Should I Repair or Replace the Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Spring on my 2001 Chevy 3500

Updated 08/21/2017 | Published 08/20/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Firestone Ride-Rite Red Label Extreme Duty Air Helper Springs - Rear Axle

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Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs - Double Convoluted - Rear Axle

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Firestone Elbow Connector for 1/4" Tubing, 1/4 NPT - Male

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Replacement Air Spring for Firestone Ride-Rite Kit - Double Convoluted - Model 267C1.5

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Firestone 1/4" Air Line Tubing - 30' Long, Red

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Question:

I have a 2001 Chevrolet Silverado 3500. Back in 2001 I installed 2250 Firestone Ride Rite air bags, which are still in place and still working, although the starboard side leaks air slowly. Ive been thinking of replacing the Ride Rites I installed in 2001 with the Firestone Ride-Rite Red Label Extreme Duty Air Helper Springs - Rear Axle-Item # F2700. Question: what is the best way to proceed with replacing the old system? Is the Ride Rite red label system of the same dimensions and does it use the same parts as the old system or is everything of different dimensions, etc. Again, how would you proceed. Thank you

asked by: John M

Expert Reply:

I called my contact at Firestone(Ride-Rite) and they informed me that the Firestone Ride-Rite Red Label Extreme Duty Air Helper Springs part # F2700 contains different air bags and mounting brackets that are rated for higher weight capacities in comparison to the Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs part # F2250. Therefore in order to use the Red Label Heavy Duty airbags on your 2001 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 you would need to replace the entire kit. The Red Label Kit can support up to 7,500 lbs whereas the traditional bags are only rated up to 4,800 lbs.

If you wish to keep your current kit we do sell replacement airbags for this. I recommend using the Replacement Air Spring for Firestone Ride-Rite Kit part # F6781 for a direct replacement. Depending on where the leak is located you may also want to replace the elbow fitting like part # F3031-1 and the airlines using part # F9416.

I have included a review video of the Red Label Heavy Duty Kit for you.