3500 Auto-Level Long Term Maintenance & Life Span

[TCollier]

I’ve got two trucks that are on my radar. Each salesmen have both threw down some good deals and I think there is a little more to work with. One has the Auto-Level option. I like the concept, purpose and all that it is but it was never anything I was actually shopping for. I figured if one came with it, then thats fine.
My question is, 10 years from now what am I going to be dealing with on that Auto-Level system? Aren’t these Firestone bags? If that is the case they aren’t too expensive. But what about the pump, solenoids, tubing, fittings, switches, sensors and such. 10 years to leaf springs is nothing to worry about, at least for me. What do you suppose the longevity / upkeep of this system is?

 

[Newsa]

Oxygen will decompose it over time. Most don't look 10 years down the road when they buy.

 

[grabinov]

I guarantee you that your 8.4AN radio will die before your air-ride system - three times!

 

[TCollier]

Yes it will.

I’m just going to get the truck I think the deal is right for. If I get that one, and in 10 years I have to replace something with that system, it should just end up being better anyway. I’ll know what I do and don’t like and everybody will have a good idea of what works and what doesn’t.
Listening to guys that have it really like what it does. The only complaint I’ve heard is the limited adjustment choices, which I think I could accept.

 

[grabinov]

Every time I go a month or two without towing my big trailer, I think "I wish I didn't have the (2500) auto-level (air-ride) suspension" - There are many more "lift" and suspension options for the standard suspension.

Then I tow my trailer and remember:

The Air Ride is AWESOME with a heavy trailer - perfect level ride all the time
I can't lift my truck anyway or my 5th wheel trailer won't reach!
The truck is ALREADY taller and has bigger tires than my lifted 2004
If I have to run the Baja 5000 I won't do it in this truck (too nice) - LOL
Warranty Good
The people who say "nice truck" every time I pull into a parking lot are the 40 year olds, not the 17 year olds. That seems - appropriate - at least...