Air Suspension System That Also Can Be Used to Fill Tires?

Question:

We have Firestone helper air bags on our F350s. we are looking for a system that is dual path auto leveling that the crew doesnt have to deal with. Is it possible to add an auxiliary air port that can be used to air up tires? Thanks!

asked by: Cameron

Expert Reply:

I have a solution for you, but I talked to my contact over at Air Lift about this and it really is not a cost effective solution because it would involve purchasing an additional tank and air compressor system to replace the system that is included, as well as wiring in solenoids, low pressure switches and re-wiring the system. The AirLift # AL25491 is a great system because it provides individualized inflation to each air bag in the system, but you would spend considerably more in parts and time spent doing labor than you did on the system itself to accomplish your goal of allowing the system to inflate tires, too.

Instead of going with the AirLift system, I recommend going with the Firestone Automatic Single Gauge Pneumatic Height-Control Valve w/ Compressor # F2186-2047 since it comes with a compressor and tank that has a 25 foot long extension hose for emergency tire inflation. This system works to automatically inflate and deflate the airbags on your Ford F-350s. The main difference between the Firestone and the AirLift is that with the Firestone system, the air bags will fill up with the same amount of air, so it doesn't compensate for differences in side to side height in the same manner that the AirLift does. Regardless of this, it's likely going to be the best solution available with all of the features you wanted.

If you preferred the AirLift system, which is understandable, you could just add a secondary air compressor like the Bulldog Winch Portable Air Compressor - 150 psi - 2.5 cfm Maximum Air Flow # BDW41003, which is suitable to fill tires up to 33" tall.

expert reply by: Erik B