How To Mount Air Bags On A 2001 Ford F-250 With Reese Custom Bed Rail Kit  

Question:

Expert Reply:

In order to install an airbag kit on your 2001 Ford F-250 with the Reese Custom Base Rail Kit part # RP50082-58, you will want a system that attaches underneath or inside the frame rail such as the Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs part # F2550 or the Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 Air Helper Springs part # AL57390. Both systems will help to increase stability, improve ride quality, and reduce body roll.

The differences between the two systems are relatively small. The Firestone Air Bags are 4-ply rubber whereas the Air Lift bags are only 2-ply. I recommend the Firestone system as the additional ply's in the airbags will provide an extra layer of durability. In addition to the difference in air bags, the Air Lift system is slightly less expensive than the Firestone system though, both are an excellent option.

To answer your question, yes. Both of these air bag kits mount on the inside of the frame rail. In most cases, the 5th wheel rail kit will interfere with the air bag brackets that mount on the outer portion of the frame rail. Fortunately, both Air Lift and Firestone have taken this into consideration while designing their brackets.

I have attached an installation video of both air bag kits on similar year vehicles in addition to a review of the Firestone Ride-Rite Kit.

expert reply by: Conner L

0