Want a level stance, but keep load capacity

[HomerJ]

I hope I'm saying this right.... I would like to lower the rear of my 67 LWB to sit more level. However, I occasionally haul a light load in the bed and I don't want the rear to sit too low when I do. Is there an "air ride"-type kit out there that will work with stock rear coils. I really don't want to trick this thing out with air bags, hydraulics, etc.

[C10-Driver]

The air bags would completely replace the coils. If you want to go cheap and easy, all you need is the air bags, 10 feet of plastic airline, and a couple of schrader valves. Hook up the bags to the airline and bring the valves out by the bumper (or wherever you prefer). Then, when you want to raise the vehicle or load it up, find the closest air compressor and pump up the bags manually with an air chuck. A friend of mine did this recently because he wanted to haul around a little Bohler trailer that he has and it is working out great for what he wanted.

[HomerJ]

Originally Posted by C10-Driver

The air bags would completely replace the coils. If you want to go cheap and easy, all you need is the air bags, 10 feet of plastic airline, and a couple of schrader valves. Hook up the bags to the airline and bring the valves out by the bumper (or wherever you prefer). Then, when you want to raise the vehicle or load it up, find the closest air compressor and pump up the bags manually with an air chuck. A friend of mine did this recently because he wanted to haul around a little Bohler trailer that he has and it is working out great for what he wanted.

C10-Driver,

Any idea what brand/part numbers your friend used? Everything that I have seen for the 67-72 rears has been for leaf springs.

Thanks for the info,
HomerJ

[panhandler62]

Originally Posted by C10-Driver

The air bags would completely replace the coils. If you want to go cheap and easy, all you need is the air bags, 10 feet of plastic airline, and a couple of schrader valves. Hook up the bags to the airline and bring the valves out by the bumper (or wherever you prefer). Then, when you want to raise the vehicle or load it up, find the closest air compressor and pump up the bags manually with an air chuck. A friend of mine did this recently because he wanted to haul around a little Bohler trailer that he has and it is working out great for what he wanted.

This made me nostalgic. I had air-shocks on my 71 Camaro in High School.

[C10-Driver]

Originally Posted by HomerJ

C10-Driver,

Any idea what brand/part numbers your friend used? Everything that I have seen for the 67-72 rears has been for leaf springs.

Thanks for the info,
HomerJ

I'm pretty sure he used a Firestone kit... I could find out for you if you like but I'm pretty sure the rear bags would be a Firestone 255c 2500lb or a Slam Specialties RE7. As far as the fittings and airline go, I had great luck at one of the local semi truck service shops. The big trucks use tons of air for everything from brakes to air-ride for the seats.

I would check first with the guys over at Suicide doors first (www.*****************). I haven't ever bought anything from them but have heard nothing but good things... They should be able to hook you up with what you need.

[HomerJ]

Originally Posted by C10-Driver

I would check first with the guys over at Suicide doors first (www.*****************).

C10,

Thanks for the link. There's lots to look at there.

HomerJ