Is RAS Suspension Enhancement Better than Air Bags for 2018 Ford F-150

Published 08/30/2022

Question:

I currently have a 2018 F-150 Crew FX4, 5.5 bed, 3.5EB 35K miles and I have installed the firestone air bags. The airbags seem to work fine when hauling loads, but when my truck is unloaded and I keep 5lbs in the bags as recommended the rear end feels odd. When driving over train tracks the rear suspension does not have the same travel it did before without the airbags. When driving over the tracks the suspension compresses okay and when it tries to rebound up, its like the air bags wont let the suspension use the upward travel and makes the ride stiff. Has any else had this issue? I hope I explained that well enough. I drive over several train tracks in my area and its made the ride rough, something I was not expecting from airbags. I have been looking into the RAS system to give me the original ride back. I use my bed to haul firewood sometimes so I like having the extra help to keep the truck from squatting so much. I also tow a small camper 5500# with 700-800 tongue weight. Is the RAS system a better solution for me?

asked by: DAVID W

Expert Reply:

The air bag kit you have is not letting your suspension top out like it once did as it's basically pulling the truck back down when normally it would float up smoother which is giving it the harsher ride quality you mentioned. We really like the RoadActive Suspension kits like the part # RAS3611-Y that fits your 2018 Ford F-150 4x4 as it gives you the best of all worlds. It gives you the easily adjustable support you want and unlike other options it actually improves the ride quality instead of making it harsher. It also improves handling and stability as well and installs easily too.

expert reply by: Jameson C