Air bags - Montana Owners Club

tom41 · 06-02-2008, 02:48 PM

what type of air bags do you guys that have them recommend ? Thinking of installing something on my F350.
Tom

Devildog · 06-02-2008, 03:10 PM

I have the airlift 5000 bags, have used them for about 3 years. i didn't need them to hold the load, but to firm it up and reduce any yo-yo effect. Actually, they seem to work great as an antisway device when I am hooked up. Unhooked, about 5 lbs of air just to keep them somewhat active, and when towing, use anywhere from 30 lbs up to 50 lbs of air, but like it right around 40 lbs.

I did not add the air inflation system, but just set them manually with my air compressor. just takes a minute. but when I trade up to my next truck, I might consider adding the air tanks for inflation from inside the cab. But. it truly is a set and forget system. When I get to my destination, I let the air down. The evening before we head out, I fill them back up to the desired level and move out. If underway, it only takes a few minutes each side if I think I need a firmer ride to add some more air.

tom41 · 06-02-2008, 03:16 PM

Thanks Jim, I'm looking them up on the internet. I fulltime so I carry a lot of weight, for instance, a wood carving shop! lol thanks for the quick reply
Tom

dsprik · 06-02-2008, 05:04 PM

I have the Airlift air bags with the onboard compressor and in cab gauge. I love it except I have a low press (40# or less) air leak. I run 55# loaded with my 3400. I does not lose one psi at that pressure. Four days from FL to MI and not one pound of loss.

My dealer has 14 hours (2 days) of work on this system trying to find that leak over the past 12 months. I am on my way back to him tomorrow at 10 am. He talked to Airlift and they are sending him a new valve to install at the pump. We'll see how that works...

Waynem · 06-03-2008, 01:53 AM

I'm interested in adding the Air Lift (bag) to my F350 also. I might like to do it before I get back to Texas. Anyone know where in Central Massachusetts I can find a system?

Also, what brand, model, etc., should one purchase?

Tom, I hope this is still "on-topic."

dsprik · 06-03-2008, 02:43 AM

Wayne, check the Airlift web site for dealerships in your area. We happened across a snow plow dealer who installs snow plows. They, by default, install airbags - many times for the front axles of pickup trucks with heavier plows, but also the rear axles. Almost any shop that does this will handle Airlift.

Sorry if off topic...

tom41 · 06-03-2008, 03:46 AM

Thanks Dave for the feed back...Wayne, you are ok on this topic since I started it! lol, I'm not as particular as some for staying "on topic". Wayne hope you are enjoying your trip, I'm at crossville right now to do a show with my carvings. Take care
Tom

ols1932 · 06-03-2008, 04:59 AM

I had my airbags installed by CW in 2004. Sure helps with the load.

Orv

tom41 · 06-03-2008, 05:11 AM

Thanks Orv, I just notice other day mine was sitting a little lower then I wanted. LOL, all them dang birds!! and all my tools. I do have another question. What about the ones with on board air tank, since I already have and air compressor on board the monty?? Would I really need it in the cab? thanks
Tom

richfaa · 06-03-2008, 06:21 AM

We did use the airlift system on our previous truck, A Chebby, and they worked fine, never a problem. This 08 F-350 has the camper package and a 9K rated rear axle.. we do not have the need for a airlift system with our 3400.

Steve and Brenda · 06-03-2008, 06:41 AM

We use AirLifts, keep mine at 15 PSI when not towing, 50 PSI when towing. No chucking, no bouncing. My mom rode with us to Kerrville last week, did not feel any trailer behind us at all.

tom41 · 06-03-2008, 09:06 AM

thanks for the pics steve, I have Air Lifts ordered, they will arrive tomorrow. thanks for everyones info and for quick replies.
Tom

Waynem · 06-03-2008, 02:26 PM

Tom,
If you are in Crossville, TN, I hope you are staying at Deer Run RV Resort. What a nice place.

I'm new to this "air bag," thing. I'll look at the Airlift web site.

Question: Are the air bags installed only on the rear springs?

Waynem · 06-03-2008, 02:26 PM

Tom,
If you are in Crossville, TN, I hope you are staying at Deer Run RV Resort. What a nice place.

I'm new to this "air bag," thing. I'll look at the Airlift web site.

Question: Are the air bags installed only on the rear springs?

tom41 · 06-03-2008, 03:16 PM

Wayne I'm staying at the BeanPot campground. The owners are good friends of mine. But DeerRun is really a nice cg to and also a PPA. Yes they are on the rear of the truck . Mine will be here tomorrow. They said takes about 1 hr each side to install
Tom

simonsrf · 06-04-2008, 05:33 AM

Tom,

I have the airlift bags too. We are happy that we got the auto air compressor and inside switches.

You made a good choice.

JimF · 06-04-2008, 06:08 AM

I have the Air Lift system, installed myself, saved a bunch by ordering thru JC Whitney, they have been a good add. I have the tow package on my TV and it is a bit stiff, the air lift smoothes it out a bit for a better ride. Did not need them for additional lift but they can do it.

richfaa · 06-04-2008, 06:37 AM

I do not understand how the airlift system will reduce chucking??????

tom41 · 06-04-2008, 02:40 PM

Got the airlifts today, UPS didnt arrive till 4:30, so will see in the morning just how easy they go on! Dunno about taking care of any chucking, but if Steve says it helps I'll take his word for it.
Tom

cucalene · 06-04-2008, 05:24 PM

Rich, the air bags will lift the rear truck frame back to its normal driving height, this in turn will place more weight on the front axle and the truck will handle better. On my chevy the rear of my body drops 2 1/2 inches with my trailer attached and my front lifts one inch, which causes less steering ability and more pitching of the tow vehicle. I am thinking of adding the air bags also. Airlift are the ones that fit the new gm trucks. Tim

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