any airbags that don't require drilling the frame?

[seto]

I'm looking to install airbags in the rear to level my truck when it's filled with tools, currently the bed gets dropped 1/2" fully loaded with my work gear. I've been looking at airbags and would like to install some to level the truck but am not too keen on drilling holes into the frame to mount them. Are there any companies that don't require drilling? Thanks in advance!

Rob

[DJ]

Firestone Ride-Rites do require drilling, but not much. I have them on mine and find they work quite well.

[SnowTruck]

An alternative that I am considering is a simple bolt on spring that goes over that stock spring pack. They are called SuperSpring. They are progressive so they get stiffer with more load. I am leaning this way because of cost and install is simplified.


http://www.supersprings.com/

[CMB1998]

Originally Posted by DJ

Firestone Ride-Rites do require drilling, but not much. I have them on mine and find they work quite well.

I am looking at the firestone Ride Rites. How do they ride? How was the install? Did you get the in cab adjustable switch?

Chris

[DJ]

Originally Posted by CMB1998

I am looking at the firestone Ride Rites. How do they ride? How was the install? Did you get the in cab adjustable switch?

Chris

Installation was easy and took about an hour and a half. I didn't get the in-cab switch. I mounted a separate fill valve for each side. They mount in holes I drilled through the bumper, one at each side of the license plate.

The air hoses are hard plastic. Route them so they don't kink, which is easy. Then put a very thin coating of silicone caulk on them before pressing them into their fittings.

The ride is fine. When the truck is empty, I put in about 8 psi of air, which keeps them fully inflated. With a heavy load, I've put in as much as 22 psi and the ride is great.

Keep in mind that they are made to provide up to 5,000 pounds or so of extra capacity. The truck can't take anywhere near that much. If the truck is never used beyond its original capacity, then the air springs are taking the load of only part of the cargo. So, even though they are rated at 150 psi or so, you won't need very much pressure.

[seto]

Originally Posted by SnowTruck

An alternative that I am considering is a simple bolt on spring that goes over that stock spring pack. They are called SuperSpring. They are progressive so they get stiffer with more load. I am leaning this way because of cost and install is simplified.

http://www.supersprings.com/

SnowTruck, this is really interesting. Have you seen any reviews to check it's claim. I'd much rather do this than the airbags if possible. I'm only dropping about 1/2 - 1" when fully loaded and will be lifting my front to level but don't want the rear to drop when I load the bed. Please let me know if you have additional info. Thanks.

Rob