How to Find an Air Leak on a Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Spring System

Question:

Firestone Air Bag Suspension Kit - 2355 is leaking air slowly. Is this normal? I usually have it at 20psi, but notice in 2 weeks I one side at 6-8psi other side slightly higher like 10-12 psi. I put metal caps on both the air inlets but it didnt help any. Also whats the max psi I can use when towing heavy loads? Thank you for your help!

asked by: Cesar

Helpful Expert Reply:

The maximum air pressure that the Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs part # F2355 can be filled to is 100 psi. In addition to max pressure there will need to be a minimum of 5 psi in the airbags at all times in order to avoid deformity.

The airbags should stay inflated to the psi at which they are set to. If they lose air over time like you mentioned then you have an air leak somewhere in the system. The best way to find an air leak would involve mixing up a bottle of soap/water and spaying all of the fittings, airlines, and airbags with the solution while the system is fully inflated. If there is a leak anywhere in the system then air bubbles from the soap/water solution should appear within a few seconds.

If the bubbles are coming from the airlines then that line will need to be replaced. You can use part # F9416 to replace the airlines. If the bubbles are coming from where the hose fitting and air line meet, chances are the line is not properly cut. Although it may seem like an unnecessary purchase at first, a tubing Cutter part # AL10530 is a very important tool as it ensures the ail line is cut evenly every time which will in turn allow for a leak free connection. If the bubbles are coming from the inflation valves then you will want to replace them with part # F3032-1 and if the bubbles are coming from the airbag itself then part # F6781 will be needed to replace the airbag.

expert reply by: Conner L