So, I finally got around to getting the airbags, and I threw them on today. I thought I might post a few pics of the install. This is my 5th install of RideRites on one of my GM trucks. I always go for the simple one line to each bag type of install, since there are rarely any issues with leaks, and it is just damn reliable that way.
Firestone continues to keep the hardware kit very simple, and I always add my own hardened flat washers, since they never include any washers. Just my own obsession there. That and I use antiseize on everything
The victim:
First, remove the jounce bumpers from the frame:
http://i1107.photobucket.com/albums/h385/alaskaLTZ/Truck/riderite006.jpg
Next, preassemble your bags onto the upper and lower brackets. You have to install the 3/8" bolt in the short end of the upper before bolting to the bag, or you won't get it in. Install the air fittings in the top of the bag:
I started on the right side, where my single exhaust is, so here is the assembled bag with the heat shield:
Place the assembly over the axle, below the frame. The bolt holes for the jounce bumpers that were removed will be the holes the upper brackets bolt through:
Now you can locate the hardware to secure the upper brackets to the frame. The fender washers go on top (the only washers they include in the kit):
Now, the saddle clamp for the axle, and the clamp around the spring pack can be loosely installed. I noted where the bag sat on the lower bracket, and secured the bottom convex bolt to hold the bag in the proper position. Go around the 4 nuts on the clamps, tightening alternately until secure:
Now for the lines. I feed them in from the rear, on each side, and slide the protective sleeve at the end where the bag connects. Take extra care when routing near exhaust, for obvious reasons.
I used a piece of 1/4" rubber fuel line to insulate and secure the air line in various places along the frame. I cut 1-2" pieces, slit them, and placed them around the air line. I then secured them with zip tyes.
I was going to avoid using the red zip tyes that came in the kit, so as not to make T's brain melt. Then, I thought it might be cool to see him bitch about it.
Grab your handy dandy unibit to pop some holes in the bumper!
Secure the schraeder valves in the bumper (or wherever you choose to mount them)
Hook up the lines!
Left side pic:
Now, just air them up, and soak everything with soapy water, and look for any leaks.
Firestone continues to keep the hardware kit very simple, and I always add my own hardened flat washers, since they never include any washers. Just my own obsession there. That and I use antiseize on everything
The victim:
First, remove the jounce bumpers from the frame:
http://i1107.photobucket.com/albums/h385/alaskaLTZ/Truck/riderite006.jpg
Next, preassemble your bags onto the upper and lower brackets. You have to install the 3/8" bolt in the short end of the upper before bolting to the bag, or you won't get it in. Install the air fittings in the top of the bag:
I started on the right side, where my single exhaust is, so here is the assembled bag with the heat shield:
Place the assembly over the axle, below the frame. The bolt holes for the jounce bumpers that were removed will be the holes the upper brackets bolt through:
Now you can locate the hardware to secure the upper brackets to the frame. The fender washers go on top (the only washers they include in the kit):
Now, the saddle clamp for the axle, and the clamp around the spring pack can be loosely installed. I noted where the bag sat on the lower bracket, and secured the bottom convex bolt to hold the bag in the proper position. Go around the 4 nuts on the clamps, tightening alternately until secure:
Now for the lines. I feed them in from the rear, on each side, and slide the protective sleeve at the end where the bag connects. Take extra care when routing near exhaust, for obvious reasons.
I used a piece of 1/4" rubber fuel line to insulate and secure the air line in various places along the frame. I cut 1-2" pieces, slit them, and placed them around the air line. I then secured them with zip tyes.
I was going to avoid using the red zip tyes that came in the kit, so as not to make T's brain melt. Then, I thought it might be cool to see him bitch about it.
Grab your handy dandy unibit to pop some holes in the bumper!
Secure the schraeder valves in the bumper (or wherever you choose to mount them)
Hook up the lines!
Left side pic:
Now, just air them up, and soak everything with soapy water, and look for any leaks.
