Recommended Air Bag System for a 1996 Ford F-250 w/ a B&W Hitch

Updated 09/09/2023 | Published 09/08/2023

Products Featured in This Question

Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 Air Helper Springs - Rear Axle

(1953)

$483.99

Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate Air Helper Springs with Internal Jounce Bumpers - Rear Axle

(1523)

$621.99

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

(3242)

$397.94

Firestone Air Command Standard Duty Air Compressor - Smartphone App Only - Single Path

(389)

$569.75

Question:

Can I use Firestone kit # W217602071 with my BandW Gooseneck on my 1996 Ford F250 short bed 4x4

asked by: Ron A

Expert Reply:

No you can't, but I have an air bag system that will. For your 1996 Ford F-250 with an in bed hitch, I recommend the Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 Air Helper Springs item # AL57298. This system is compatible with your B&W hitch and has a 5,000 lbs load leveling capacity. This kit does require drilling but it and item # AL88298 are the only options available for your truck that are compatible with in bed hitches and they both involve drilling.

The Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs item # F2071 you referenced mounts in the same location as the B&W hitch brackets. All of the Firestone Air Bag kits available for a 1996 F-250 have the same compatibility issues for the exact same reason.

I also recommend adding the Firestone Air Command item # F2610 to your truck. This onboard compressor will allow you to adjust the PSI in your air bags from your phone.