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Air Bags 2001 Chevy Express Van

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Old 04-18-2010 | 07:22 AM
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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.
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Old 04-18-2010 | 12:23 PM
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We use "Timbrins" for snow plowing.
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Old 04-18-2010 | 08:56 PM
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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/
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Old 04-19-2010 | 07:31 AM
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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.


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Old 04-19-2010 | 05:34 PM
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Default Air Lift v Firestone?

Any concerns in using Air Lift v Firestone?
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Old 04-19-2010 | 10:51 PM
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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?
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Old 04-20-2010 | 03:27 PM
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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.
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Old 04-20-2010 | 03:34 PM
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The trailker has brakes right?

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

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Old 04-20-2010 | 08:36 PM
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Default Trailer brakes

Yes, it has disc brakes on the trailer. Stopping isn't an issue I just want it to ride level.
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Old 04-27-2010 | 04:03 PM
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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.
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