Suspension air bags

[Philip Wolsonovich]

Has anyone replaced the coil airbags? If so how did you get them in. The instructions say to twist the air bag but I can't get it to untwist once it is in coil.

[Sam Mason]

I replaced the right side air bag on my 85 Pace Arrow and swore it off forever! Although the Chevy P-30 chassis manual says not to do it: I had the entire front end overhauled in Orlando courtesy JOSAM truck maintenance and alignment. These guys service everything heavy-duty; from ten ton dump trucks, fire engines, Semi tractors, and RV's and have all the latest laser alignment equipment to accommodate the heavy vehicles.  The service manager said that they had fixed this issue on lots of Rv's  with P series chassis, and indeed had the correct "Gold" coded springs and the other needed components in stock for my RV. They replace ALL the worn components in the steering and suspension; along with the new spring (sans air bags). The chassis is now sitting at the correct ride height, holds alignment well, and drives like a new one. I had the alignment re-checked after a year of driving and it was only half a mm off (probably due to springs settling) If you choose to do this; please find a reputable heavy-duty shop that has done this procedure before. My best luck has been with JOSAM in Orlando Florida.It ain't cheap, but the payoff is in the reduced stress, and pure pleasure to drive a tight handling vehicle. Thanks, Sm