Dodge Camper van - air shocks

Hi:

I have a recently acquired 1981 Dodge camper van. Wondering if anyone
has experience with the possible benefits of using air shocks on such a
rig. So far as I know all the suspension on it now is just factory
stock.

Dave

 

The only thing air shocks do is increase ride height when carrying
loads. Thus, they're more useful for applications like pickups, where
the load in the bed varies a lot. They may help out on a van
conversion to cope with heavier loads when going on vacation, but if
the stock ¾ ton suspension copes well enough, I wouldn't bother.
However, if it's a ½ ton, you may want them.

One problem with air shocks is that they have a very limited air
space in the air bladder, and thus will give a rough ride, even when
loaded. They also tend to tear up shock mountings if used at highest
pressures. I had air shocks on my F-250 for years, and only used them
when the bed was loaded near to its maximum rating; the stock rear
springs did a good enough job in most cases. However, when you're not
using them, you still have to keep a minimum pressure in them to keep
the air bladder from tearing up during regular ride motions.

What I'd do is load up your van with what you'd normally take on a
trip, and check the ride height. If you're noticing a "droop" in the
rear especially, they might help out. Another probably better
solution would be overload, or "helper" springs, like Helwigs et al.

 

what would you know about air shocks and ride height ?? you drive a
1978 Honda !