Factory air level for 3500 DRW

[dward]

On the 3500, what does the air level system actually consist of?
is it still leaf springs with factory air bags that are computer controlled to maintain a level ride?
i understand that a Helwig sway bar won’t work with this system.
Could you remove the components and deactivate the system to make it a non air level truck if you wanted to?
i may want to try it for carrying a heavy truck camper but if it didn’t work as well as aftermarket systems it would be nice to have the ability to remove it.

 

[dward]

I just did a little research.
It’s a lot more involved than I thought. I was under the impression that it had the stock leaf spring pack with airbags.
There is 1 large leaf spring with a control arm on each side facing forward and 2 “large” air bags, on board air compressor and all the plumbing.
Looks like a good setup for trailer towing but I don’t think it would be ideal for a large truck camper.
Standard leaf spring is Bullet proof and you are able to add after market parts such as Stable Loads, Airbags etc and most importantly, the sway bar.
I answered my own question but thought I would post to maybe help someone else who may be interested.
Too bad as I found a nice 2018 Tradesman 4x4 Aisin for $18,300 off sticker. Anyone interested I’ll let you know where it is.

 

[Task125]

I have it and love it . bags and air tank .

 

[mpaulson]

Looking at the pictures that Task just posted, the Helwig Bigwig that I have on my 2014 3500 DRW mounts to the two perches that are on the underside of the axle tubes on either side of the diff that appear to be there and are free and clear of anything in the way. the bar comes out to the rear on my truck and I don't see why it wouldn't fit this truck. The rod ends that attach to the frame might need mods, but I wouldn't say it's not doable. I would be curious if someone could order one and try holding it up to the air ride 3500 and see if the mounts would line up. I'm willing to bet that it would bolt up to the axle no problem.
I've had the same concerns as a new truck is in my near future, just waiting to true confirmation of the new body style on the 2500/3500, but I too haul a large, top heavy load and must have the Helwig Bigwig on the truck for stability and most likely would stick to the standard leaf springs as well for this reason.
I the pictures there is nothing in the way behind the Dif, so it should work. Helwig probably just hasn't tested the fitment and therefore won't list it or say that it will work.

 

[dward]

Might be worth a call to Helwig to see if they know anything or are going to make on.
Do the leaf springs carry any weight or is it all on the airbags?
It looks as if the bags are mounted inboard of the springs high is even worse for a high center load like a TC.

 

[PederKruger]

The system works perfectly while carrying my fully loaded Lance 1062. Very stable while crossing Wyoming with classic crosswinds. Had aftermarket airbags on previously owned F350 DRW and ultimately quit using them. Found the overload springs were much more stable on that truck.

 

[dward]

Thanks Peter, good to get a good comparison.
Any issues with tie down hardware? Are you using Torklift?

 

[PederKruger]

Thanks Peter, good to get a good comparison.
Any issues with tie down hardware? Are you using Torklift?

Yes, using Torklift brackets and Fastguns. Initially thought we would need the camper bracket extension but turned out was unnecessary. I will say that the truck still has a little bit of the “airbag sway” when going offroad (see photo for last week’s destination) but is not uncomfortable. One thing for sure, the RAM box/frame/chassis is rock solid. No twist or deflection like my old Ford.