I own a 2019 RAM with air suspension. This is important - WHEN YOU DISCONNECT A FIFTH WHEEL TRAILER, lower the bed fully in BED LOWERING mode, and then select TIRE JACK mode. This temporarily shuts the air suspension off. If you don't do this, your truck will RISE UP immediately when the trailer disconnects and your truck's box will strike the trailer near the pinbox. Trust me, I know. It happened twice before I figured it out.
You could do it that way but I found it easier to raise the trailer to to the point were you see the truck just start to go up- pause at that point and let the air suspension correct itself, (lower pressure). You may need to do it once more but when you lift the trailer and see it lift off the hitch you can pull out without the truck raising and potentially hitting the trailer.
A tape measure would have been fantastic. Having a reference (front and back) of before, with load squat and after it levels out to alternate height would have been great.
My Ram dually has the factory air ride. I always use the ALT ride height to soften the ride as it only takes out about an inch. My rv only uses about 1/2 the available cargo capacity at 2700 lbs on the pin. Another plus is you always have a level truck, no need for a level kit which in turn causes a nose high front end when towing heavy. Downside is expensive repairs, I've heard of people taking it off instead of spending the money to fix it, might want to think of extended warranty.
Wow thanks for sharing! That really is nice to be able to level the truck! Because I live in colder climates, I decided against it but I haven’t heard of people having a lot of issues but I do plan on holding on to this truck for awhile! Thanks for sharing the info!
I came really close to getting the air suspension on mine, but couldn’t find a “real world video” demo with an RV to convince me. This video should help many.
Kelly 411 unloaded it will ride better than one without air suspension. The 2500 looses the coil springs for the bags which contributes to the better ride.
I have the system on my 2017. It is great. It automatically will adjust back up. It does it in a delayed way, so beware. It does not level the trailer, it just levels out the truck so you are running in the right way. I tow trailers for a living and have 200K miles in towing. It is cool. I am purchasing a new one and will get an aftermarket system on the next one because they are less expensive to buy and maintain.
JB there is a way better way to use the suspension. when you go to unhook the trailer, take it out of alt trailer height. This will raise the truck. Block your trailer up and then go into the uconnect and put it in towing mode. My 2019 Ram calls it bed lowering mode. Its under controls in the uconnect. But I have the 8.4. When in bed lowering mode or transport mode it will lower the bed and it will make the frame sit on the bumpstops. Mine moves 4 inches from Normal mode to transport mode, alt mode is a inch lower than normal mode but makes the truck level. No need for a leveling kit:) another plus for the air suspension. This will pull your ball out of your trailer and you will not have to use the trailer jacks. Let the truck do the work. Now that your trailer is off the truck and blocked up, drive the truck out and the suspension will return to ride height by itself once you drive far/fast enough. When hooking the trailer up. Go into transport mode, drive under the trailer, hit the switch to go to normal ride height and the truck will lift the trailer off of your blocks. remove the blocks and drive away. Go in to alt height mode and your truck will stay level as you drive. I could not find a good video when I ordered my truck so I just bought the suspension anyway. Now the 3500 with air will not move from normal height mode to alt mode without a load. I think because the leaf springs hold the truck up. The truck will tell you there is not enough payload to achieve alt trailer height. Sorry for the long winded comment but there is just not enough info about the air suspension. And the manual is not help for telling you how to use it.
@@DelusionalPvP that is correct. I drive around in alt mode all the time. But you don't have to turn it on everytime you get in the truck like the exhaust brake.
Great video. How do you decouple the 5th wheel? Every time I begin to raise the trailer to decouple from the hitch, the truck feels the weight coming off and begins to raise the bed. This makes it extremely difficult to unhitch. I have to turn the engine off unhitch. Thanks
Bet that truck is overloaded according to the door sticker. Best way for the air suspension to work on that truck is to set it to Alt Ride height first. Then pin up and the truck will level out. At your destination, when you take the weight away the truck will lower.
@@JB_WhoWork Actually, it may not be. The air bags have a sensor on it that will tell you if its overloaded. The only time those airbags seem to state this is when you are over 3k-3500 pounds on the rear. Try is out on another video, would be cool to see if you can try to "max" the rear air.
Joe Fairfield the original post was stating the truck was over on the Payload of the truck. I’m not sure where the air suspension is set to but I’m sure it’s around where you stated for 3/4 tons. Thanks for sharing!
If and when you find out let us know if there is an alert or sensor for the payload on the air suspension. You should upgrade to the black it’s beautiful with that camper. I have a 2018 2500 Laramie with Black Pearl and when the sun hits it it is beautiful!
Brandon Blair in terms of speed I find from 0 they are very similar but from rolling speeds, the HO really shines. Normal day to day driving the asin is aggressive in shifting compare to 68RFE but the engines act the same under normal operation.
I have the quad air suspension on my 2013 1500 tow a 30 foot camper hooking up and getting through the hills and mountains makes it easy and smooth. Would never buy another truck without it. This 2500 operates differently, I can control four levels from the switches
Thanks for sharing, the 2500 is strictly for towing with some ride enhancements and the 1/2 tons are for the later in including off-roading and easy entry/exit. I would love to tow with one to see how it handles 👍🏾
I'm going to assume that you are referring to a Camp Trailer that is 30 foot and not a Camper. 30 foot sounds like a lot of weight to be towing with a small Pickup. And yes the system in the 1500 Pickup is completely different and intended for comfort and ride height. The system in this Truck is just the rear and intended for towing and hauling. It's a Auto Leveling system so it doesn't change the Overall ride height or comfort at the push of a button.
