Question for you guys with bags... I want to run the simplest compressor/valve setup that I can. I just want the truck to go up and down. I don't care about fast or individual wheel movement. I just want simplicity and reliability. I've been searching around and everyone is FBSS 2 dual-needle gauges with 8 valves. I just want it to ride good, look good, and be reliable. I also am in tight constraints on space. Everything has to fit in front of the axle including the 4-link. I'd prefer to not have to run miles of airline... In this setup, I wasn't sure where to run the valve(s). I'm not sure where to pull the pressure for the gauges (or if I need gauges). I was reading somewhere that T'ing two bags together forces pressure to the opposite bag when you hit a bump which could cause problems. Furthermore, I don't know what I need concerning filters/oilers, etc. Any suggestions are helpful. I was thinking something like this...
For simpleist u can just run 4 valves. Which would give you front an back. For the 4link you can run a forward bag on bar You want the valves as close to the bags as possible becuz it will you less air pressure to lift. You don't need a gauge but it's better to have one so you can kno what pressure your running at. You don't need an oiler but for a filter it's good to run them just so it keeps debris outta the system. For a compressor I'd go with viair. I have two for my truck very reliable.
It is true that air will transfer between bags with a T in a 4 valve setup. This won't be so noticeable just hitting an occasional bump, but can make the truck handle very loosely. You would, at this point, be relying totally on the sway bar(s) to control body roll. I believe that to handle properly, you would be best to do an 8 valve setup with just a few switches. A set of guages are ideal so that when you set your ride height, you are consistent (this helps with tire wear once you have gotten an alignment.)
yeah, I knew the air pressure set the ride height. And camber/caster/toe all change with that geometry. I do alignments and suspension work for a living... I'm just starting to get into air suspension though, so I'm researching and starting to buy parts. As for valves... How about this? And, do I need any check valves? I've seen them on trucks, but I didn't know if they were important...
Don't tee your valves= bad handling! I run 8 valves (Asco's) & made up & installed the valve manifolds somewhat close to the the bags so I could run check valves for safety reasons. I use check valves from McMaster-Car as these are quality items (also inline on the leader hoses)as the stock ones fail!! I run 2- Viair 380 compressors & 2 6 gal. tanks,all brass push to connect fittings & 3/8 line. Plan your system out well & use quality items,this is your suspension!!
I agree. I want to use quality parts. I just don't want to make the system more complicated than it needs to be. Here's what I'm buying today: Bridge (top and bottom bag brackets, 10" notch, crossbars, top shock mounts) inline water trap Lower shock relocating tabs SMC check valves (3) Looks like the next step is a parallel 4-link and panhard rod. Then, it is Fill and dump valves, compressors (probably run 2...), Pressure switch, valve brackets, air gauges and gauge air line, wire, air tank, air line, bags, and a switchbox. I just want a couple of switches (front fill and dump, rear fill and dump). Am I missing anything (Other than spare parts?) Right now I'm doing the rear. Once the rear is done, I will start worrying about the front. This stuff gets expensive fast... But, I think it will be worth it. I haven't bought anything yet, so if anyone has any suggestions, I hope they pipe up. I need to buy this stuff today (15% off everything at suicidedoors.com). I was going to buy airlift dominator 2600 bags. Any suggestions? And, what do you guys think about this kit? http://www.suicidedoors.com/air-management/air-management-kits/viair-480-starter-kit-38
Here is the link on SSM to my build thread. Sounds like you are wanting the excate same system I wanted and got, very simple and reliable. I do not know a-lot of technical specifics so I will let the visual aid be my help. All parts are from Suicide doors and it is a very reliable system, my gauges are even in the stock gauge locatioin as the oil and volts were. I hope this helps you out Pete http://www.streetsource.com/forum/topic.aspx?topic_id=106153&page=-2
Just want to add,don't use plumbing pipe,see this done a lot! It is not meant to be used for air pressure,not to mention it does not look very professional!
