Helper bags

Stealth · #1 06-06-2008, 10:13 PM

I think I am going to go the way of the helper bag. I have dropped the truck 2/4 with eibach leafs. When I haul any substantial weight my axle rests on the GF bumpstops. I really don't want to cut the bumpstops.

I know I have seen the McGaughy's helper bag kit, are there any others that will work with a leaf drop? How hard/simple are these kits to install?

Another thing. Are these aired up externally by an air chuck, just like tires are? If so I guess I could get a portable electric pump and keep it in the cavernous center console.

TIA.

Arca_ex · #2 06-07-2008, 02:07 AM

The McGaughy's kit is what I have and it helps out TONS when I have stuff in the bed or haul my camper since I have about 3 inches of travel in the back end.

It was a really simple install, just bolt it up. It's externally filled just like a tire. I have an air tank with a couple pressure guages for the bags and tank, and a switch. They're installed where the cigarette lighter used to be. I'm installing an onboard compressor with another switch in about a week.

gilbertma · #3 06-07-2008, 11:37 AM

I went with the McGaughy's after see pictures of Arca's last year because it mounted behind the axle. Every other bag seemed like it mounted on the axle or inboard of the axle and that space between the axle and frame is precious real estate when you have an axle flip. I'm also using the Belltech bump stops that are only about 1/2" deep because you need as much space there as possible. Mine have taken some pretty good hits and show no signs of damage. See the other threads for info on bag spacers when used on a flip.

Stealth · #4 06-07-2008, 11:43 AM

Mine's actually a 4" leaf drop so the McGaughy's kit is just about perfect for what I need. I just didn't know if there were any other kits available out there.

gilbertma · #5 06-07-2008, 01:06 PM

Ok- I thought you had a flip. 4" leafs are what it's made for so you should be good.

Stealth · #6 06-07-2008, 04:14 PM

Looks to be a simple install too, from looking at you two guys bag setups.

Arca_ex · #7 06-08-2008, 06:40 AM

Yeah the air assist install was the easiest part of my drop project.

flareside4life · #8 06-18-2008, 01:47 AM

Helper bags are the way to go. You can still use your truck as a truck, toss in a 1000 pounds worth of sh*t, fill the bags to 95 psi, and away you go.

I have the Air-Lift setup on mine, and love it. Easy install, and you can fill them up via a valve stem or compressor setup. (Compressors have been sitting on floor in room , just need to find time to do the install...)