@@jamesglenn520 It's a starcraft ar one, quad air levels on the fly front and rear and assists with load levelling and sway. It's not too heavy under 5k. That is not heavy for a half ton set up to tow.
@@joelsmithers6887 Oh yep. Star craft does have some lighter trails. We actually have the small 15 extreme that we pull with our jku jeeps empty it's like 2600 lbs. We just a week ago bought a new Ram 3500 DRW so we can pull doubles for now and take our Rykers with us. Then in a few years upgrade to a large toy hauler so we can put the Rykers inside and not do doubles.
You know I had a thought come to me. I wonder how many people get lulled into a false sense of security with this. The truck will level out and they think well it's not squatting everything must be good to go, when in reality they are over payload capacity, and possibly axle rating too.
The system monitors air bag psi and will display a warning on the cluster if over payload. Uses the ride height sensors and bag size to make the determination.
Air bag overload and payload being over I believe are different things. Payload is probably about 2100 to 2200 lbs. I bet you are overweight with that 5th wheel... Check your door sticker. I have the 2017 2500 with air suspension and I love mine.
It may level the truck fine, but does it put the weight back on the front wheels like a weight distribution system would? Level with lite steer input is still dangerous
By tipping the rear of the truck back up it transfers the weight forward again. You can see it in the video. ⚠️And he used this large trailer for demonstration purposes only ⚠️ This truck is not big enough to tow that trailer successfully or safely and probably not legally! 👍
@@chucknSC It absolutely 💯% transfers weight. You are tipping the scale at the rear-end when it raises. You can see it in the video. And after 40+ years of pulling stock and flatbed GN trailers I know for a fact that if not loaded properly they can take a ton of weight off your steer axel👍👌
@@jamesglenn520 raising the rear end does very little to shift the center of gravity of the front/rear distribution. Do the calculation for front rear axle weight and nowhere in the formulas will you need height. "Tipping the scales" doesn't affect how much weight is on opposite ends of the balance beam until something counteracts the imbalance.
@@chucknSC How many Truck Trailer combinations have you Professionally towed on the highway with air bags? And how many of those were heavy enough to require weighing the Axels at the weigh stations? Or trailers with sliding axels?
I do like the idea of the system but I install my own airbags on everything I own and I like the ability to control my pressure. The other thing I don’t like is the trucks with the air suspension is lower from factory than the trucks with just springs. Good video.
Yea I agree, the system does handcuff you if you prefer a certain ride height or pressure. The ride however on this truck is amazing and I recommend it if that’s important. Thanks for the info!
Not sure how I should share them. Have you conditioned your leather surfaces in your truck yet? If so, what did you use? I’d like to find something unscented so I don’t lose that smell.
fivesfilms I use meguiars but it does have a sent which goes away within a few hours. The leather RAM uses holds it “new smell” pretty long which is nice!
Another nice video, JB. I ordered my 2017 RAM 3500 SRW Mega Cab Limited with the auto leveling and I love it. Once you add significant weight onto the rear of the truck, when switched on it comes on in delay to merely take the truck back to level. I'm not so sure they help non-towing ride quality. In 2017, the 2500 came with coil rear suspension which offers a much nicer ride. My 3500 has the super stiff heavy duty leaf springs which bounce you around quite a bit when non-towing. After one month of that, I swapped to the KYB 5100-B shocks on all four corners which really dampened the bumpiness quite well. I also run tire pressure at 65 psi in front and 55 psi in rear while not towing to help smooth the ride and it helps, too. I go back to 80 psi all around when towing, and the ride is super smooth. My 5th wheel is a 2018 full profile drop frame 39 foot Montana, so I had to have the 3500 for extra capacity. Gotta watch those combined weights and capacities for safety.
Nice! Yea the air suspension is really nice if you don’t want after market setups. I do like the fact when you add load the truck senses it and adjust. I bet you can’t even feel the Montana back there! Thanks for sharing 👍🏾
How do you Not Overheat and destroy your tires running them that low. I bet if you dismount one of the front ones after a few thousands miles and look at the inside it's probably not pretty.
70-80+° outside run down the highway at 60-70mph for 5-10 miles. Pull over and I bet you probably can't hold your hand on the front tires because they are so hot. That is why a lot of people have trailer tire problems also. They don't read the side walls and run the manufacturer suggested PSI in their tires.
That’s very interesting. I decided to skip it on my build sheet and still feel pretty neutral about the system. I strongly recommend it for 3/4 tons but for 1 tons it’s a toss up. Thanks for the info!
@@JB_WhoWork well 2500 is a complete air ride only in rear. 3500 just has air assist. 1 less left spring. So it makes and even bigger difference in the 3500 that still uses leafs... interesting u vote for 1 and not the other
That's strange because my Jeep Grande Cherokee Overland had the 4 corner air suspension and I never had a problem with it in the 3 years I owned it. That thing saw more dirt than pavement.
Beautiful truck! I traded a 2015 Jeep GC with the 5.7 Hemi and air suspension for a 2018 Ford F-150. I also looked at the Ram. Loved the truck. Just didn’t get as good a deal from Ram as I did my Ford dealer. VERY happy with my truck but that Ram with the KY Derby edition (I’m from Louisville originally 😊) is a damn nice truck. I miss having an air suspension. It was nice in an off-road SUV but has SO much usefulness for towing stuff this 2500 will be hooking up to.
