Rear Airbag Install P30

[Schwarzkopf9]

Hey Guys, I'm looking to install airbag springs in the rear of my 1983 Winnebago Brave but am having problems locating an actual kit. I seem to find a lot of 1993 and later but none for 1983 ish. Is there a big difference between p30s from 83-93 regarding frame/suspension? I've never attempted this before so any help would be appreciated!

[Rickf1985]

They used many different types of suspension in these units, What do you have for springs? Leafs, air bags, rubber springs?

[Schwarzkopf9]

It has leaves from the factory. I have found this; http://www.sdtrucksprings.com/air-lift-57203-air-helper-springs-chevy-p30-p32

I have heard these can improve the ride, it seems that everytime  a slight breeze hits me the whole rig moves more than it should. I'm thinking either this or new springs are needed.

I have a slight sag on the rear and intend to replace the springs eventually, trying to get my best bang for the buck right now.

[Rickf1985]

They may help but if the springs are worn out then the air bags will just bounce along with them. Let me ask you this, are you used to driving a big old class A motor home? What you describe is what we all go through all the time. That and feeling like you are going to roll over in every turn. These things are top heavy plus they were given soft springs because people wanted a smooth ride so this is the ride you get. A good set of Bilstien shocks will help more than the air bags. But if you need to raise the rear end then the bags will do that. Just be aware that when you start putting 90-100 lbs. in them to lift that 6,000 lbs. it is going to start to give a harsh ride. You may find yourself letting some air back out.

[Schwarzkopf9]

You raise good points Rick, I have driven this for about four years on and off (like three or four times a year) so maybe 3k miles so, lots to learn still...lol

I think Ill start off with shocks to see if anything changes, cheapest things first and all...

[DaveVA78Chieftain]

For reference, Airlift says the 57203 and 88203 kits will fit a 1983 P30 chassis.

[circleD]

I've driven big heavy trucks fast for 20 years but when I started driving my HR 33 with a worn out suspension and leaning in every turn it scared me. But now it feels normal. On gusty days I'd rather not drive it. Smooth as glass going straight but turns and trucks passing me are shaky. Its part of the experience.

[turbinebronze]

Just a personal experience with air bags...The first time I drove my Travco a side wind hit it and I thought it was going to roll over on it's side! It was beyond scary! Air Lift doesn't list my MH, so I made my kits. I had to check ride height to buy the proper height bags. I mounted them separate from each other, so the air would not travel from one side to the other when leaning over in a cross wind. I could not believe the difference. It doesn't roll over in the wind, and rides nicer. I run 40 psi in each bag. It did not lift the vehicle up any appreciable amount.
  I don't know if this relates to a GM chassis, so take it with a grain of salt.
Just my 2 cents, Craig.