I have a few questions about load leveling air bags.....

1. How long have you had them?

2. How often do you use them?

3. What was your install time for your truck?

4. Has anyone ever had air bags last more than 10 years with regular use?

5. What was the cost of your set-up? (Please include parts and labor and brand name)

 

1. About 6 years (never had a leak)
2. They are always on at 10PSI so every day. I tow daily also and pump them as high as 60PSI depending on the load.
3. 20 minutes but I do this for a living
4. Our trucks wear out faster than 10 years. Our current bagged 2002 F350 has 265,000 miles. It won't last until 2012. (there are Lincoln Navigators that came with factory air suspension that are over 10 years old now) We also have 2 new Dodge duallies with air bags as well.
5. Firestone Ride Rite air bags are about 1 hrs labor (our rate is $75/hr) install and retail for around $250-300. Air Lift Super Duty air bags installation time is identical and price is $225-275

The real price kicker here is the price of the on-board compressor set up.
The Air Lift system is compatible with the Firestone bags and is almost 1/2 the price.

Installation of an on-board compressor and guage/switch takes as long or longer than installation of the bags themselves.

 

I just put mine in a couple of weeks ago. I got the firestone ride-rite from summit racing. It took me the better part of a Saturday but I'm not a mechanic. The worst part is the darn thread-lock nuts. They took forever to install.

Check out this thread I started on my ABs. I'm not really sure I like the ride with them.

https://www.f150online.com/forums/showthread.php?t=329562

 

Thanks for the info guys.

I'm considering some for my truck. I currently have 2 additional leaves installed on each spring pack in the back. I also have a hell-wig helper/overload kit installed that has 2 more leaves on top. That is a total of 5 leaf springs on each side plus the helper springs.

You get a very rough ride with this set-up. Add in load range E tires with 60 psi or so depending on the load and you have a pretty harsh ride. I was thinking the air bags might make for a more comfortable ride.

I don't have any problem with bounce or sway at all with my current set up. The truck only squats down about 1 1/2" when fully loaded. I regularly tow and haul right at and beyond my legal limits with no problems to mention.

 

Air bags in addition to the helpers and additional leafs?
No, it will ride worse.
Air bags instead of helpers and extra leafs, most definately will ride smoother.

 

I was thinking of the air bags as an alternative to the current set-up that I have.

Where did you guys mount the on board air compressor set-up? In the Bed? Under the truck?, Behind the seat? In the spare tire location? Space is an issue for me. Mounting the compressor set-up in the bed is NOT an option for me.

1998 F150, 5.4L, 3.55 LS, 8' bed, 4x4, 80k and counting.....

 

I mount them to the truck frame under the driver. That way you can run a 'T' at the pump to run a pressure gauge and switch inside the cab with ease. It also shortens the wires going to the pump.

Before mounting the compressor anywhere make sure you have enough hose to run it back to the bags or you won't be able to connect anything.

 

I have had them for one week.

Will need them quite often.

Kit including compressor and switches took about 5 hours. Mounted the compressor in the engine bay near on the drivers side. There is a perfect spot by the air intake.

Total Cost was $506.00. (parts only, installed myself)(Ride Rite)

Check out my install!

 

(to install)

I was telling the truth that the compressor and switch takes a lot longer than just a bag install.... I personally don't mind installing the bags, but the on-board compressors are a pain... every truck is different... and you need to pay close attention to what you are doing in the cab cutting holes or you can ruin a dash or interior. I never get enough labor to install the compressors... I usually short myself an hour or two.

 

The bags are easy to install! The compressor on the other hand not so much. It wouldn't have taken so long if I didn't get fancy with it, but my hobby is to make things look as cool as they are effective. LOL I often cut into my dash, slow and steady wins the race with that. Steady hand a new rotozip bit usually does the trick. Always cut the hole small and test fit then work your way out. You can cut to small but you can never cut to big!!! I install for myself and friends but it sounds like this is your job. You should definitely charge more for those compressor installs.