Air shocks

[hunter34]

I have a 2001 Ford Explorer w/ 5.0L V-8 I use this truck to pull a 21 FT. Skeeter Baypro boat, When I hook up the trailor, the back of the truck comes down a little to much. The rear of this truck rides low with no wieght on it, and I,ve noticed this with other Explorers. I was thinking of adding air shocks to the back. Can anyone give me any information on this. Thanks Very Much.

 

[Major Woods]

Re: Air shocks

You might want to consider air lifts instead of air shocks.<br /> http://www.airliftcompany.com/new-index/Frameset.htm

 

[KM2]

Re: Air shocks

Been considering them for my Expedition. Actually air bags that go into the coil springs. <br /><br />I know the rubber coil spring spacers don't work. <br /><br />Anybody tried some of this stuff to help with sag.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Air shocks

Either air shocks or the air bags work well but have some inherent problems. Air shocks gather dust and debris that eventually causes the rubber sleeve that creates the seal between the upper and lower half of the shock to leak. There is no fix and they must be replaced. Air bags have a similar problem. Air springs are a better alternative although more expensive. If your travel is primarily paved roads, the air shocks or bags will probably provide acceptable service but plan on replacing at least one of them every couple of years or so. But then they may outlast the vehicle so you just take a chance.

 

[jeff_nicholas]

Re: Air shocks

I've used these:<br /><br /> http://www.airliftcompany.com/new-index/Frameset.htm <br /><br />and swear by them. Got over 5 years of service from a pair on my Crown Vic pulling an 18' boat.<br /><br />Simple to install, relatively inexpensive and bulletproof -- pump 'em up when you're towing, ease off the pressure when you're not.

 

[watered down]

Re: Air shocks

I had the same problem with my 2004 4Runner. It pulls my boat great, but too much sag. I think Toyota makes the suspension too soft to ride more like a car. Anyway, I got a set of Timbrens and they work great. They don't effect your everyday drive. They only come into play when the truck is loaded. Installed in about 15mins each side. All you do is take off the rubber bump stop above the axle and install them there.<br /><br />Boat is 21'7", abour 4800lbs with trailer:<br />

 

[bubbakat]

Re: Air shocks

Watered down is right on the money here with the Timbrenes. I added a set to my 99 dodge 1500 and when I hook my 27 ft travel trailer up it sags very little. They are easy to install and no maintance what so ever. The only time I feel them without the load on is when I cross at least 3 sets of railroad tracks.

 

[craze1cars]

Re: Air shocks

A wieght distribution hitch would be another good alternative. They make some that work now even if you have hydraulic surge brakes (in the past this was sometimes an issue for boats...no more.) Here's one:<br /><br /> http://www.mrtruck.net/wdhboats.htm