigan
Originally Posted by CNY_AF32D
I decided to keep the cost down and not order the onboard compressor. I'm only ordering the air bags to firm up the rear end when I'm towing and I have a compressor at home. I use it now to add air to the load range E tires when I tow so I can add air to the air bags at the same time.
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From: JOLIET,IL
air bags
i installed rear airbags on my 2000 ex with the onboard compressor and i love it. i tow my performance boat alot and other trailers so i wanted to just hook up and go. the install was easy, anyone with brain can figure it out. hope all goes well.
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From: JOLIET,IL
I've Got About $650 Wrapped Up In The Air Bag System, But It Is Great. It Only Took About 3hrs To Install The System Complete. I Used The Superduty Air Bags Good Up To 5ooo# And A Single Switch Leveling System. It Senses The Rear End Sag In About 20 Seconds And Then Levels It To Normal Ride Height. When I Disconnect The Trailer It Then Lowers The Vehicle. I Didn't Really Notice Any Major Ride Differences, But The Body Roll Is A Little Better Than Original. My Normal Towing Is A 7000# Boat That I Can't Even Tell Is Hooked To The Ex.
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From: Tulsa, OK
I added mine myself. Really was a tight fit on my '03. Took about 4 hours and some knuckle-busting. Having said that, however, I would do it again. The ride is better and truck sits better when towing.
Next, I intend to install a pressure gauge and regulator. I'll put my own air compressor and tank on the truck. I have noticed that it is difficult to get a precise amount of air in using just the Schraeder valves. Also, the "trapped" air in the relatively small bags tends to change pressure during a cool morning / hot day transition, changing the ride somewhat.
Next, I intend to install a pressure gauge and regulator. I'll put my own air compressor and tank on the truck. I have noticed that it is difficult to get a precise amount of air in using just the Schraeder valves. Also, the "trapped" air in the relatively small bags tends to change pressure during a cool morning / hot day transition, changing the ride somewhat.
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I keep mine at minimum (5psi) pressure unless loaded and/or towing. The ride is stiffer and a bit more bouncy otherwise.
The Air Lift Load Controller II has a low limit switch that maintains 5psi so they don't go flat. Allowing them to run flat is BAD. The LC II ups the warranty on the Bags to two years also. Can't imagine running bags w/o onboard air.
The Air Lift Load Controller II has a low limit switch that maintains 5psi so they don't go flat. Allowing them to run flat is BAD. The LC II ups the warranty on the Bags to two years also. Can't imagine running bags w/o onboard air.
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From: MI
Originally Posted by CNY_AF32D
I'm far from what I would consider a mechanic but I am a capable do it yourselfer. How hard are these to install and do you have any suggestions for making the job easier?
http://airlift.r-catalog.com/ImgVD/AIL/MN-431_57340.pdf
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