I was just there! The JGC w/ a HEMI is in a class of its own! I’ve never towed with one but would love to see how it levels out. Very surprised Ford won the price battle but then again, RAM has really stepped up their game and they don’t have to give them away anymore which is good for resale. I need to do some videos on Ford 1/2 tons because I’ve yet to crack a door on one. Thanks for sharing👍🏾
JB Reviews You bet! And as for the pricing, I think it really just came down to the specific dealerships I went to. My Ford dealer really stepped up and gave me a great deal. Ram wasn’t anywhere close (it’s a lease...but very likely going to keep it) which really bummed me out because I was really looking at going with Ram since I had the Jeep and was very happy with that. Anyway, great vid. Thanks for the reply. Hope you have a good weekend! Looking forward to more vids (especially if you take a look at the F150). 😊 And hope you had fun in Louisville! 😜
Absolutely 💯% True 👍 And I know that this is a video for the Truck Suspension. I hope others understand this and don't try to towing a trailer that large with a truck that size 😂🤣 3500 DRW is the smallest I would ever use for a Triple Suspension anything!!
Love your detail and different timing and angels. I have a 2019 1500 thinking of going up to the 2500 or 3500 with HO. Hoping for an 8 speed soon. Had a F250 before missing the diesel.
Thanks! Yea once you go diesel it’s hard to forget that massive tq and diesel sound. I have enjoyed driving my 1500 but nothing can replace my 3500 HO!
How much does the camper weigh? I loose 3 1/4 inches with mine on an 07 2500 w/o air . Looking for a new one cant decide if I want 2500 or 3500. Your videos are very informative. So could you get weight of camper so I could compare to my weight of mine. Thanks
My pin weight is 2600#’s and total trailer weight is 12500#’s. I would skip 2500 and go straight to 3500 because you will run out of payload. This truck in the video is not “legally” capable of towing this RV but I wanted to use it to show the air suspension features and capabilities. Thanks for watching!
@@JB_WhoWork Thank you so much. I am a fan of the Limited mega cab. Now to decided dually or not.. I've never owned a dually but I drive big trucks for a living. How does the duallies handle in snow? If you know. We dont get alot but occasionally we get some. Thanks so much
No problem! I’ve personally have never driven one in snow but I’m sure it’s going to get traction better than a SRW. A dually will do a better job at keeping you within your GVWR especially if you want a high trim PKG. I’m about 700#’s away and my trailer is pretty light for pin weight. Thanks for sharing!
The Mega Cab is not going to be a convenient option if you want to tow a 5th wheel. The box is short and you have to have one of the Junk Sliding hitches to make turning tight possible. Long/standard box for 5th wheel is the best option 👌 👍
@@jamesglenn520 Depends on the trailer. A lot of the newer stuff have angled noses so that's not too much of a problem. You'll just have to check the trailer you want or have and see if a slider is needed.
Hey JB! Do you have any videos or suggestions on how to correct 5th Wheel dragging on the back? I have the Montana 21 377FL towing with a 2017 Ram 3500 dually. I have bags installed on the truck but the rear of this trailer is too low. Thanks in advance for any suggestions or direction.
Man, I will watch that video again! You were definitely the one that introduced us to this floor plan! We were so excited I must have missed that part! Thank you for the response and all your videos!
Is your trailer towing Flat?? If it's high in the front your hitch is to tall. You should have Minimal Rake on your trailer. If you're flat now the only solution is to flip the axels and raise the hitch in the truck.
Hey, great info. I'm a rookie on air suspension... And maybe you covered this and I missed it. Does GMC recommend a certain airbag system? And, airbags are used in combination with the existing leaf springs, they don't replace the leafs? Is that correct? Thank you for any input! I'm going to start following your channel. Take care.
Thanks, you can go with any of the airbag manufactures you want. I’m sure there is a lot that will fit for GMC and it will not replace the leaf springs. Thanks for the sub 👍🏾
As always great video man. That truck looks sick in front of that trailer. The air bags are cool for sure, but you know how I feel about them. Not that I am against them, just in my case they are a moot point. I am all about payload capacity. If you leave an 80 percent margin under max payload you will be fine, but that just me. I don't think anyone should operate at max capacity at any time. Air bags are a very nice feature, don't get me wrong, I am just not sold on them yet.
Thanks! The biggest benefit to me is if I want a truck that is turn key from the factory without having to go aftermarket for anything then the system would be added. I too am not sold on the system for the 3500’s only because the ride is somewhat better but not noticeably better. Also the system has very little adjustments. Maybe in the future as time goes they will continue to make the system better and offer more height levels.
@@JB_WhoWork Looking at getting a 3500 Ram this summer depending on the microprocessor shortage. But looking at the brochures and the website, it should be the same air suspension system as on the 3/4 ton, no difference that they've said.
