OME AAL or Airlift suspension.

[cnskate]

Apparently I pack too much camping gear, because my OME HD leafs go from 3" of lift to 1" or even less, depending on the gear I'm bringing. I'm having a hard time deciding if I want to fix this problem with an OME AAL, or install the Airlift air bag system.
They sell lift spacers now, so the airbag thing is a pretty straight forward install now. I like the "gee whiz" aspect of it, and the definitive height control. I wonder if it would inhibit articulation a lot, though.
The AAL is a little cheaper, but I've heard they give a harsh ride, and the lack of friction pads inhibits articulation as well.
Any thoughts?
Thanks

 

[madizell]

Add a leaf systems always produce a harder ride because they force arch the springs to increase spring rate. If you always carry a heavy load, perhaps it would not be much of an issue. if you switch back and forth with loads, the air system is superior. Don't think it will necessarily deprive you of articulation. At least one TJ Jeep in Australia is outback racing on airbag rear suspension without coils, just the bags, and does fine.

 

[ExpoMike]

I am looking to add an Airlift setup to mine. I have read a couple different people who have done it with great luck. I want this method so when I have the trailer hooked up and the XJ loaded, it won't sit as low but when empty I keep my OME ride.

Here is a link to Go Jeep's install.

http://go.jeep-xj.info/HowtoAirbagSuspension.htm

http://go.jeep-xj.info/HowtoAirbagHigherSuspension.htm

The only thing I need to do is to get my flexed out to max then do some measuring. I want to make sure I am not limiting my rear flex with bags too short. I got a PDF file from Airlift showing all the specs of their bags, so hopefully I will find one that works for me.

Hope that helps.

 

[Mashurst]

...so did you do it mike, cnskate? How do you like it? I'm contemplating them as well.

 

[saburai]

I'm intrested in this as well. My XJ just keeps getting heavier...

 

[ExpoMike]

I haven't done it yet as I am knee deep into my frame off '68 C10 project truck. The poor XJ is just not gettin' the love.

Actually, it has made it to a higher priority after this past weekend trip. With the fridge, dog and adding a few more things to haul on the trailer, I was noticing that I was hitting the rear bump stops a little more often.

What I need to do is get out and get the XJ flexed to max (swaybar disconnected) and measure the min. and max distance, total travel, etc. and then select a bag setup. I had contacted Airlift regarding their bags and mounting kits and they were happy to put something together for me. They sent me a PDF file that had their rear overload bags listed, with all the specs. There is a couple I have my eye on but need to make sure of my measurements first.

I will post up when I do something.

 

[saburai]

Thanks Mike! Keep us posted...

 

[CanuckMariner/Nomad]

Ever thought of phoning ARB and asking them which they might recommend given your circumstance? I think they would know best.

 

[ExpoMike]

Ever thought of phoning ARB and asking them which they might recommend given your circumstance? I think they would know best.

Since I am very happy with the ride and height unloaded, adding any AAL is going to change one or both of those items. With an air bag system, I only use it when I need it. Ride won't change when unloaded nor lift height.

That is the advantage of having something adjustable versus a static value. YMMV. :ylsmoke:

 

[bat]

I just added a Ome AAL and I did not see any change in my ride, being a full leaf it works with the others. It added about 1" of lift and I just greased up between the leafs and everything is great.

 

[ddog45]

sag

I put alcan springs on my 69 commando front and rear and I thought they were sweet.

 

[cnskate]

I went with the AAL and it works pretty well. The ride is a little stiffer unloaded, but not bad, and it actually rides better when loaded and has yet to bottom out. They have started to squeak pretty bad though, and I have to WD40 them about once a month. I think my makeshift plastic bushings fell out.

I might end up doing air bags too if the load for my next big trip brings it down too much, so the answer might be both

 

[winkosmosis]

I went with the AAL and it works pretty well. The ride is a little stiffer unloaded, but not bad, and it actually rides better when loaded and has yet to bottom out. They have started to squeak pretty bad though, and I have to WD40 them about once a month. I think my makeshift plastic bushings fell out.

I might end up doing air bags too if the load for my next big trip brings it down too much, so the answer might be both

You might want to try some other lube. WD 40 is mostly kerosene that evaporates. How about some light silicone oil?

 

[blueeyeddevil]

A Light silicone oil, or a Teflon spray.

 

[saburai]

Great thread!

In thinking about my usage, an AAL is probably the better solution. My load out is pretty consistent - RTT stays on and the tools and Jerry cans stay on/in as well.

What is considered to be the best AAL? OME? Who is a good on line supplier?

Many Thanks...