Comparing Firestone and Air Lift Air Bags For a 2002 F-350 4x4 Dually With a 5TH Wheel Hitch

Question:

Looking at the air bags vs the leaf assist springs. Towing a 35ft 5th wheel. When loaded, the front overload will touch but not quite the rear. What would you recommend? I'm quite capable of installing either. did my own 5th wheel plate Thanks

asked by: Steve D

Expert Reply:

I recommend the Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate Air Helper Springs # AL88390 over the Firestone Ride-Rite # F2550 for your 2002 Ford F-350 Dually 4x4. The Air Lift springs have an internal jounce bumper that will help to better absorb road shock and vibration while loaded and will also provide some cornering stability for improved ride comfort. The jounce bumper will also protect the air bag in the event the air pressure drops to 0psi.

Both kits carry the same 5,000lb capacity, but understand that this will not increase your payload or trailering it will only help your stock suspension carry the load so that you are not riding on the overload spring while you are driving. They both also offer a no drill installation and will fit with an in bed 5th wheel hitch like the one you have on your F-350.

For either the Air Lift or Firestone kits I recommend installing the Air Lift WirelessAIR Compressor System # AL74000EZ. The kit will allow for you to control the air pressure in the air bags from either the included wireless remote or your smart phone. This allows you to adjust the air pressure while you drive from inside the cab or outside the vehicle so that you can watch the level of the suspension change. The smart manifold will also monitor the air pressure in each bag and keep the pressure to within 3psi of the setting, which allows you to keep your eyes on the road and not have to check the air pressure while you drive.

expert reply by: Bud M