Tell me, that truck is legally overloaded, right? My 2018 Ram 2500 4x4 Limited Cummins is right on the edge as far as cargo capacity just hauling my 30 foot, supposedly half ton towable travel trailer. I'm talking legal capacities as per the manufactures rating. I didn't believe it either. Cat scale and also a very detailed weigh of each wheel separately, truck hitched and unhitched to weigh individually. Waste tanks empty fresh water full as per the organization that conducts the test. They want you to be ready to boondock. I almost never run with more than 20 gals of fresh water. Trailer loaded weighs 8,000 lbs. there is NO possibility of shifting weight rearward. I do have the factory air suspension. Run very well outfitted, tools up to 3/4 drive for a few things, I could change out a leaf spring on the side of the road if I had to for instance. Spares for everything that can and WILL go wrong while interstate traveling by RV. My rig fears no grade up or down even when overweight. I want to move up to something like the fifth wheel in this video but it seems like it will take a one ton which I don't want to do. You don't ever want to be surrounded by lawyers in a deposition explaining your overloaded rig, don't ask me how i know, Lol! Love my Tungsten Edition Cummins powered Ram.
@@JB_WhoWork thanks JB, love you bro! Hey what do you think about towing in "alternate trailer height"? 1,100 lbs of tongue weight on my 2018 Ram 2500 four by. That mode seems to level things just right including the attitude of the trailer.
I usually complain about you driving on my grass, but I do have a real suggestion. You may have measured before and after at the wheel well to see if it adjusts to the proper height when towing a heavy load. I always believed that the air suspension was as much for drivers coming at you at night, so you don't blind them, as well as your ride.
That is one of the benefits for it if your towing something heavy on the tongue. My truck rides about level and I find my headlights to be too high so I think oncoming is going to get some glare from the headlights unless you adjust down manually. Thanks for sharing and I promise🤞to stay off your grass 😎!
Great review brah 👍Wow! My next order truck will have air suspension. I think I'm in da Market now. Should've did an test drive into Baltimore roads for any bounce 🤣🤣
If you are using a Truck for it's intended purpose you don't want to Lift it anyway. Now if you own a Pickup to daily drive and take to the Mall you can lift it all you want 😂🤣
Nice truck. I have a 17’ crew cab shirt bed. I put aftermarket bags on mine. And it helps. I’m thinking about trading for a one ton single wheel long bed with the aisin. Was looking at the fords but it’s hard for me to get away from the Cummins
Dumb question here but if you aren’t towing anything will you still have a nice ride quality with the air suspension. I’m thinking about getting the air suspension for light towing. But more for the ride quality
I’m in the market for a limited mega cab with the high output, but I want to know when will they offer the panoramic roof instead of that little sunroof? I want that thing loaded with marker lights, auxiliary buttons, level 1 package, heated/cooled seats, 6’4 bed, tool box delete, premium L.E.D. Light package, the works! I want this thing to tickle my balls while I truck down the road! I’m searching America for my truck, what can your guy Shel, do for me? Best price, quick completion of the order and giving me exactly what I want?
Yo. Ik you like personally know you. I havent seen you since church. Are you still in the same area. Ill be comming. Back home soon hopefully your still going to the same church. If you dont remeber me my dads thomas he used to work with the cameras in the church in the mornings.
@@JB_WhoWork im good man idk how you popped up on my feed but you are out here!!! Great content btw. Hope you and the family are doing well. Keep up the good work.
@@JB_WhoWork Army is Army. Thats all i gotta say lol. But im starting part time army now converting to state police. So ill be heading back home soon thank god.
What do you mean "air suspension?" Do you mean "Airbags?" Air suspension is only on the Ram 1500 and it's on all four corners. What you are dealing with on the HD truck is "Air bags" bro.
Hey FYI 👋 It says (RAM AIR SUSPENSION) on the back window of my week old 3500 CC DRW 4×4 TRUCK!! So your argument about what it is called is Wrong 😂🤣 Now what You Think it should be called is just Your Opinion not the Manufacturers 👍👌
Jb great video as always. I am currently installing a Carli lift on my 2019 2500 limited with air suspension. Kits are available for these trucks. Will post a video soon. Also Ram called today 2020 HD’s will open for orders on the 5th. Check out my channel for update..
I would never buy a black vehicle way too hot in the summer way too hard to take care of. Do you really want to spend all your time washing your vehicle and drying it taken care of it or is this time just to go have fun and not screw around with your vehicle I would be way more interested in buying a white vehicle
Man you are a Dip💩!! Lol If you are so worried about how clean your ride is you should stick to eating Crayons instead of driving. And believe me a White vehicle shows the dirt just as bad!! I know this because I own an 09 Black JKU Rubicon and a 10 White JKU Sport. Have owned both since they were New and never been through a car wash only at home by hand 👍 So you really don't have a clue what you are BABBLING ABOUT 🥴🤤🤪👌
JB Reviews you are absolutely right. I have owned a lot of black vehicles I could not resist. There was a black one exactly like my truck on the lot when I bought mine a couple of weeks ago. I chose the delmonico red for cleaning reasons and I liked the color to. It still shows dirt but not like black would. I don’t want to work that hard anymore.
Are you supposed to wash Black vehicles more often than others? I guess I better get out there my Black 09 JKU Rubicon has not had any soap or a brush on it since about this time last year 🤔 I have sprayed it off with the hose a few times though!! Even if I wash it it doesn't run better/faster or more MPG!! LOL 😆 🤣
Never buy a factory air suspension they are garbage you will be in the shop all the time never buy 2502 week in the back fifth wheels belong to one tons and 1 ton Dooley’s
I own a 2019 RAM with air suspension. This is important - WHEN YOU DISCONNECT A FIFTH WHEEL TRAILER, lower the bed fully in BED LOWERING mode, and then select TIRE JACK mode. This temporarily shuts the air suspension off. If you don't do this, your truck will RISE UP immediately when the trailer disconnects and your truck's box will strike the trailer near the pinbox. Trust me, I know. It happened twice before I figured it out.
