air bag placement

[jmsaunders]

I apologize if this has been asked but I searched and couldn't really find an answer. I have been side tracked on my 54 project and I'm about ready to tackle the suspension on it now (had to save up money lol). Anyway I've decided to weld in the crossmember and trailing arm set up from a 67-72 C10. I also plan on installing air bags (firestone 9000 sleeve bags 1500lb, 1/4" port). My question is for best ride quality where should I place them? I have a 72 C10 that I do my hauling with so losing load capacity is not a major concern.

A) behind axle
B) over axle
C) on trailing arm at stock coil spring location
D) Farther forward on trailing arm

[jimmydean]

From my understanding, the best ride comes from the stock location, but I've never had a truck with bags over axle, just heard the ride is worse.

[shawno72]

Interested as well.
Posted via Mobile Device

[cubber]

Originally Posted by jmsaunders

I apologize if this has been asked but I searched and couldn't really find an answer. I have been side tracked on my 54 project and I'm about ready to tackle the suspension on it now (had to save up money lol). Anyway I've decided to weld in the crossmember and trailing arm set up from a 67-72 C10. I also plan on installing air bags (firestone 9000 sleeve bags 1500lb, 1/4" port). My question is for best ride quality where should I place them? I have a 72 C10 that I do my hauling with so losing load capacity is not a major concern.

A) behind axle
B) over axle
C) on trailing arm at stock coil spring location
D) Farther forward on trailing arm

Stock location, definitely. That is where your suspension was built to take the weight. I have seen them put further forward to gain a higher lift, but that was for trucks built to play with. If you choose the proper bag (one that will be at your desired height while at an air pressure that creates a firmness you are happy with), you can put a good set of shocks on that have been set at the proper angle, and cruise along smoothly!

[PBFAB.COM]

Since the F9000 Rolling Sleeve bag is designed to be run at a 1:1 ration, it will perform best mounted directly off the axle tube. You do have your choice of making the bag bracket mount directly off the front of the axle, on top of the axle, or directly behind the axle.

Packaging and space will dictate where you end up mounting it. If you mount it off the front, you will get slightly more lift but will lose a negligeable amount of load capacity. If you mount it directly on top, you will maintain both load capacity and specified lift. If you mount it off the back, you will have slightly more load capacity, but will lose a negligeable amount of lift.

I always mount them directly off the back side of the axle and outboard of the frame on the C10 trucks whenever possible.... but depending on what size tires and wheels you run, you most likely won't have the room to put them outboard on your 54.

I have run them in front and behind on the 47-54 trucks with great results.

Nate