Comparing Air Shocks and Air Bags for a 2004 Ford F-150

Question:

Need information regarding air shocks vs. air bags for F150 5.4 XLT truck.

asked by: Tony N

Expert Reply:

I'd be more than happy to assist you in figuring out whether you'd rather install air shocks or air bags on your 2004 Ford F-150!

From my understanding the difference between both systems is that the air shocks will replace components of your OEM suspension while the air bags just replace the factory bump stop which is essentially just a small piece of rubber that keeps your leaf springs/axle from making direct contact with your vehicle frame. Aside from that they can be monitored and adjusted the exact same so I recommend going with the air bags so you'll still be using all of your OEM suspension parts.

For air bags I recommend the Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 which is part # AL88228 for a 2x4 or part # AL88200 for a 4x4. Air bag kits come with ports so you can manually fill them like a tire so I typically recommend picking up an air compressor kit like the Air Lift Load Controller II # AL25592 so you can easily monitor and adjust the air bag pressure on the go.

I personally like the air bag kits more since they can be adjusted for whatever load you're carrying but it really boils down to how much you tow and how much money you're willing to spend on your truck.

Attached are some review and installation videos for you to check out.