Air Bag installation, really easy?

[ATMINF]

I was thinking of getting the Firestone or Air Lift 5000, air bag systems for my truck. By looking at the instructions it looks fairly easy and something that can be done in the driveway in a day. Is it really that easy? Also I understand that you can also get a add-on compressor, but I already have a little craftsman air compressor I carry with me in the truck so, I did not think it was necessary. What are people’s real world thoughts and experiences? Thanks!

[txab]

Pretty easy, yes.

[ATMINF]

I see this is getting a lot of info here.

[Chris]

People frequent this section a lot. Give it some time. I contemplated the system myself. I agree it looks easy and should be under a day in the driveway with a good set of hand tools. I wouldn't get a compressor just because I have one at home and at my boss' house. So when I hook to a trailer I can see before I leave if it will need to be leveled. I have been in a 02 1500 with them installed, it calms the rear down a little when unloaded and helps control the weight while towing

[ATMINF]

Roger, thanks!

[ohenryx]

Back in the day, I pulled a very heavy 5th wheel travel trailer with a 2000 Ford F250 SuperDuty Diesel. The hitch weight was about 1200 pounds, and made for a noticeable sag. I installed the air lifts, and it was a very good investment. The brackets in the wheel well for the 5th wheel hitch were in the way when I went to install the air lifts, and caused some problems, but I still got it done in one day. And that was working in my driveway, with hand tools and an electric drill.

 

As to the "on board air pump", no, I would say that is superfluous. I routed the lines to the rear bumper, drilled holes right above the license plate and mounted there. The amount of air needed to inflate the air lifts is really, really small. You could easily do it with a hand (bicycle) pump. Just remember to always keep the minimum amount of air pressure (8 lbs as I recall).

[thearborbarber]

Install is very easy and can be done in your driveway. Just have to be able to pull the tires off. I never got an air compressor for mine. Those small 12v portable ones work well. A person doesn't adjust air pressure alot anyway.

[ATMINF]

Yup ,I got some airlift5000 and the install was not too bad. Thanks!

[stefman722]

Super easy. I did it myself in about 5 hours. But only took that long because I was talking away to friends while doing it.