Yes, believe it or not, here comes another LLS question. I did a search and read quite a bunch of threads about the problems people were having with their suspension but didn't find quite the symptoms that would apply to my situation. Hence the new thread.

Vehicle in question is a 00 Expedition EB w/rear LLS. The compressor works and raises the vehicle when ever needed. I changed the connector by the brake master cylinder a couple of years ago when it broke and dropped the rear to the ground.

The problem I'm having now is that sometimes if the truck sits about 10-15 minutes, the rear goes all the way to the ground. When you start it up, the compressor kicks in and raises the rear. Sometimes it does it even if the truck is not even running and keys are off the ignition, but I guess that is normal...

What throws me off here is that sometimes it stays on the normal level even overnight, and longer, even though the truck is not being driven.

So... This leads me to assume that the compressor is fine, but there is a leak somewhere. What is the best way to diagnose a leak? Is it just the good ole' sparybottle with water/soap solution? Or something else, maybe...?

I'm assuming it is a very small leak since sometimes it takes so long for the rear to go down. The position the truck is being parked in does not seem to have any effect on the issue.

And and all helpers/pointers are welcomed!

 

I have a '98 Expy EB 2WD with the EXACT same symptoms. I have no idea where the problem is... Were you able find any responsible components or solutions?

-Marc

 

Actually..., I've lately been too busy with so many other things that I haven't paid any attention to it yet.

The one thing I found out from somewhere is that there is some kind of valve by the frame rail on the driver's side which might be the culprit.

 

^ Yes. Does it go down quickly or slowly? If quickly, then it is likely the valve is opening, which is likely a malfunctioning height sensor. (Leveling can occur at any time up to an including 30 minutes after the vehicle is turned off).

If slowly, then it is likely a leak and that is probably in the air bag itself.

 

When I had touble w/ my LLS, I checked for leaks also (after several episodes of being down to the rubber stops). It ended up being a bad electrical connection at the pigtail by the front passenger tire.

 

Sometimes it goes fast (in about 5-10 minutes) but sometimes it takes several hours. And sometimes it doesn't go down if it even sits overnight.

I just need to try to find some time to really start diagnosing it, but I've been too busy with other stuff lately...

 

On my 2000, I had the same electrical problem on the relay (I think thats what you call it) by the front passenger tire. Sometimes I had to get out and wiggle the wires to get the compressor running. I did have the problem with the rear end dropping all the way down ... and other times it would be fine. I fixed it by trading it in on a 2006 without LLS. Prior to the relay problem, I had the connection by the brake cylinder break while I was about 100 miles from home. I would really check that relay. Maybe try some dielectric (sp?) grease.

I liked the LLS while towing....but it was driving me nuts and was always worried that it would break when you needed most.

 

Tex, my wifes '98 Expo has had the same symptoms you've described - until today. Today it won't pick up off the rubber bumpers. I think it's leaking at the o-ring on the dryer. Gonna replace the o-ring and see if that will at least let it pump the bags back up.

Tonight's the first time I've searched online for help with any of this. Seems I'm not alone.

If I can get it pumping again, I'm gonna check out the fitting near the Master Cylinder.

Thanks Folks!

Mitch

 

Thanks for the reminder, Mitch!

I've gotten lots of good ideas and pointers, but haven't gotten around to do anything to it yet, but I guess it's about time to start working on it soon...

 

No problem Tex, . . . . Anything I can do to help you know.

Well, I couldn't find the right size o-ring for the dryer, and I couldn't find anything wrong with the one that came off either. So I put it all back together and it worked. Pumped the bags up, but the soapy water shows small leaks at both ends of the dryer.

Reckon a new dryer would fix me up?

Mitch

 

Hey, here is a link for some parts. I hope this helps.

I think if mine tanks...Ill convert it.

http://www.americanairsuspension.com...ucts.php?cat=2

Also. I have talked to this guy on the phone. Very helpful.

 

I also have a '99 Espy EB with the EXACT same symptoms. I did replace the valve in the engine compartment a year or so ago when it went all the way down and wouldn't come back. Otherwise I'm hoping it just keeps working untill I trade it in. I don't think I will buy one again with this feature, as it seems to cause the most posts on this site.

 

Now that you posted that link, I've thought more and more about converting the suspension from LLS to regular coil springs. At $269 shipped, the price seems not to be too bad...

Has anybody here done the conversion? If so, how much work is it. I'd imagine not terribly big job, but would like to hear some comments about it.

Or if you know any further links to more info, please post up.

 

If you dig aound the website at that link, it will have instructions listed on how to do it. I looked it over and It looks like any decently mechanical fella could do it. http://www.americanairsuspension.com/air%20help.htm


This is a different link that shows you how its done. Enjoy. I dont work for this company by the way... I had a few questions abd shot him an email...answered within 6 hours. Very helpful on the phone as well.

I cant wait for mine to crap. Ill convert it.

 

Really? Hmmm... I thought I browsed it all through already, but I guess I'll have to do some more reading, then.