Firestone Ride Rite Air Bags

[ols1932]

quote:Originally posted by dieselguy

Youse guys that run the same pressure loaded or not ... how do you keep the fillings in your teeth and disks between your vertebrae?

Well, I consider the fact that I'm driving a truck, not a Cadillac. My truck rides the same with the air bags inflated as it did without the air bags.

Orv

[Champ_49]

quote:Originally posted by grayghost03

I run 10psi empty and 35 to 40psi when pulling, and yep the front does drop alittle, so just subtract the front drop from rear drop and inflate to that measurement to achieve factory level. Your front end alignment will thank you.

The very reason I got the air bags was for the front end allignment. I had a pair of Michelin M/S 2 on the front with 30,000 miles on them and the outside edge of both tires were showing signs of truck raised in the front and the camber of the tires leaning out at the top which would give you excessive tire wear. So I got the air bags, a new set of Michelins, and now trying to figure out the pressure. Had a lot of good advice here and that should work out just fine.

Once again, thank you all!!

Dave

[Art-n-Marge]

That old guy that talks too much is a windbag. Air bags are slightly different but they help my truck to make the windbag driver enjoy the ride. In my case they were a significant improvement and are the best to correct headlight aim.

I run 10-15# when empty. If I'm carrying cargo (not at max GVWR) then I'll go up to 40-50#. When towing or carrying at max CCC I'll use 50 to 65# depending on how I want the ride, the load, or if it's day or night (needs higher # to prevent blinding any oncoming traffic). I use the measurement method to determine the number to start with (I like the bubble level idea). I have the in cab digital remote so I can change on the fly, but only do this when stopped and evenly on each side alternating side to side at about 5# increments.

We love our air bags!!! Even DW noticed the improved ride (note I said improved, not Cadillac-like).

[Chasnracin]

Is anyone using an on-board remote air pump for the Firestone airbags?

[bw2]

Yes, I have it installed and it works well. I have the single gauge.

[Ren]

quote:Originally posted by Chasnracin

Is anyone using an on-board remote air pump for the Firestone airbags?

Yep. Works like a champ. Heres a link to my write-up.

http://5thwheeladventures.com/airbags.html

[Art-n-Marge]

I am using this Airlift digital controller with my Firestone airbags. I took the picture with my truck not running but when the truck is turned on the LCD shows both the left side and the right side respectively:



The +/- buttons are used to inflate/deflate each side but not at the same time. I have a single compressor attached to the underside truck frame and the alternating buttons will inflate each side using the same compressor.

[Champ_49]

I am using the Air Lift compressor with remote control.

[Chasnracin]

Thanks for the suggestions. I know one of the local shops here installs an on-board system, but I cannot remember which brand it is. I'll have to check and see and report back. I think it will be worth the extra $ to have the on-board system, at least for me. This thing rides like a log truck already:-)

[Dave Nowlin]

I put the Firestone Air Bags on my truck last fall and now I have put the Air Lift Wireless One compressor system on. I think I'm really going to like it. I'll get to test it the 8th of June when we head out for Destin and Topsail Hill.

[Artemus Gordon]

Just repeating what others have said. I keep at least 10 # all the time. I never been above 30 with new Montana. My F450 was a chassis truck before conversion and was told going over 30 is not necessary. It also makes the truck and trailer look unlevel, 30 # seems to appear right. Frankly I am not sure what looking right, looks like! Other fiver owners and RV shops, (3) say it looks right.

[oldgeezor]

Just installed my 'Ride-Rite' airbags. Took a little longer than the listed 1-2 hours because I didn't have a hoist..used tire jack to raise frame a little. Currently set at 40 lbs. Didn't install the on-board compressor due to expense.

[Dave Nowlin]

Well start saving your pennies because eventually you'll probably want the compressor. Air Lift has been having a sale at Sdtrucksprings.com There is also a $50 rebate on the compressor. I got the WirelessOne for $312 I like not having to mount a guage in the truck.

[Champ_49]

quote:Originally posted by Dave Nowlin

Well start saving your pennies because eventually you'll probably want the compressor. Air Lift has been having a sale at Sdtrucksprings.com There is also a $50 rebate on the compressor. I got the WirelessOne for $312 I like not having to mount a guage in the truck.

X2