Front (4) Air Bag Replacement 2002 Patriot Thunder

[Robert Green]

Hello All
I had the coach in for CAT PM, Allison Transynd conversion, and a general once over.  It was pointed out that the front air bags are showing dry rot.

I pulled and ordered the correct part.  I double checked with Matt at BCS that these were correct and he confirmed (1R11-121 Goodyear Rolling).

Stengel Bros had the best price with shipping (plus found a 2% off online coupon) and provided an excellent online purchase experience.   
4 x $216.83
Subtotal: $867.32
Discount: $17.35
Shipping: $46.72
Sales Tax: $0.00
Total: $896.69

I got around to pulling the first bag this evening.  Everything looks like it will match up and mount no problem. 

The old bag is 10" plate to plate.  The new bag is 11 3/8.

My question: Are the new bags going to compress and work properly?  I understand the correct ride height is 10" plate to plate. 

[Steve Huber Co-Admin]

Bob,
Not sure if your coach has an SMC or Roadmaster chassis. 2002 was a transition year if my memory serves me. Following applies to an SMC chassis.
I lost a rear bag earlier this year to a tire blowout on the 2000 Marquis. My repair shop contacted BCS and was told that they couldn't locate the bag. I found them at NW RV Supply for about $125 each so bought a needed replacement & a spare. GoodYear bag, part # R12-431. Spec for inflated height is same as you quoted.  Un-inflated height (plate to plate) is about 8.5". Based on this I don't think your bags are correct.
Steve

[Robert Green]

Thanks Steve.  1R11-121 is what came off the front.  The part numbers match (old to new), but the size of the new bag is slightly taller. 

I'm experienced with settling that has to occur after installation of new metal leaf springs.  I'm wondering if something similar occurs with the air springs that forms these to the correct fitment.  Seems reasonable, but I don't want to damage the part if incorrect, or end up too high on the ride height.

[Robert Green]

So I'll answer my own question.

By the way, Magnum chassis.

Spoke to Florida Spring and Axle, Ft. Myers, FL first thing this morning (Rich is the man if you find yourself in SW Florida and need suspension, alignment, brake work).

Matching part numbers is a key factor, so we're good on that fact.

Rich said it is common for a new spring to be a bit taller than a worn spring.  The bag will stretch and settle once installed. 

Better safe than sorry.  Hope this helps others who are uninitiated in the ways of air springs. 

[Fred Brooks]

            Hi Robert,

    In the Magnum chassis manual appendix B on page III towards the rear it specs out 10" from mounting plate to mounting plate. This the same dimension for front or rear, Regards, Fred

[Robert Green]

Thanks Fred.  That's the height I had. 

Installed one of the bags, put the rig on the ground and fired up the motor.  The air system charged the bag which seated in just fine and is good to go. 

[Jerry Emert]

Fred, you mentioned a Magnum chassis manual.  Can you email me a copy or maybe provide it to be placed in the coach assist section?  I've searched for one for months with no luck.  Mine is a tag 10 bag system.  Thanks for the help.
Jerry

[Fred Brooks]

      Hi Jerry,

    Well, I tried to do an attachment to this response but the manual is 37k and the the forum has its limitations.
I'm going to try and find your e-mail and send it to you. Perhaps you can Bless those who would like a copy and post on Coach Assist. Regards, Fred

[Jerry Emert]

      Hi Jerry,

    Well, I tried to do an attachment to this response but the manual is 37k and the the forum has its limitations.
I'm going to try and find your e-mail and send it to you. Perhaps you can Bless those who would like a copy and post on Coach Assist. Regards, Fred

Thanks Fred!  Jemert@cfl.rr.com

[Fred Brooks]

    Jerry, took forever to send hope you got it. Fred

[Robert Green]

I too would appreciate that material.  Did it make it into Coach Assist?  If not, here's my home email. 

the808@me.com

Thanks!

[Fred Brooks]

        Hi Robert,

     Sent it your way, let me know if you got it. regards, Fred

[Jerry Emert]

    Jerry, took forever to send hope you got it. Fred

Fred, didn't get it.  Thanks for trying.
Jerry

[Fred Brooks]

      Gerry, I sent it to the Knights.ucr.edu address, just sent it again to the other address. It takes 17 minutes to off-load so let me know in about a half hour. Regards, Fred

[Jerry Emert]

      Gerry, I sent it to the Knights.ucr.edu address, just sent it again to the other address. It takes 17 minutes to off-load so let me know in about a half hour. Regards, Fred

gemert@knights.UCF.edu  lol, thanks for not giving up.  I appreciate it.
Jerry