some newb questions

[RasterMaster]

Originally Posted by jsbihn

RasterMaster,
Did it change the ride any when you changed over? And if you have the part numbers that would be awesome.

In addition to the stock coil springs (GM-25956182 & GM-25956183) and four insulators (GM-15713853) purchased from GM parts direct, the only other part was an airline coupling (Gates part # G31400-0404) which was used to splice the two lines together - can be obtained at O'Reilly or other Auto parts store.

http://www.woodys-auto-supply.com/mobile/mobile-auto-part-details.asp?prod=GAT-G31400-0404

It fools the system into thinking there are still air springs installed and leaves the system in place in case I wanted to go with air springs in the future (I kept the air spring supports and bolts - just in case). Once the air springs were pulled out, I learned that where the air springs fold over on themselves, a metal ring in the middle of the bag was causing the premature wearing and leaks to develop. Also, one line had a kink or a wear spot that was causing leakage above the air spring and intermittent sagging even when the air springs were replaced.

I wanted to use the stock system for air-assisted coil springs (air bags inside the coils) but was told by the manufacturer that the pressures from the air-ride system would burst the assist bags. There is a kit that utilizes a lighter compressor but requires installation of a gauge and switch to monitor and control the system. I may investigate the air-assist again in the future, but for now being rid of the air springs was top priority.

Although I left all remaining air suspension components in place, some instructions I found online:

http://www.suncoreindustries.com/instructions/99G-30-R.pdf

http://www.arnottindustries.com/file.asp?Manual=TRUE&ProductID=480&Size=SMALL

I did not do any towing or offroading after the install, but there wasn't any substantial difference in the ride to make me ever want to go back to air springs.