Thanks for this info!
Thanks for this info!
You could do it that way but I found it easier to raise the trailer to to the point were you see the truck just start to go up- pause at that point and let the air suspension correct itself, (lower pressure). You may need to do it once more but when you lift the trailer and see it lift off the hitch you can pull out without the truck raising and potentially hitting the trailer.
@ G Alexander, if u still have the truck please send me a PM so I can contact u w/some questions, thanks
I’m really glad I saw this before I used mine. I didn’t even think of this.
A tape measure would have been fantastic. Having a reference (front and back) of before, with load squat and after it levels out to alternate height would have been great.
My Ram dually has the factory air ride. I always use the ALT ride height to soften the ride as it only takes out about an inch. My rv only uses about 1/2 the available cargo capacity at 2700 lbs on the pin. Another plus is you always have a level truck, no need for a level kit which in turn causes a nose high front end when towing heavy. Downside is expensive repairs, I've heard of people taking it off instead of spending the money to fix it, might want to think of extended warranty.
Wow thanks for sharing! That really is nice to be able to level the truck! Because I live in colder climates, I decided against it but I haven’t heard of people having a lot of issues but I do plan on holding on to this truck for awhile! Thanks for sharing the info!
I came really close to getting the air suspension on mine, but couldn’t find a “real world video” demo with an RV to convince me. This video should help many.
Thanks! It’s a great option to have sense it’s factory installed and covered under warranty!
Just bought a Ram 2500 with this suspension. Great video for explaining how it works, thanks
Thinking of ordering a Ram 2500 with the air suspension as well. Does it actually improve ride quality?
Yes it does
Only when loaded or does it make a noticeable difference when empty?
Kelly 411 unloaded it will ride better than one without air suspension. The 2500 looses the coil springs for the bags which contributes to the better ride.
Ok thank you JB!
Love this demonstration test, Great!!
I have the system on my 2017. It is great. It automatically will adjust back up. It does it in a delayed way, so beware. It does not level the trailer, it just levels out the truck so you are running in the right way.
I tow trailers for a living and have 200K miles in towing. It is cool. I am purchasing a new one and will get an aftermarket system on the next one because they are less expensive to buy and maintain.
I have one of the first ones with the air suspension, (2014 2500), love it. Rides great and awesome for towing.
JB there is a way better way to use the suspension. when you go to unhook the trailer, take it out of alt trailer height. This will raise the truck. Block your trailer up and then go into the uconnect and put it in towing mode. My 2019 Ram calls it bed lowering mode. Its under controls in the uconnect. But I have the 8.4.
When in bed lowering mode or transport mode it will lower the bed and it will make the frame sit on the bumpstops. Mine moves 4 inches from Normal mode to transport mode, alt mode is a inch lower than normal mode but makes the truck level. No need for a leveling kit:) another plus for the air suspension. This will pull your ball out of your trailer and you will not have to use the trailer jacks. Let the truck do the work.
Now that your trailer is off the truck and blocked up, drive the truck out and the suspension will return to ride height by itself once you drive far/fast enough.
When hooking the trailer up. Go into transport mode, drive under the trailer, hit the switch to go to normal ride height and the truck will lift the trailer off of your blocks. remove the blocks and drive away. Go in to alt height mode and your truck will stay level as you drive.
I could not find a good video when I ordered my truck so I just bought the suspension anyway.
Now the 3500 with air will not move from normal height mode to alt mode without a load. I think because the leaf springs hold the truck up. The truck will tell you there is not enough payload to achieve alt trailer height.
Sorry for the long winded comment but there is just not enough info about the air suspension. And the manual is not help for telling you how to use it.
So on the 2500 in order to have a level truck with the air suspension you have to be in alt trailer height even without a trailer?
@@DelusionalPvP that is correct. I drive around in alt mode all the time. But you don't have to turn it on everytime you get in the truck like the exhaust brake.
Thanks for sharing this, next time I find a truck with the option I will test it
I have a 2019 with Cummins Laramie with factory air suspension and I pull a 26 foot Flagstaff love the air suspension
Great video. How do you decouple the 5th wheel? Every time I begin to raise the trailer to decouple from the hitch, the truck feels the weight coming off and begins to raise the bed. This makes it extremely difficult to unhitch. I have to turn the engine off unhitch. Thanks
Nice setup. Will definitely get this option on my 2500. Thanks for sharing.
Good informative video for the curious.
Thank you the effort you put into it!
Appreciate it!
Bet that truck is overloaded according to the door sticker.
Best way for the air suspension to work on that truck is to set it to Alt Ride height first. Then pin up and the truck will level out. At your destination, when you take the weight away the truck will lower.
Most definitely it is. Thanks for the info, hoping I can try this again sense I was press for time the day I shot this footage.
@@JB_WhoWork Actually, it may not be. The air bags have a sensor on it that will tell you if its overloaded. The only time those airbags seem to state this is when you are over 3k-3500 pounds on the rear. Try is out on another video, would be cool to see if you can try to "max" the rear air.
Joe Fairfield the original post was stating the truck was over on the Payload of the truck. I’m not sure where the air suspension is set to but I’m sure it’s around where you stated for 3/4 tons. Thanks for sharing!
If and when you find out let us know if there is an alert or sensor for the payload on the air suspension. You should upgrade to the black it’s beautiful with that camper. I have a 2018 2500 Laramie with Black Pearl and when the sun hits it it is beautiful!
