Question: use of air springs for towing

[IndyFastlane]

We are picking up a new small-ish 17’ camper tomorrow. In preparation for getting it, I’ve been outfitting the 4runner with the appropriate gear. The brake controller and a set of Firestone CoilRite bags are in place and ready to go.

Question on the use of the bags......am I right in assuming that they should be inflated AFTER the load is attached to the tongue?

We just got the 4runner this past fall and this is our first use as a tow vehicle. Previously we had a 17 Tacoma which we outfitted with SumoSprings for use when towing our popup camper, so we didn’t have to deal with this inflating of bags procedure......so I’m a bit unfamiliar with their use.

We also plan on using a weight distributing hitch, so the bags are there just to help a little bit more and lessen the stress on the hitch. The camper weighs just under 3000# dry and the tongue is roughly 400#. My concern is that if I inflate the bags and then set the weight on the back, the pressure will go way up and max pressure is supposed to be set at 35psi for these bags.

Thanks all.

 

[TechWrench]

We are picking up a new small-ish 17’ camper tomorrow. In preparation for getting it, I’ve been outfitting the 4runner with the appropriate gear. The brake controller and a set of Firestone CoilRite bags are in place and ready to go.

Question on the use of the bags......am I right in assuming that they should be inflated AFTER the load is attached to the tongue?

We just got the 4runner this past fall and this is our first use as a tow vehicle. Previously we had a 17 Tacoma which we outfitted with SumoSprings for use when towing our popup camper, so we didn’t have to deal with this inflating of bags procedure......so I’m a bit unfamiliar with their use.

We also plan on using a weight distributing hitch, so the bags are there just to help a little bit more and lessen the stress on the hitch. The camper weighs just under 3000# dry and the tongue is roughly 400#. My concern is that if I inflate the bags and then set the weight on the back, the pressure will go way up and max pressure is supposed to be set at 35psi for these bags.

Thanks all.

You have several issues to deal with. 1st, the weight distribution system needs to be set up properly, so be sure to follow the manufacturers setup instructions properly. When I set mine up, I made the weight distribution system adjustments with out any assist from the air bags springs. 2nd, as for the air bags, you should only inflate them to the minimum psi to bring vehicle ride height to it's normal level, when unloaded. Then when camper is attached, make any adjustments to air bags to bring vehicle back to proper ride height. When disconnecting trailer, make sure to reduce air bag pressure, so as to not have rear jacked up too much.

 

[IndyFastlane]

You have several issues to deal with. 1st, the weight distribution system needs to be set up properly, so be sure to follow the manufacturers setup instructions properly. When I set mine up, I made the weight distribution system adjustments with out any assist from the air bags springs. 2nd, as for the air bags, you should only inflate them to the minimum psi to bring vehicle ride height to it's normal level, when unloaded. Then when camper is attached, make any adjustments to air bags to bring vehicle back to proper ride height. When disconnecting trailer, make sure to reduce air bag pressure, so as to not have rear jacked up too much.

Thanks. Appreciate the advice.

The rv dealer is going to set the WD hitch up initially. They offered to do so as part of the deal, so I’ll let them. I’ll plan to take my little compressor and top the bags off and finish leveling the rear before we set off for home.

Thanks again.

 

[J.A.]

I dont believe that the air pressure changes when a load is put in. I do as per the instructions and fill the bags first before putting load on the vehicle. Then let pressure out as needed.

 

[steraser]

Sorry to revive this but I am curious as to why you chose the Bags rather than Sumosprings. How are the bags working out for you?

We are picking up a new small-ish 17’ camper tomorrow. In preparation for getting it, I’ve been outfitting the 4runner with the appropriate gear. The brake controller and a set of Firestone CoilRite bags are in place and ready to go.

Question on the use of the bags......am I right in assuming that they should be inflated AFTER the load is attached to the tongue?

We just got the 4runner this past fall and this is our first use as a tow vehicle. Previously we had a 17 Tacoma which we outfitted with SumoSprings for use when towing our popup camper, so we didn’t have to deal with this inflating of bags procedure......so I’m a bit unfamiliar with their use.

We also plan on using a weight distributing hitch, so the bags are there just to help a little bit more and lessen the stress on the hitch. The camper weighs just under 3000# dry and the tongue is roughly 400#. My concern is that if I inflate the bags and then set the weight on the back, the pressure will go way up and max pressure is supposed to be set at 35psi for these bags.

Thanks all.