Recommendations on valve manifolds - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

VA72C10 · 11-08-2008, 03:58 PM

Looking for an 8 valve setup. Can get 8 3/8" SMC valves for 225 shipped and I don't want to spend much more for a manifold but understand it will be a cleaner install. Looking for advice on a reasonably priced one that won't need more maintenance than individual valves. Have heard about replacing O-rings regularly but I might be wrong. I have a dual 380 Viar setup w/ no controller setup yet. But can get a decent 7 function controller for around 50 bucks. Planning on using 4 slam specialties RE7 bags w/ 1/4" lines for slow, smooth operation so speed is NOT an issue. Would be willing to spend a little more to get a clean install and reliability (up to about 400 for valves w/ a controller or slightly higher if it's digital/leveling system) Any advice is greatly appreciated as I keep going back and forth on this but need to pull the trigger

ENHANCED AIR RIDE · 11-08-2008, 04:24 PM

we stock and install the Asco valves and the Accuair manifold block. I have great success with both no problems at all. The Ascos you can choose you size input as they are 3/8" NPT threard, the Accuair comes with 3/8 fittings pressed in. Both are great pieces, the Accuair is a cheaper piece and smaller.

VA72C10 · 11-08-2008, 04:37 PM

How is pricing on those...and controller options?

VA72C10 · 11-08-2008, 04:37 PM

Also, maintenence issues?

fastbagged68 · 11-08-2008, 06:42 PM

The accu-air valves are very clean and compact. I have done there new system in 2 cars now. It works so good!!!! It is with-in a 1/16" every time! I have there old system and am going to upgrade to there new system and valves. I have Extreme 1/2" Valves..... I don't like them. They get stuck, leak etc. The Accu Air do not leak! They sound cool too.

ENHANCED AIR RIDE · 11-08-2008, 07:43 PM

I have done about 12 installs so far with the Accuair and dozens with Asco, NO PROBLEMS!!!
You can use whatever type of controls you prefer, switches or digital controller.
Pricing is a bit more than regular 8-3/8 valves, but less plumbing, cleaner install, less chance of a leak, etc.

**scotts62** · 11-08-2008, 08:53 PM

Very cool!
Your a vendor its legal

, so what is the pricing for 3/8 and 1/2??

VA72C10 · 11-08-2008, 09:29 PM

Other opinions? I can get 8 smc valves for 220. I'm guessing this runs around 450. Is it really worth it besides being less plumbing?

ENHANCED AIR RIDE · 11-08-2008, 10:57 PM

Honestly as I stated before I swapped over to Asco valves 3 years ago exclusively from SMC due to sticking issues. I also like the Asco regular solenoid valves due to the fact I can get the in nickel finish for a showier look.
The Accuair I will do for $450 shipped to the forum members, thats $30 cheaper than Ebay and $50 less than retail.
The Ascos are $500 with the mounting brackets. The cool thing the Asco offers is color choice, you can split the manifolds into independent blocks or pair them into 2 separate pairs.
I have blue and silver Ascos in stock gold and red are also available and can usually drop ship no problem depending on stock.

VA72C10 · 11-09-2008, 12:23 AM

I noticed those pics are inside the vehicle...would it be way too loud to have the valves in the truck cab under/behind the seat (no gas tank and I will be building a custom box) Anyone do that?

jasonb72 · 11-09-2008, 05:20 PM

Do you have any pics of the blue and silver ones?

Quote:

Originally Posted by ENHANCED AIR RIDE

Honestly as I stated before I swapped over to Asco valves 3 years ago exclusively from SMC due to sticking issues. I also like the Asco regular solenoid valves due to the fact I can get the in nickel finish for a showier look.
The Accuair I will do for $450 shipped to the forum members, thats $30 cheaper than Ebay and $50 less than retail.
The Ascos are $500 with the mounting brackets. The cool thing the Asco offers is color choice, you can split the manifolds into independent blocks or pair them into 2 separate pairs.
I have blue and silver Ascos in stock gold and red are also available and can usually drop ship no problem depending on stock.