RTFM.
Oh boy you gonna trade yours in on this one? Haha. Great video as always JB.
Lmao!!!! Man if I had a garage I would!😂😂😂
Cougar looks great behind a black truck!
JB Reviews yes it does look good. Can you tell a difference in the regular Cummins vs the HO - Aisin in your truck?
Brandon Blair in terms of speed I find from 0 they are very similar but from rolling speeds, the HO really shines. Normal day to day driving the asin is aggressive in shifting compare to 68RFE but the engines act the same under normal operation.
Great review- and if he supports you then when trucks become available- I will definitely give him a call 🍻
I would love to see a heavy trailer tow test with Ford's 7.3L Godzilla
How do you have a video for literally everything I search for? This is nuts
I have the quad air suspension on my 2013 1500 tow a 30 foot camper hooking up and getting through the hills and mountains makes it easy and smooth. Would never buy another truck without it.
This 2500 operates differently, I can control four levels from the switches
Thanks for sharing, the 2500 is strictly for towing with some ride enhancements and the 1/2 tons are for the later in including off-roading and easy entry/exit. I would love to tow with one to see how it handles 👍🏾
I'm going to assume that you are referring to a Camp Trailer that is 30 foot and not a Camper.
30 foot sounds like a lot of weight to be towing with a small Pickup.
And yes the system in the 1500 Pickup is completely different and intended for comfort and ride height.
The system in this Truck is just the rear and intended for towing and hauling.
It's a Auto Leveling system so it doesn't change the Overall ride height or comfort at the push of a button.
@@jamesglenn520 It's a starcraft ar one, quad air levels on the fly front and rear and assists with load levelling and sway. It's not too heavy under 5k. That is not heavy for a half ton set up to tow.
@@joelsmithers6887 Oh yep. Star craft does have some lighter trails. We actually have the small 15 extreme that we pull with our jku jeeps empty it's like 2600 lbs.
We just a week ago bought a new Ram 3500 DRW so we can pull doubles for now and take our Rykers with us.
Then in a few years upgrade to a large toy hauler so we can put the Rykers inside and not do doubles.
You know I had a thought come to me. I wonder how many people get lulled into a false sense of security with this. The truck will level out and they think well it's not squatting everything must be good to go, when in reality they are over payload capacity, and possibly axle rating too.
The system monitors air bag psi and will display a warning on the cluster if over payload. Uses the ride height sensors and bag size to make the determination.
@@okcmoparguy724 okay that's something I did not know. Thanks.
@@BigDThatsMe No problem....I meant to say air bag psi and ride height sensors btw. I was skeptical when they came out but they've been very reliable.
Air bag overload and payload being over I believe are different things. Payload is probably about 2100 to 2200 lbs. I bet you are overweight with that 5th wheel... Check your door sticker. I have the 2017 2500 with air suspension and I love mine.
@@paulvernon1882 yes I agree. Air bags do nothing for payload. They only help to level.
How much does your trailer weigh dry?
It may level the truck fine, but does it put the weight back on the front wheels like a weight distribution system would? Level with lite steer input is still dangerous
No weight transfer, it just lifts. But a gooseneck doesn't lift the front end.
By tipping the rear of the truck back up it transfers the weight forward again.
You can see it in the video.
⚠️And he used this large trailer for demonstration purposes only ⚠️
This truck is not big enough to tow that trailer successfully or safely and probably not legally! 👍
@@chucknSC It absolutely 💯% transfers weight. You are tipping the scale at the rear-end when it raises.
You can see it in the video.
And after 40+ years of pulling stock and flatbed GN trailers I know for a fact that if not loaded properly they can take a ton of weight off your steer axel👍👌
@@jamesglenn520 raising the rear end does very little to shift the center of gravity of the front/rear distribution. Do the calculation for front rear axle weight and nowhere in the formulas will you need height. "Tipping the scales" doesn't affect how much weight is on opposite ends of the balance beam until something counteracts the imbalance.
@@chucknSC How many Truck Trailer combinations have you Professionally towed on the highway with air bags?
And how many of those were heavy enough to require weighing the Axels at the weigh stations? Or trailers with sliding axels?
I do like the idea of the system but I install my own airbags on everything I own and I like the ability to control my pressure. The other thing I don’t like is the trucks with the air suspension is lower from factory than the trucks with just springs. Good video.
Yea I agree, the system does handcuff you if you prefer a certain ride height or pressure. The ride however on this truck is amazing and I recommend it if that’s important. Thanks for the info!
That is not true I have a Ram with an air suspension that sits higher than one with springs
Shawn Clark Maybe a 3500 compared to a 2500.
Truck and Camperin I have herd trucks with springs set 1-2 inches higher unloaded as well. Can you elaborate more on this?
I guess the upside to having the factory installed airbags is that you can use the compressor to install a train horn.
😂
Real Train horns (not the imitation crap sold on eBay) require 140+ psi of pressure and A LOT of volume. This RAM compressor can't do it
Wow can you
What trim is this? It looks like a longhorn grill with limited everything else
Kentucky Derby
What is the model of your 5th wheel midbunk. What's the dry weight for it as well and the towing capacity and gvwr for the dodge
Wonder why the 3500 has leaf springs and airbags but the 2500 is all air bag on the rear. Airbags can handle the weight.
