Hello, I've done a search and didn't find what I was looking for. If it's been covered in the past I apologize. I have a '99 EB with the load leveling suspension. Seems like when I first got it the compressor came on at least every-other drive. Now it may come on once or twice a week. It's driven everyday. Is this normal? Maybe I'm used to the noise of he compressor and just don't notice it as much.

thanks- Mike

 

[updated:LAST EDITED ON 25-Apr-02 AT 06:00 PM (EST)]I'll plead ignorance up front, not owning a model with this feature, but since no one else has responded, I'll throw these observations out for consideration.

I would think once the system is fully charged, the only time it would be activated is with additional loading (passengers, cargo or towing). The relatively small volume of gas involved and the narrow pressure range that must be maintained would also be affected by temperature change. I.e. heat or cold would cause pressure fluctuation. If you were driving in winter from a warm garage to cold air, I would expect the system to activate. Therefore, it would activate more during colder weather than warm weather.

Just as the engine/powertrain control module uses an adaptive strategy to "learn" your driving characteristics, there may also be a similar adaptive mechanism that "learns" your driving style and type of road surfaces driven on. If you drive the same route weekly, it may reduce the frequency of suspension corrections which may be why you seldom hear it.

You could always do the "Beefy Neighbor" test. Offer your biggest neighbor a beer to sit in the tailgate area and see if the load leveling system is activated. If he is a real good neighbor this test can be repeated as often as necessary (or as long as the beer holds out) - just tell the wives you're 'fixing' the Expy.

 

My suspension activates a lot. It seems that it activaetes when the doors are closed. For example: If I came home and everyone got out of the truck, as soon as the last door is closed, the system deflates the rear suspension. If I hook up my trailer with the rear window open, when I close the window it pumps up a little. It should also adjust when you park on a hill because it will change the load on the rear.
You should be able to test it like the previous post said but you'll need two people. Make sure all the doors are closed. Open the drivers door. Step on the bumper and have someone close the drivers door. The system should pump up the rear to compensate for your weight.

Is the "CK SUSP" light working? Is it on? There is a switch forward of the passenger side kickpanel to turn it on or off

Hope this helps a little.

 

I very rarely hear the air suspension activating (and I used to when I first purchased, so I'm guessing you DO get used to the sound).

I suppose I'm easily amused, but it is interesting to park at church (we have a very hilly parking lot), and come out after the service to find the suspension has contorted itself (sometimes quite dramatically) to keep the Expy level. I've also placed quite heavy loads in the back and have yet to find the rear end sagging after driving a short distance...

 

My 97 seems to have a problem with running more often than not and for no apparent reason. I do not carry any heavy loads or pull a trailer. The compressor runs for 30 seconds or so after start up and will continue to "cycle" every few minutes or so until I get tired of listening to it run and turn up the volume on the CD player! I will also pick up the check suspension light after 30 minutes of drive time and thats with my family (6 of us) or me by my self. Perhaps there is a small air leak that is causing the compressor to run excessively.....any thoughts?

 

I have had two compressors replaced on my 99 EB 5.4. Here is my take on what happens with the "runs when started when I bought it" comment. The Expy is leveled at the factory empty. when weight (seats, people, etc) is added the pump levels the frame. During one of your trips to the dealer they reset the system level to what you have now. That means less frequent pumping.

I would like to know how to reset the level and get it back to pumping before take-off.

If the pump runs constantly you have a leak and need repairs.

 

Just bought my '98 XLT Expy & really love it. Is load-leveling suspension part of the tow package? How can I tell if I have it?

Thanks!

 

The load leveling suspension should "deflate" everytime you exit the car and shut all the doors. You should hear a series of clicks as the pressure valves releases the air from the rear and front suspension you will see your car lower. Park the car in your garage or on a quiet street and listen/watch. Upon start up, and once you put the car in gear it will trigger the compressor to level the car according to load, etc... This should happen everytime you start the car.

You can test whether or not the compressor is working or not by switching the car into 4L. According to the specs. of my 1999 Exp EB, the suspension will raise the car another inch.

Hope this helps....

sg

 

 

Ok I just bought a 2002. My air suspension, somtimes, just airs up then bleeds down. Now so you understand what I mean. The truck will be in the driveway, switched off, with no one in it. I can walk up to it, and it will be inflating and deflating. Lifting then lowering the back. I have seen it do it a few times now and feel confident it should not be. Any input would be appreciated. I am also going to contact the dealer in the morning. Thanks, Hippie.

 

> . . My air suspension, somtimes, just
>airs up then bleeds down. Now so you understand what I mean.
>The truck will be in the driveway, switched off, with no one
>in it. I can walk up to it, and it will be inflating and
>deflating. Lifting then lowering the back


I have noticed my '99 do this a couple times as well, I don't worry about it, maybe I should unless I intend on putting her in long term storage without driving it to rechage the battery I don't think I will.