Forum Discussion

Huntindog's avatar
Huntindog
Explorer
May 28, 2020

Air shocks

Has anyone tried air shocks on a trailer?

I was thinking of ways to increase ground clearance when needed but leave the stock height when on the highway

I remembered a car I put them on when I was a teenager to alow for bigger tires

I am aware of the downsides
But what I am thinking of only airing them up with an onboard pump when ground clearance is needed
Most of the time they would not be aired up and would function as normal shocks
I would need to fabricate some mounts, which is within my skill Level
Even an extra 2-3” can help a great deal
  • MitchF150's avatar
    MitchF150
    Explorer III
    May 28, 2020
    Oh, what Hot Rodder in the 70's-80's didn't have Monroe or Gabriel air shocks or want them! I wished I had them for my 71 LTD when I was 16 back in '79, with some Crager SS wheels and M-50-15 tires!
    But just never happened... :)

    Just thinking off the top of my now 56 year old brain, You would need 4 of them I'd think first off. They really didn't do your average "shock" thing either as I recall... They were just easy bolt on "air bags" back then and now I think?

    You'd have to find a set that would have the travel you need when aired down and aired up.. I've seen shocks on trailer before, and they all seemed to be rather 'stubby' in size?

    Anyway, great thought.. Might have more luck with an actual air bag type of mod since those are built for all sorts of vehicles these days from the small imports to semi trucks.

    Good luck, and if you ever do, post some pics! :)

    Mitch

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