Semi trucks have the same setup as the 2500. Because RAM uses coils in the rear for 2500, they figure it doesn’t make sense to run with airbags.
Coils is what makes it ride smoother.
But you Sacrifice Payload.
My new 3500 DRW can haul just shy of 6k in the bed.
How do you think that would work out with a 8' flatbed for doing hotshot ?
Looks like I'm gonna need this in my next truck
It works really well!
JB, finally picking mine up today. I got hail damage on my trade in 2018 and had to wait until the insurance could look at it and do an estimate. 😖
Man that was a long time! Rather late then never! Be sure to share some photos!
Not sure how I should share them.
Have you conditioned your leather surfaces in your truck yet? If so, what did you use? I’d like to find something unscented so I don’t lose that smell.
fivesfilms I use meguiars but it does have a sent which goes away within a few hours. The leather RAM uses holds it “new smell” pretty long which is nice!
Another nice video, JB. I ordered my 2017 RAM 3500 SRW Mega Cab Limited with the auto leveling and I love it. Once you add significant weight onto the rear of the truck, when switched on it comes on in delay to merely take the truck back to level. I'm not so sure they help non-towing ride quality. In 2017, the 2500 came with coil rear suspension which offers a much nicer ride. My 3500 has the super stiff heavy duty leaf springs which bounce you around quite a bit when non-towing. After one month of that, I swapped to the KYB 5100-B shocks on all four corners which really dampened the bumpiness quite well. I also run tire pressure at 65 psi in front and 55 psi in rear while not towing to help smooth the ride and it helps, too. I go back to 80 psi all around when towing, and the ride is super smooth. My 5th wheel is a 2018 full profile drop frame 39 foot Montana, so I had to have the 3500 for extra capacity. Gotta watch those combined weights and capacities for safety.
Nice! Yea the air suspension is really nice if you don’t want after market setups. I do like the fact when you add load the truck senses it and adjust. I bet you can’t even feel the Montana back there! Thanks for sharing 👍🏾
How do you Not Overheat and destroy your tires running them that low.
I bet if you dismount one of the front ones after a few thousands miles and look at the inside it's probably not pretty.
70-80+° outside run down the highway at 60-70mph for 5-10 miles. Pull over and I bet you probably can't hold your hand on the front tires because they are so hot.
That is why a lot of people have trailer tire problems also. They don't read the side walls and run the manufacturer suggested PSI in their tires.
I have the air system on my one ton not the greatest system if you drive gravel roads a lot 2 years old how to replace compressor because of dust
That’s very interesting. I decided to skip it on my build sheet and still feel pretty neutral about the system. I strongly recommend it for 3/4 tons but for 1 tons it’s a toss up. Thanks for the info!
@@JB_WhoWork well 2500 is a complete air ride only in rear. 3500 just has air assist. 1 less left spring. So it makes and even bigger difference in the 3500 that still uses leafs... interesting u vote for 1 and not the other
That's strange because my Jeep Grande Cherokee Overland had the 4 corner air suspension and I never had a problem with it in the 3 years I owned it. That thing saw more dirt than pavement.
@@XploreAz 90% of my driving is gravel 2 hours every day the dust is what wreck the compressor it is a great system when it works right
@@mestons sorry to hear. The system definitely makes for a good ride, especially when towing.
Beautiful truck! I traded a 2015 Jeep GC with the 5.7 Hemi and air suspension for a 2018 Ford F-150. I also looked at the Ram. Loved the truck. Just didn’t get as good a deal from Ram as I did my Ford dealer. VERY happy with my truck but that Ram with the KY Derby edition (I’m from Louisville originally 😊) is a damn nice truck. I miss having an air suspension. It was nice in an off-road SUV but has SO much usefulness for towing stuff this 2500 will be hooking up to.
I was just there! The JGC w/ a HEMI is in a class of its own! I’ve never towed with one but would love to see how it levels out.
Very surprised Ford won the price battle but then again, RAM has really stepped up their game and they don’t have to give them away anymore which is good for resale. I need to do some videos on Ford 1/2 tons because I’ve yet to crack a door on one. Thanks for sharing👍🏾
JB Reviews You bet! And as for the pricing, I think it really just came down to the specific dealerships I went to. My Ford dealer really stepped up and gave me a great deal. Ram wasn’t anywhere close (it’s a lease...but very likely going to keep it) which really bummed me out because I was really looking at going with Ram since I had the Jeep and was very happy with that. Anyway, great vid. Thanks for the reply. Hope you have a good weekend! Looking forward to more vids (especially if you take a look at the F150). 😊 And hope you had fun in Louisville! 😜
Michael Godsey what was the payment differences? Thanks for watching and supporting the channel and stay tuned for the Ford vid!
JB Reviews If I remember correctly, the difference was about $120/month. Same $$ down with the JGC as a trade.
I always get along bed when you’re towing anything
Absolutely 💯% True 👍
And I know that this is a video for the Truck Suspension. I hope others understand this and don't try to towing a trailer that large with a truck that size 😂🤣
3500 DRW is the smallest I would ever use for a Triple Suspension anything!!
What happens if a bag burst? Are they’re built in joust bumpers or do you lose all suspension
I’m not sure but RAM for sure has some type of fail safe for the suspension
You could see the factory jounce bumpers to the left of the bags in the video.
Thanks!
