Air Bags on Lifted Ex?

lx_2nv · Jul 3, 2013

So - I finally towed my 24' (about 10K) trailer for the first time with my lifted Ex. What a white knuckle ride. I know for one I need to get a longer shank so I can use my weight dis. hitch, and the trailer not being level had something to do with it. The other issue is that the rear squatted about 3" with the weight. So - I was thinking of throwing airbag on there and that will help a lot. My question is - with the truck already lifted (bout 4") will I need a special airbag? Anyone have a recommendation?

Thanks!

JDub · Jul 3, 2013

You'd still purchase the standard airbag kit for the Ex, but depending on the lift, the mfg should offer a spacer puck in the height you'd need to make up the gap between the axle and frame rail.

Zmann · Jul 3, 2013

if you go with inboard bags u will need a spacer ( bags sit inside near the leaf spring and mount to the axle )

if you go with outboard bags and u have a lift block with OEM springs u will need nothing ( bags mount to frame and leaf spring )

if it's a spring lift and u go with outboard bags u will need a puck or a modification of some sort ( see my 8 inch lift bags with custom mount and a Daystar cradle ) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r4QBG3izhyA

outboard bags are better anyway they control sway a little better and the system is stronger IMHO

NEVRNF · Jul 3, 2013

If you are still running the stock springs you might want to do the F350 spring upgrade. It will improve the ride and the load capacity. I second the air bags. I have custom mounts on my Ex with the rolling sleve type of bag. It rides much better than the standard style bag and it mounted outside of the frame rail on top of the spring.

Rodslinger · Jul 4, 2013

Add the F350 rear sway bar too. It helps.

lx_2nv · Jul 4, 2013

Thanks guys! How big of a PITA is it to intall these? They don't seem bad, as I have done the entire suspension on my Mustang.

Zmann · Jul 4, 2013

couple of hours depending on if u get a compressor or not

look for no drill kits

fordman2121 · Jul 6, 2013

Ive got an added spring plus the lift blocks on ours. It does squat down but I put a set of ladder bars on and those made a HUGE difference towing. Pulled a lot straighter, didn't wonder like before and I swear they made the ex ride better with and without the trailer. I do want to take out the extra spring and put bags on but I only with it a handful of times a year.

lx_2nv · Jul 8, 2013

Thanks everyone - looking forward to trying the bags out. I have a ton of tools, so shouldn't be a problem. Also - looks like they just put blocks on it to lift?

lx_2nv · Jul 8, 2013

Also - who makes a good outboard bag?

Zmann · Jul 8, 2013

Firestone and Airlift

I have had both and I think they are equals
so look for a No Drill kit in either brand
Amazon has some good deals

also check your bottom blocks they look a little cockeyed

OBSWIZ · Jul 8, 2013

Do modded B codes, will ride better and tow much better then as stated use air bags if needed with the daystar cup.

Zmann · Jul 8, 2013

those Ex springs are goofy looking LOL

lx_2nv · Jul 8, 2013

Zmann said:
Firestone and Airlift

I have had both and I think they are equals
so look for a No Drill kit in either brand
Amazon has some good deals

also check your bottom blocks they look a little cockeyed

I literally shook my head when I saw them. LOL!!