ENHANCED AIR RIDE · 11-09-2008, 12:28 AM

If its too loud you could plumb the dumps thru the floor. The top setup is in the cubby hole in an El Camino, and its not that bad. Just depends on your likeness!

VA72C10 · 11-09-2008, 12:44 AM

Thanks for all the info!

VA72C10 · 11-09-2008, 02:33 AM

What about maintenancing the valve block? How do you do that? How hard is it, how expensive, and how often will i need to? Thanks!

jlaird · 11-09-2008, 09:45 AM

the pic of the stainless braided, is that fuel line with AN fittings or something specifically for air?

**scotts62** · 11-09-2008, 01:35 PM

Thats a clean setup there looks good!

ENHANCED AIR RIDE · 11-09-2008, 04:40 PM

Thanx Scott!!! Its braided SS over teflon tube. Its what I use for the custom a/c installs.
No real maintenance necessary if you use a drier from the tank to the valve or if u use nitrogen setup.

ENHANCED AIR RIDE · 11-09-2008, 05:40 PM

The blue is actually darker kinda like a Russel AN fitting.

bagged69c10 · 11-09-2008, 07:36 PM

I helped a friend install the ACCUAIR manifold on his magnum and it is by far worth the extra money. You also have to factor in the prices of all the nipples and Ts and PTC fittings you would have to buy if you use individuals.

VA72C10 · 11-09-2008, 07:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bagged69c10

I helped a friend install the ACCUAIR manifold on his magnum and it is by far worth the extra money. You also have to factor in the prices of all the nipples and Ts and PTC fittings you would have to buy if you use individuals.

I appreciate the feedback...It will run about 200 more total for this setup vs. valves when figuring out the fittings as well. Do you know about the maintenence required....is it monthly, yearly? Thanks.

VA72C10 · 11-13-2008, 04:39 PM

Still haven't gotten any answers on maintenance pros and cons to manifolds. Appreciate any info. Thanks in advance!

AceX · 11-14-2008, 04:57 AM

He answered that already. no maintenance so long as water doesn't get into the system.

VA72C10 · 11-14-2008, 12:04 PM

Thanks, Somehow missed that. I don't understand then why I've heard so many people say they have to constantly change o-rings. Improper installation or no dryer i guess??? or cheaper manifolds?

**scotts62** · 11-14-2008, 01:02 PM

If you can mount out of weather and stuff it will last a long time

VA72C10 · 11-14-2008, 01:06 PM

So if i mounted it in the cab and ran line from the exhaust ports out of the cab would it be very loud? I saw the above post but how loud are we talking? Too loud if my wife's or one of my young daughters are riding with me when we cruise? Also, what size line should be run for the exhaust...I think I'm gonna go w. 1/4" for a slow, smooth raise, but should I do 1/4 for a slow dump as well?

11-08-2008, 03:58 PM	#1
VA72C10 VA72C10 Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Midlothian, VA Posts: 25,267	Recommendations on valve manifolds Looking for an 8 valve setup. Can get 8 3/8" SMC valves for 225 shipped and I don't want to spend much more for a manifold but understand it will be a cleaner install. Looking for advice on a reasonably priced one that won't need more maintenance than individual valves. Have heard about replacing O-rings regularly but I might be wrong. I have a dual 380 Viar setup w/ no controller setup yet. But can get a decent 7 function controller for around 50 bucks. Planning on using 4 slam specialties RE7 bags w/ 1/4" lines for slow, smooth operation so speed is NOT an issue. Would be willing to spend a little more to get a clean install and reliability (up to about 400 for valves w/ a controller or slightly higher if it's digital/leveling system) Any advice is greatly appreciated as I keep going back and forth on this but need to pull the trigger __________________ Looking for a 67-72 swb or blazer project in or around VA.

