Installing Firestone Rite Ride System

Hey everyone this is my first post, I got a 09 dblcab, warranty just ran out so starting to do mods. I the firestone rite ride system with level command 2 compressor. I am by no means a mechanic but am comfortable with installing the bags and running all the lines. The compressor is my issue, i plan on mounting the guage and control in the pocket infront of my cupholders so its not sticking out or in the way. I am not sure where to mount the compressor and also have never done any wiring in a vehicle. anyone have any suggestions on a good spot to mount the compressor or some pics when installing your own?

 

I didn't install a compressor at all when when I put my airbags on. Thought about it but changed my mind.

The airbags take so little air that I found a bicycle pump would work just as well. It just takes a minute or so to add enough air and it's definitely low tech and maintenance free.

As far as a gauge goes, if you take a little extra care with your air fittings where they attach to the bags I doubt if they'll leak off enough to even notice. Again, I use a low pressure bike gauge to check mine. They're more accurate than the regular tire gauge and you can really fine tune the pressure. I usually check mine every month or so and very seldom do I have to add any air.


If you want to install a compressor and a gauge by all means go for it...but I don't think they're really necessary.

You'll love the bags...they're great.

 

I originally intended go just use a hand pump but when i got my air bags my wife got me the compressor as a gift, so i have the whole system now. i figured the fender in the engine compartment is a good place, but was wondering if anyone else had a better location for the compressor.

 

So how does it ride? I cant decide between Airlift Ride controle and firestone ride rite. Firestone can handle 5000lbs... Cant really see a tacoma with 5000lbs...

 

The RideRite air bags ride great, you won't know they are even there if you keep them at 5 psi when not loaded. Put something heavy in your bed and air them up enough to level your truck out and you will be very glad you have them.

 

My compressor is mounted on the frame under the rear passenger seat area.

I have the gauges and switch right where you are putting yours.

I did however get rid of the bags due to the off-roading I do...

 

I have seen compressors mounted inside one of the cubbyholes in the bed, probably best if you have a camper shell. You would have to run a thick enough wire to it to handle the amperage. Probably the most common area as mentioned is on top of one of the two wheel wells in the engine compartment.Then you are only running air lines and not power lines.

 

Went with firestone. Was almost the same price but the brackets look stronger and the rubber is probably stronger du to the 5000lbs rating.

 

Thanks for the input eveyone. I decided on the passenger side wheel well (driver's side didnt have the room). I thought about the cubby in back but all the extra wir running killed that thought fairly quick. Going to install the compressor and bags this weekend, i'll take a bunch of pics and post them for anyone thinking about installing one in the future.

 

oh, that makes sense, these bags are really tough, I have pumped them up to 125 with a lot of weight to were they were as hard as teak wood plus I've deflated them to do wheeling.

Definitely would like to see pics, glad we could be of help OP