Troubleshooting Leakages On Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Shocks on Ford F-150

Question:

Installed a Ride-Rite Firestone on my F-150. The push to connect inflation valve leaks. We cut the hose off straight more than enough times, cleaned it up and it still leaks. Could the inflation valve be faulty?

asked by: Darren

Helpful Expert Reply:

For your Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs, you can check the fittings for air leaks with an applied solution of soap and water. If a leak is detected, deflate the air spring by depressing the valve core. The tubing can easily be removed from the fittings by pushing the collar on the fitting towards the body of the fitting while pulling out the tube.

Next, check the tubing connection to ensure that the air tubing is cut as square as possible and that it is pushed completely into the fitting. For this, I recommend a Tubing Cutter # AL10530. If a leak is detected where the air fitting screws into the air spring, gently tighten the air fitting into the spring until the leak stops.

Also, check the core of the inflation valve. This valve core can be tightened using the cap. Reinflate the air spring and check for leaks again if needed.

There is also the chance that, through regular operation, you could lose 3-4 psi of air pressure per week with a psi of 50. You will want to check your springs frequently to ensure that is not the case.

expert reply by: Brandon M