11-08-2008, 04:24 PM	#2
ENHANCED AIR RIDE Registered User Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Largo, Florida Posts: 158	Re: Recommendations on valve manifolds we stock and install the Asco valves and the Accuair manifold block. I have great success with both no problems at all. The Ascos you can choose you size input as they are 3/8" NPT threard, the Accuair comes with 3/8 fittings pressed in. Both are great pieces, the Accuair is a cheaper piece and smaller. Attached Images

11-08-2008, 04:37 PM	#3
VA72C10 VA72C10 Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Midlothian, VA Posts: 25,267	Re: Recommendations on valve manifolds How is pricing on those...and controller options? __________________ Looking for a 67-72 swb or blazer project in or around VA.

11-08-2008, 04:37 PM	#4
VA72C10 VA72C10 Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Midlothian, VA Posts: 25,267	Re: Recommendations on valve manifolds Also, maintenence issues? __________________ Looking for a 67-72 swb or blazer project in or around VA.

11-08-2008, 06:42 PM	#5
fastbagged68 Registered User Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: Tri Valley California Posts: 792	Re: Recommendations on valve manifolds The accu-air valves are very clean and compact. I have done there new system in 2 cars now. It works so good!!!! It is with-in a 1/16" every time! I have there old system and am going to upgrade to there new system and valves. I have Extreme 1/2" Valves..... I don't like them. They get stuck, leak etc. The Accu Air do not leak! They sound cool too.

11-08-2008, 07:43 PM	#6
ENHANCED AIR RIDE Registered User Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Largo, Florida Posts: 158	Re: Recommendations on valve manifolds I have done about 12 installs so far with the Accuair and dozens with Asco, NO PROBLEMS!!! You can use whatever type of controls you prefer, switches or digital controller. Pricing is a bit more than regular 8-3/8 valves, but less plumbing, cleaner install, less chance of a leak, etc.

11-08-2008, 08:53 PM	#7
scotts62 One day... Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Tuttle, Ok Posts: 9,243	Re: Recommendations on valve manifolds Very cool! Your a vendor its legal , so what is the pricing for 3/8 and 1/2?? __________________ Scott 93 crew cab build Project 62

11-08-2008, 09:29 PM	#8
VA72C10 VA72C10 Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Midlothian, VA Posts: 25,267	Re: Recommendations on valve manifolds Other opinions? I can get 8 smc valves for 220. I'm guessing this runs around 450. Is it really worth it besides being less plumbing? __________________ Looking for a 67-72 swb or blazer project in or around VA.

11-08-2008, 10:57 PM	#9
ENHANCED AIR RIDE Registered User Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Largo, Florida Posts: 158	Re: Recommendations on valve manifolds Honestly as I stated before I swapped over to Asco valves 3 years ago exclusively from SMC due to sticking issues. I also like the Asco regular solenoid valves due to the fact I can get the in nickel finish for a showier look. The Accuair I will do for $450 shipped to the forum members, thats $30 cheaper than Ebay and $50 less than retail. The Ascos are $500 with the mounting brackets. The cool thing the Asco offers is color choice, you can split the manifolds into independent blocks or pair them into 2 separate pairs. I have blue and silver Ascos in stock gold and red are also available and can usually drop ship no problem depending on stock. Attached Images

11-09-2008, 12:23 AM	#10
VA72C10 VA72C10 Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Midlothian, VA Posts: 25,267	Re: Recommendations on valve manifolds I noticed those pics are inside the vehicle...would it be way too loud to have the valves in the truck cab under/behind the seat (no gas tank and I will be building a custom box) Anyone do that? __________________ Looking for a 67-72 swb or blazer project in or around VA.

11-09-2008, 12:28 AM	#12
ENHANCED AIR RIDE Registered User Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Largo, Florida Posts: 158	Re: Recommendations on valve manifolds If its too loud you could plumb the dumps thru the floor. The top setup is in the cubby hole in an El Camino, and its not that bad. Just depends on your likeness!

11-09-2008, 12:44 AM	#13
VA72C10 VA72C10 Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Midlothian, VA Posts: 25,267	Re: Recommendations on valve manifolds Thanks for all the info! __________________ Looking for a 67-72 swb or blazer project in or around VA.

