Ridetech 19002003 User Manual
Page 2
AIR RIDE INSTALLATION ON REARENDS [using weld-on brackets]
1. Set rear of vehicle at ride height. You may have to remove the coilsprings or some of the leafs to let
the vehicle settle to the desired ride height. Remember that this is the height that you want the car to go
down the road at. You will have approx. 4” of drop available from this point.[Note: You must leave at least
2 leafs in the leafspring pack for lateral stability. If the vehicle is not low enough at that point, a 4 link or
ladder bar suspension should be considered.]
2. Record measurement of axle and fender lip so this relationship can be recreated at a comfortable
working height.
3. When the vehicle is safely supported at working height, determine where the axle mount will be
placed. The weld-on axle mount can be positioned a number of different ways, but should be level [with
the vehicle]. Examine the area closely for obstructions such as exhaust and brake lines. Remember that
the inflated diameter may be substantially larger than the uninflected diameter. [Refer to the dimension
chart.]
Remember:
THE AIRSPRING BELLOWS MUST NOT TOUCH ANYTHING AT ANYTIME!
At ride height, the airspring brackets should be aligned and parallel.
TIP: Temporarily joining the lower and upper brackets together with a length of all-thread and some nuts
and washers at the correct installed height will help keep them aligned and parallel during installation.
4. After the brackets are tack welded, install the airspring and run the suspension through its travel to
ensure NOTHING touches the airspring. Make adjustments if necessary. When final welding, take
precautions to minimize axle tube warpage.
5. A bump stop must be installed to maintain at least 2” of ground clearance when the airsprings are fully
deflated. This bump stop must also prevent the vehicle from resting on the airspring at full deflation.
Refer to the minimum height in the airspring dimension chart to determine the proper bumpstop position.
6. The lower bracket has a 7/16 hole for mounting the shock absorber. The upper shock mount will be
welded to the frame or to the upper airspring bracket. Make sure the shock “tops out” before the airspring
exceeds its maximum height. [This dimension is in the airspring dimension chart].This will let the shock
“capture” the suspension, and will ensure that the airspring is not damaged by over-extension. Also make
sure the vehicle will rest on a bump stop before the shock “bottoms out”.
350 S. St. Charles St. Jasper, In. 47546
Ph. 812.482.2932 Fax 812.634.6632
www.ridetech.com