installing air bags

nyplumber · August 10, 2012

My 2011 silverado z71 1500 seems to squat quite a bit when I have the bed loaded up with misc stuff and also when camper is attached with loaded bed all loaded for camping. I was talking with a friend about the truck and he said that installing air bags under the rear tires were the solution. What is everyone elses take on this? Will installing them have any negative effect?, will it void the warranty? do I have to worry about something rupturing them, like a branch? Ideally I would have bought a 2500 hd but do not use it enough to justify extra cost, also do not do any plowing. I think that the 1500 suits me just fine but would like to increase suspension a little bit. Any feedback would be appreciated. Thanks!

8.1HD/ALLISON · August 11, 2012

Air bags will help the squating. You can adjust the air pressure to what you are hauling. They are pretty stout, but you could rupture them with a branch if you get offroad alot. Another option is an add a leaf for the rear.

Zembonez · August 11, 2012

I'm running air adjustable shocks on mine (but it's lowered). They work really well when you need to add weight.

kstruckcountry · August 11, 2012

Air bags are pretty nice, the best part is that they don't give a hard ride if you don't want them to. I've never seen one ruptured, since they mount between the frame and axle, they're pretty well out of the way.

nyplumber · August 11, 2012

I'm pretty sure I'm gonna go ahead and get them. Firestone looks like the best bet plus they are made in the U.S. Found a couple of websites with good pricing. My only concern is if installing them will void the warranty from GM. I cant see why it would, called the dealer and the person I spoke to at service department was not sure. Anyone know the answer?

ruggedlife · August 12, 2012

there's no way it could void any warranty there's nothing for it to void

edit: unless you really really overload your truck and snap an axle. still use judgement don't go throwing 30 fat chicks in the bed thinking you can just pump up the air bags and it'll be ok

bigb9298 · September 7, 2012

I am putting firestones on my 2011 CC Sierra

SouthCo · September 7, 2012

I was looking at putting some Firestone Airbags on mine too. Is the part# 2430? And who has the best price on them? Thanks.

lilnasty · September 8, 2012

I love my firestone bags. I rarely have to pressure them up for most of my loads. They lifted the rear end 1/2" though, even with 5psi (Min recommended). That gave me too much rake after I installed my TGC 2.5" leveling kit and 2" blocks in the rear. Oh well, that's life.

chevy913 · September 9, 2012

what do you guys think of the air lift ride control setup? Summit has the kits for $232 with free shipping and handling and a $50 mail in rebate?

bigb9298 · September 11, 2012

I got mine from Summit Racing!!!!! 289.00

what do you guys think of the air lift ride control setup? Summit has the kits for $232 with free shipping and handling and a $50 mail in rebate?

I heard that the air lift brand is not as good as the Firestone brand. I am putting them in tomorrow.

Chris · September 11, 2012

I did some searching Hellwig looks like a good air spring

BlackZ71Silverado · September 11, 2012

If you want airbags, Firestone is the way to go.

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nyplumber · September 12, 2012

I got the Firestone 2430. Bought them at Suspension Connection.com They were $275.03 no tax and free ship. Did not get them installed yet but delivery was prompt and NIB. Was hoping to get them installed before last camping trip of season but that did not happen. Probably will have to wait for a while now but am very confident with my choice. A friend recomended both the air bags and website. He is very pleased with his.

Mossyoakglock · September 14, 2012

What would be the downside of not keeping the minimum 5 psi in the bags when not towing? It seems that having no air in the bags would not be a problem and be like you didn't have them on.