Where to start with air bags?

zlock24 · Aug 3, 2015

I have a 2001 Ford F250 CCLB with a 7.3 6 speed that squats too much for my liking. With a full load on my dump trailer this truck will squat around 6 or so inches where as my previous 99 f250 would only squat about 2-3 inches. It is my understanding that airbags are the easiest solution to my problem, I'm just not sure where to start... Brands, options, compressor? What do you guys like to use the best? I use a weigh distributing hitch for my travel trailer, but it won't work for the dump trailer due to rough terrain and short hauls (most around 10 miles or so).

GreatWhitehunter · Aug 3, 2015

I'm a fan of Firestone RideRites for the bags themselves.
I prefer the Wireless Air Kit by Airlift for the system controls. I had this setup installed on my 2500HD and it worked flawlessly.

Matt

terryknight · Aug 3, 2015

i have firestone riderites and just use an air compressor at the shop to fill as needed. check to make sure you don't have any busted leaves in the rear. and you can also buy stiffer springs if you would rather go that route

swines · Aug 3, 2015

Your choices are Firestone RideRite or Airlift. I have had Air Lift. I have had Air Lift systems installed on all of my F350 trucks (1989, 1995, 2000, 2007, 2011). The latest version with the wireless remote is by far the best controller I have had.

As I'm sure you know, but worth repeating - the air bags don't increase the carrying capacity of the truck - only level it.

wmonroe · Aug 3, 2015

Pacbrake sells a nice air bag kit also.

STx · Aug 3, 2015

I have an '02 F250 CC, 7' bed. I'm think about to put this (Amazon.com: AIR LIFT 25415 SmartAir Automatic Leveling System: Automotive) and this (Amazon.com: Air Lift 88390 LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate Air Spring Kit with Internal Jounce Bumper: Automotive) on my truck. I want the convenience of setting the level I like and letting the kit adjust the bags for me.

cmyoung2 · Aug 3, 2015

I use Helwig air bags with an onboard Viair compressor on my 99 F250. Changed the regular bed to a flat dump bed, added about 600lbs, needed some help. Also added a 2 gal air tank, so I can inflate tires or use air for whatever I need. Works good to level load, either in the bed or trailers. Since I can raise and lower the rear of the truck, sometimes I can actually hook up to trailers without getting out but once. Rearview camera lets me see and watch the ball into the hitch. Very helpful on unlevel areas. Air bags were bolt on, compressor and tank took some brackets/bolts/welding, but no big deal.

zlock24 · Aug 4, 2015

Thanks guys, I was just unsure of what brands were preferred and y'all have been able answer my questions.

Just one more question - What short of psi would be normal to run the bags at while loaded?

cmyoung2 · Aug 5, 2015

zlock24 said:
Thanks guys, I was just unsure of what brands were preferred and y'all have been able answer my questions.

Just one more question - What short of psi would be normal to run the bags at while loaded?

Sometimes depends on the air bags. Mine have a minimum 5psi or warranty is void. I usually run mine at 20-25psi just to level it out and get the ride right. I think mine have a max of 100 psi, never had them above 60 psi with either loads of logs, firewood or 2 tons gravel.

terryknight · Aug 5, 2015

zlock24 said:
Just one more question - What short of psi would be normal to run the bags at while loaded?

i run mine ~10 as a minimum, as cmyoung stated there is a minimum psi you are supposed to keep. i have never been over ~45 with a bumper pull trailer. and running my GN depending on the load i have gone up to ~80