Does Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Spring Have to Install in Front Alignment Hole

Updated 03/11/2026 | Published 03/07/2026

Question:

Hello, Installing the F35FV kit on my 2019 F350 SD and the instructions say to install the alignment pin and combo stud into the frontinch alignment holes. When I do that, the air spring does not line up with the lower bracket. However, if I install the studs into the rear alignment holes it lines up perfectly with the lower bracket. Is this an acceptable installation or do they have to go in the fwd holes and be out of alignment? Thank you

asked by: Jim L

Expert Reply:

Hey James! The Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs # F35FV call for the use of the front holes when you install them. However, you can use the other set of holes if that gives you better alignment. Check out the installation video below starting at the 8 minute mark. Kevin marked the bags ahead of time to make sure they're aligned properly, I would follow the same steps.

Are you adding these for towing or something else?

expert reply by: Robin H

Firestone Installation
(click to enlarge)

Robert

3/10/2026

I used the rear holes as everything lined up that way on my 2024 F350. I've had them installed multiple months and towed a 16,500 lb 5th wheel and no issues. Plus I tow a 6,000 lb work trailer on a regular basis. The air bags work great and keep my truck level and riding great.

Timber W.

3/11/2026

@Robert I had the same issue. Use whichever holes you want, but MAKE SURE you look fwd (front to back of vehicle) and side ways (side to side of vehicle) and make sure that the air bags are not sitting sideways or you will tear them apart prematurely (that is the risk). I ended up doing it both holes and went back to front hole only but I had a 2025 F250 with the 11k add on package (so it was the 3500 SD suspension). FWIW. The main objective is to assure when the air bags are compressing and decompressing they are almost perfectly going up and down with respect to the rubber supports on the bag - meaning you do not want the air bags vertical to ground just vertical with respect to compressing and decompressing so the rubber stays intact over the years of use.

Scott J.

3/10/2026

The ride is a little bit rougher than stock, but it does do the job. Ultimately, I wish it was a smoother ride.

Timber W.

3/11/2026

@ScottJ If the ride is rough, let air out of the bags when not needed. I have to do this all the time down to 10 lbs. At 50 lbs (when I tow a monster 5th wheel that maxes my trucks load capacity)I only put 50 lbs and it will beat me to death with nothing on the back of the truck. You should have a more comfortable ride than stock w/the bags properly adjusted. If you find it is to much back and forth you can use the automatic air inflaters they make for them.