We started with an Air-Lift Air Helper Spring package, designed specifically for trucks with rear suspensions lowered 4”. 

• The installation tool and brackets are put in place. The installation tool had to be shortened in the thread section, in order to fit under the frame.
• The upper mounting bracket rests against the truck bed channel supports. This is to maximize the air spring travel area.
• We chose to weld the brackets in place, instead of using bolts, as we preferred not to drill holes in the hydroformed chassis rail unless necessary.

The compressor kit came with low air pressure sensors that automatically inflate the bags to maintain a minimum pressure of at least 5 PSI.  In order to maintain the proper empty ride height and suspension feel, we eliminated these sensors from the installation. This enables us to to run 0-1 PSI empty.

An Air-Lift Onboard Compressor system was installed, so that the springs could be inflated without requiring an external compressor. We went for the “custom” look, installing the compressor and gauges in the truck’s bed under the tonneau rails.

The result is a clean setup without gauges cluttering the interior.  Controls are handy when hooking up a trailer.

We tested the system by towing the 31ft, 7,500lb travel trailer to Massachusetts and back. The results is a very stable riding truck with excellent handling manners. Bottoming out was rare and only on some really nasty low-grade interstate sections. Bacause of the lowered, firm stance created by the Hotchkis TVS suspension, and the air springs, this truck actually tows better than the ‘99 Ram in all but the really bumpy stuff.

Empty, the truck rides as if the bags are not there. Mission accomplished.