Air Bag message boards???

[XXL]

Originally posted by 70 Jimmy
Remember, teflon tape is used as a lubricant on the threads. IT IS NOT A SEALANT, though it does have some sealing properties. I can't tell you the number of times I've seen people throw teflon tape on fittings and not tighten them down because " The tape will seal it up".

I prefer to use thread dope instead of teflon tape. It acts as both a lubricant and a sealer.

Also, when using the quick release fittings like the Prestolocks, I use a bushing in the end of the plastic line to keep it from bending or crushing at the fitting end... either of which will give you a bad seal. As I said earlier, my truck sat up for several months during a north Texas fall (cool mornings, hot afternoons-- lots of air density changes inside the system) a couple of years ago and it didn't lose ANY air whatsoever.

And... about the RideTech valves, they have the ability to "self clean" to some extent in that when the valve is opened, air pushes out through the orifice and can help keep it clean. A typical spool valve, when it kicks the axle one way or the other, can create buildup at those side-to-side stopping points if your air supply isn't nice and clean. And they are less able to self-clean because the air supply doesn't blow across these points, but rather it blows through the vanes on the axle itself.

Kenneth