Notices

Air Bags 2001 Chevy Express Van

Thread Tools
 
Old 04-18-2010, 07:22 AM
  #1  
Registered
Thread Starter
 
Join Date: Oct 2009
Location: San Antonio, Texas
Posts: 146
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Default Air Bags 2001 Chevy Express Van

I need some advice on air bags. I've looked at the archives here and numerous other sites. My van is 5.7 and tows my 2005 Nordic Rage pretty well but once I load up the family it does sag a bit.

I'm thinking Firestone air bags may be the way to go to keep this economical. It's a 2001 Van so I'm not interested in spending crazy money but I want it to be a safe tow platform

So, any recommendations besides Firestone? I know that the airlines should be spearate so there's no air transfer while cornering. I'm ok with buying the compressor if it's not overkill. 90% of the time the van is used to transport the family, there are seven of us.

If the compressor is recommended I've noticed there's a difference in the compressors, Dual v Single? I could use some education here.

Thanks for your recommendations.
XX14 is offline  
Old 04-18-2010, 12:23 PM
  #2  
coolrunning racing
VIP Member
 
mrv8outboard's Avatar
 
Join Date: Feb 2001
Location: cape cod
Posts: 558
Likes: 0
Received 3 Likes on 2 Posts
Default

We use "Timbrins" for snow plowing.
mrv8outboard is offline  
Old 04-18-2010, 08:56 PM
  #3  
Registered
 
Join Date: Jun 2004
Location: Pacific, MO
Posts: 140
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Default

XX14.... I would recommend this product. I have been using it for a couple of years now as well as a friend with the same truck. We are both very pleased with it and what it does. And the good thing... we never need to worry about filling them up or leaks.

Just my thoughts and I hope it helps.

http://www.activesuspension.com/
NoWake200 is offline  
Old 04-19-2010, 07:31 AM
  #4  
Registered
 
Join Date: Jul 2002
Location: Troy, Mich
Posts: 2,728
Likes: 0
Received 6 Likes on 5 Posts
Default

xx14- go with the Firestone Air bags as they are adjustable with air pressue. The van will tow so much better. i use them with my Avalanche 2500 (leaf springs) which you have also.


Wannabe
wannabe is offline  
Old 04-19-2010, 05:34 PM
  #5  
Registered
Thread Starter
 
Join Date: Oct 2009
Location: San Antonio, Texas
Posts: 146
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Default Air Lift v Firestone?

Any concerns in using Air Lift v Firestone?
XX14 is offline  
Old 04-19-2010, 10:51 PM
  #6  
Forum Regulator
VIP Member
iTrader: (1)
 
Sydwayz's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2001
Location: Worldwide
Posts: 23,828
Received 1,195 Likes on 519 Posts
Default

Made in same plant with different labels. The Firestone setup uses a little bit better hardware in my experience. I've had both though with no issues.

Go with the heaviest duty bags for your setup. Cost isn't much difference and you can't have too much capacity.

BUT, I am wondering if you are over your towing capacity & or GCWR with:

Boat
Trailer
Fuel
Fenders, lines, stereo equipment, anchors, tools & spare parts
Coolers
Luggage
Family/passengers/loved ones
etc.
etc.

Have you been across a scale with your setup?
Sydwayz is offline  
Old 04-20-2010, 03:27 PM
  #7  
Registered
Thread Starter
 
Join Date: Oct 2009
Location: San Antonio, Texas
Posts: 146
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Default It's close

It's rated to tow 6600 and the boat is 3700 not counting the trailer. I've upgraded the hitch and the draw bar. I'm hoping by installing the bags it will help it to be a little more stable and safe.
XX14 is offline  
Old 04-20-2010, 03:34 PM
  #8  
Registered
 
Join Date: Jul 2002
Location: Troy, Mich
Posts: 2,728
Likes: 0
Received 6 Likes on 5 Posts
Default

The trailker has brakes right?

GCVW is your real key #, Gross combined vehicle weight of EVERYTHING including the boat and trailer.

Wannabe
wannabe is offline  
Old 04-20-2010, 08:36 PM
  #9  
Registered
Thread Starter
 
Join Date: Oct 2009
Location: San Antonio, Texas
Posts: 146
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Default Trailer brakes

Yes, it has disc brakes on the trailer. Stopping isn't an issue I just want it to ride level.
XX14 is offline  
Old 04-27-2010, 04:03 PM
  #10  
Gold Member
Gold Member
 
Big Time's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2007
Location: Westport, CT
Posts: 1,470
Likes: 0
Received 1 Like on 1 Post
Default

I installed new shocks on my truck (bilstein) and it helped a lot. Hoping to add the Air Lift this summer before I start towing again.
Big Time is offline  

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Trackbacks are On
Pingbacks are On
Refbacks are On



Contact Us - Archive - Advertising - Cookie Policy - Privacy Statement - Terms of Service

Copyright © 2024 MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands. All rights reserved. Use of this site indicates your consent to the Terms of Use.