F150 Firestone Riderite Airbags

[Scootdawg]

A while back someone posted having an F150 with Firestone Riderite airbags and Rancho RS9000XL adjustable shocks on their TV pulling a 5th wheel. I was wondering the model of them. A person that I am having install them for me had me contact a truck shop and they ordered the 2525 model. I have a Reese 16K hitch and it doesn't look like they will fit with the hitch plate that is on the frame. I looked at the review for the airbags model and some people say they work great pulling their 5ver with them, but different hitches have different configurations. I guess I am a little stressed over a part that might not work.

[Flagstaffer06]

If you don't have any luck on here, try looking on etrailer.com. I had no intention of pulling a 5er with my truck but, I know when looking at the different models it listed if it would or wouldn't work with a 5th wheel hitch installed. With regards to my truck, I know the Firestone's would work but, the Airlift brand wouldn't.

Even if you aren't sure or don't get information you can even send those guys a message on there. They are quick to respond and will help you out, even if you don't buy from them.

[Happy Vibe]

I found this on E trailer:
I do have a rear suspension enhancement option for your 2013 Ford F-150, however, the Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs, # F2525, are not compatible with most fifth wheel frame brackets that mount to the outboard side of the vehicles frame rail. Most fifth wheel brackets block the frame and it is not recommended to install the Ride-Rite kits on top of fifth wheel brackets.

According to my Firestone representative, the only difference between the # F2542 and the # F2525 is that the mounting brackets on the F2542 are a bit different to allow a B and W fifth wheel hitch or a fifth wheel hitch with the # RP30035 universal brackets to be installed. The Firestone # F2525 would not be compatible with frame brackets for a fifth wheel hitch.

[Scootdawg]

Thank you all for the input, that is my luck. I talked to the parts salesman and he mentioned the RP30035 universal bracket which I do not have. Looks like I will turn these in and try the shock upgrade.

[dustman_stx]

I have Ride-rites and the RS9000XL's but I pull a TT. The Rancho shocks will help with porpoising, but keep in mind that shocks offer no additional lift. You might look into adding some helper springs such as these: Hellwig EZ Level Helper Springs - Best Price on Hellwig Overload Springs - EZ 550, EZ 990, EZ 1000

[Ddubya]

I have Firestone bags on my 2011 F250 with Reese 16K. I had no problem installing them.


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[rsdata]

airbags are the way to go...
I have Airlift brand Loadlifter bags installed and love the wya they make my TV handle while pulling my trailer. They come in many different flavors for different applications. I looked up what I needed on airlftcompany.com then ordered on amazon for the best price.

[Scootdawg]

Originally Posted by Ddubya

I have Firestone bags on my 2011 F250 with Reese 16K. I had no problem installing them.


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I have a plate mounted to the frame that hold the hitch down. No room for the airbags to mount on the springs to the frame.

[Shinny]

Originally Posted by Scootdawg

I have a plate mounted to the frame that hold the hitch down. No room for the airbags to mount on the springs to the frame.

etrailer told me the same thing for my Ford. They were wrong!!! Look at your frame where the hitch plate is mounted. If the frame has an inward bend, then you can use the air bags. The hitch plate will have to be removed so you can mount the bag's bracket, then re-install the hitch plate. The bend in the frame allows the air bag mount bolt head to sit under the hitch plate. I will take pics today and post them since a lot of people have the same question and are being told they won't fit.

[Scootdawg]

Originally Posted by Shinny

etrailer told me the same thing for my Ford. They were wrong!!! Look at your frame where the hitch plate is mounted. If the frame has an inward bend, then you can use the air bags. The hitch plate will have to be removed so you can mount the bag's bracket, then re-install the hitch plate. The bend in the frame allows the air bag mount bolt head to sit under the hitch plate. I will take pics today and post them since a lot of people have the same question and are being told they won't fit.

Thank you very much, if its just removing the plate then install the bags and reinstall the plate, it saves a lot of hassle.