Checklist - Air Bag Inspections; Air Springs - Holiday Navigator 2003 Owner's Manual

Chassis Information
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AIR SPRINGS

Checklist -
Air Bag Inspections
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Air ride springs are available in single, double and triple convolution types
plus reversible sleeve models for virtually every conceivable heavy-duty
vehicle suspension application.
1. STUD: Manufactured as a permanent part of bead plate assembly
for maximum strength and durability. Used to attach spring to the
vehicle's suspension.
2. BEAD PLATE: Crimped onto bellows at the factory for a
durable design and maximum quality control. Allows 100% leak
proof testing prior to shipment.
3. BELLOWS: "Air bag" includes four plies of material: an inner
layer, two plies of cord-reinforced fabric and an outer cover. Natural
rubber construction provides functional properties up to - 65º F.
4. BUMPERS: A solid rubber or engineered plastic device
designed to prevent significant damage to the vehicle or its
suspension in event of a sudden loss of air pressure in spring.
5. PISTON: Provides a lower mounting arrangement for air spring.
090269
Controls characteristics of spring under changing pressure loads.
6. PISTON BOLT: Attaches piston to bellows. Sometimes extended
as a means of attaching spring to vehicle suspension.
Listed below are items that can be checked when the motorhome is in for
periodic maintenance.
NOTE: Never attempt to service the air suspension on a
motorhome with the air bags inflated.
• Inspect the O.D. of the air springs. Check for signs of irregular
wear or heat cracking.
• Inspect the air lines to make sure contact doesn't exist between the
air line and the O.D. of the air springs. Air lines can rub a hole in
an air spring very quickly.
• Check to see that there is sufficient clearance around the complete
circumference of the air spring while at its maximum diameter.
• Inspect the O.D. of piston for buildup of foreign materials. (On a
reversible sleeve style air spring, the piston is the bottom component
of the air spring.)
• The correct ride height should be maintained. All motorhomes
with air springs have a specified ride height established by the
manufacturer. This height should be maintained within ¼ in. This
dimension can be checked with the vehicle loaded or empty.
• The leveling valves (or height control valves) play a large part in
ensuring that the total air spring system works as required. Clean,
inspect and replace if necessary.
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