11-09-2008, 02:33 AM	#14
VA72C10 VA72C10 Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Midlothian, VA Posts: 25,267	Re: Recommendations on valve manifolds What about maintenancing the valve block? How do you do that? How hard is it, how expensive, and how often will i need to? Thanks! __________________ Looking for a 67-72 swb or blazer project in or around VA.

11-09-2008, 09:45 AM	#15
jlaird Senior Member Join Date: May 2004 Location: johnstown, NY Posts: 2,393	Re: Recommendations on valve manifolds the pic of the stainless braided, is that fuel line with AN fittings or something specifically for air?

11-09-2008, 01:35 PM	#16
scotts62 One day... Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Tuttle, Ok Posts: 9,243	Re: Recommendations on valve manifolds Thats a clean setup there looks good! __________________ Scott 93 crew cab build Project 62



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11-09-2008, 04:40 PM	#17
ENHANCED AIR RIDE Registered User Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Largo, Florida Posts: 158	Re: Recommendations on valve manifolds Thanx Scott!!! Its braided SS over teflon tube. Its what I use for the custom a/c installs. No real maintenance necessary if you use a drier from the tank to the valve or if u use nitrogen setup.

11-09-2008, 05:40 PM	#18
ENHANCED AIR RIDE Registered User Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Largo, Florida Posts: 158	Re: Recommendations on valve manifolds The blue is actually darker kinda like a Russel AN fitting. Attached Images

11-09-2008, 07:36 PM	#19
bagged69c10 soon to be bagged64sub Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: DFW-currently phoenix Posts: 635	Re: Recommendations on valve manifolds I helped a friend install the ACCUAIR manifold on his magnum and it is by far worth the extra money. You also have to factor in the prices of all the nipples and Ts and PTC fittings you would have to buy if you use individuals. __________________ 1969 c-10, bagged, Zd, 20" Boyds SOLD! 1964 Suburban COMING SOON Build threadhttp://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=304726 1965 c-10 long bed 1993 Sierra x-cab 1999 tahoe-4/5 on 22s 2005 Chevy work truck

11-13-2008, 04:39 PM	#21
VA72C10 VA72C10 Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Midlothian, VA Posts: 25,267	Re: Recommendations on valve manifolds Still haven't gotten any answers on maintenance pros and cons to manifolds. Appreciate any info. Thanks in advance! __________________ Looking for a 67-72 swb or blazer project in or around VA.

11-14-2008, 04:57 AM	#22
AceX >130dB Moderator Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Sacramento, CA Posts: 2,130	Re: Recommendations on valve manifolds He answered that already. no maintenance so long as water doesn't get into the system. __________________ Living Life @ 130dB LED Tail Light Conversion; How-to Friend. Father. Brother. RIP El Jay ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CLICK HERE and for less than $0.07 a day, you too can help support and build a better forum.

11-14-2008, 12:04 PM	#23
VA72C10 VA72C10 Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Midlothian, VA Posts: 25,267	Re: Recommendations on valve manifolds Thanks, Somehow missed that. I don't understand then why I've heard so many people say they have to constantly change o-rings. Improper installation or no dryer i guess??? or cheaper manifolds? __________________ Looking for a 67-72 swb or blazer project in or around VA.

11-14-2008, 01:02 PM	#24
scotts62 One day... Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Tuttle, Ok Posts: 9,243	Re: Recommendations on valve manifolds If you can mount out of weather and stuff it will last a long time __________________ Scott 93 crew cab build Project 62

11-14-2008, 01:06 PM	#25
VA72C10 VA72C10 Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Midlothian, VA Posts: 25,267	Re: Recommendations on valve manifolds So if i mounted it in the cab and ran line from the exhaust ports out of the cab would it be very loud? I saw the above post but how loud are we talking? Too loud if my wife's or one of my young daughters are riding with me when we cruise? Also, what size line should be run for the exhaust...I think I'm gonna go w. 1/4" for a slow, smooth raise, but should I do 1/4 for a slow dump as well? __________________ Looking for a 67-72 swb or blazer project in or around VA. Last edited by VA72C10; 11-14-2008 at 01:09 PM.

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