Air Bag Kit Recommendation for a 2021 Ford Ranger with In-Bed Deck System and Ladder Rack
Updated 08/15/2024 | Published 08/13/2024
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Question:
Hi! I have a 2021 Ford Ranger FX4 4x4 that I installed a Decked drawer system in, along with a bed rack, with plans to put a rooftop tent on in the future. With all that weight back there, and the softer suspension of the FX4 package, the ride quality has suffered immensely, as I expected. Ive always planned to install some Air lift load lifters, especially after doing a level kit, but I now see they have a kit with internal jounce bumpers. My question is, should I go for the kit with the jounce bumpers? I have read many reviews across the web that the bumpers make the ride incredibly too stiff, but those only being a fraction of the reviews that mention nothing about that issue. Are these folks just not running a high enough pressure unloaded? Or should I be concerned about constantly banging off the bumpers with the daily amount of weight in my bed? I 100 want the benefits that the bumpers provide, but not if its going to turn my wallery, jostly, soft and saggy ride a complete 180 to rock hard and back breaking. Thank you in advance for your time and expertise!
asked by: Joe M
(click to enlarge)
(click to enlarge)
Expert Reply:
Hey Joe, sweet ride!
For the best and most reliable ride quality I actually recommend picking up the Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs # F28ZR. The Air Lift Kit # AL88234 with the internal jounce bumpers can produce a rougher ride, and the Ride-Rite air bags have a better construction which is why I recommend the Firestone over the Air Lift.
I also recommend checking out the Air Lift WirelessONE Tank Kit # AL67DQ which will keep the air bags within 3 psi of the setting you choose, plus it comes with an air tank and a hose so you can have air readily available wherever you end up camping out.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate Air Helper Springs with Internal Jounce Bumpers - Rear Axle
- Vehicle Suspension
- Towing/Load Leveling
- Air Springs
- Suspension Only
- Heavy Duty
- Rear Axle Suspension Enhancement
- Air Lift
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on Vehicle Suspension
Joe
8/15/2024
Thank you! I appreciate the feedback Jon. I will check out those firestones for sure, they do look much more "beefy". Are the lifetime warranties and returns similar between the two? Or have you seen one stand out from the other in your experience?