A lot of people rag on air suspension. I personally also like it. And we travel a lot
What size rv? I just bought a 2500 gas
@@kcblack3621 mpg 3100bh 36 1/2 long
@@kcblack3621 great truck
Love your detail and different timing and angels. I have a 2019 1500 thinking of going up to the 2500 or 3500 with HO. Hoping for an 8 speed soon. Had a F250 before missing the diesel.
Thanks! Yea once you go diesel it’s hard to forget that massive tq and diesel sound. I have enjoyed driving my 1500 but nothing can replace my 3500 HO!
If you go the 3500 HO route get the AISIN (dip stick on the drivers side). I haven’t heard good things about the 68rfe.
I am looking to buy a limited edition should I get with that air suspension?With the air suspension is the ride much better?
If you’re looking at a 2500 I would definitely get it!
Ride is a lot softer!
@@JB_WhoWork Thank so much.
2021 3500 DRW rear air suspension.
Empty Rides like a 1ton Lumber Truck.
About the same as my 09 Jeep JKU Rubicon so I'm used to it 😂😉
How much does the camper weigh? I loose 3 1/4 inches with mine on an 07 2500 w/o air . Looking for a new one cant decide if I want 2500 or 3500. Your videos are very informative. So could you get weight of camper so I could compare to my weight of mine. Thanks
My pin weight is 2600#’s and total trailer weight is 12500#’s. I would skip 2500 and go straight to 3500 because you will run out of payload. This truck in the video is not “legally” capable of towing this RV but I wanted to use it to show the air suspension features and capabilities. Thanks for watching!
@@JB_WhoWork Thank you so much. I am a fan of the Limited mega cab. Now to decided dually or not.. I've never owned a dually but I drive big trucks for a living. How does the duallies handle in snow? If you know. We dont get alot but occasionally we get some. Thanks so much
No problem! I’ve personally have never driven one in snow but I’m sure it’s going to get traction better than a SRW. A dually will do a better job at keeping you within your GVWR especially if you want a high trim PKG. I’m about 700#’s away and my trailer is pretty light for pin weight. Thanks for sharing!
The Mega Cab is not going to be a convenient option if you want to tow a 5th wheel. The box is short and you have to have one of the Junk Sliding hitches to make turning tight possible.
Long/standard box for 5th wheel is the best option 👌 👍
@@jamesglenn520 Depends on the trailer. A lot of the newer stuff have angled noses so that's not too much of a problem. You'll just have to check the trailer you want or have and see if a slider is needed.
Hey JB! Do you have any videos or suggestions on how to correct 5th Wheel dragging on the back? I have the Montana 21 377FL towing with a 2017 Ram 3500 dually. I have bags installed on the truck but the rear of this trailer is too low. Thanks in advance for any suggestions or direction.
Can you flip the leaf springs? I mentioned this on my review of that rig and apparently I was actually right for once lol!
Man, I will watch that video again! You were definitely the one that introduced us to this floor plan! We were so excited I must have missed that part! Thank you for the response and all your videos!
Contact Keystone to see if there is another resolution, I’m sure others have expressed this so maybe they can help in some way. Thanks and good luck!
Is your trailer towing Flat??
If it's high in the front your hitch is to tall.
You should have Minimal Rake on your trailer.
If you're flat now the only solution is to flip the axels and raise the hitch in the truck.
Hey, great info. I'm a rookie on air suspension... And maybe you covered this and I missed it. Does GMC recommend a certain airbag system? And, airbags are used in combination with the existing leaf springs, they don't replace the leafs? Is that correct? Thank you for any input! I'm going to start following your channel. Take care.
Thanks, you can go with any of the airbag manufactures you want. I’m sure there is a lot that will fit for GMC and it will not replace the leaf springs. Thanks for the sub 👍🏾
If you have not installed bags yet I would suggest Firestone. And install them Individually!! Don't run right and left airlines together.
You realize you moving with the camera makes it hard to see it move?
As always great video man. That truck looks sick in front of that trailer. The air bags are cool for sure, but you know how I feel about them. Not that I am against them, just in my case they are a moot point. I am all about payload capacity. If you leave an 80 percent margin under max payload you will be fine, but that just me. I don't think anyone should operate at max capacity at any time. Air bags are a very nice feature, don't get me wrong, I am just not sold on them yet.
Thanks! The biggest benefit to me is if I want a truck that is turn key from the factory without having to go aftermarket for anything then the system would be added. I too am not sold on the system for the 3500’s only because the ride is somewhat better but not noticeably better. Also the system has very little adjustments. Maybe in the future as time goes they will continue to make the system better and offer more height levels.
@@JB_WhoWork Looking at getting a 3500 Ram this summer depending on the microprocessor shortage. But looking at the brochures and the website, it should be the same air suspension system as on the 3/4 ton, no difference that they've said.
Tell me, that truck is legally overloaded, right? My 2018 Ram 2500 4x4 Limited Cummins is right on the edge as far as cargo capacity just hauling my 30 foot, supposedly half ton towable travel trailer. I'm talking legal capacities as per the manufactures rating. I didn't believe it either. Cat scale and also a very detailed weigh of each wheel separately, truck hitched and unhitched to weigh individually. Waste tanks empty fresh water full as per the organization that conducts the test. They want you to be ready to boondock. I almost never run with more than 20 gals of fresh water. Trailer loaded weighs 8,000 lbs. there is NO possibility of shifting weight rearward. I do have the factory air suspension. Run very well outfitted, tools up to 3/4 drive for a few things, I could change out a leaf spring on the side of the road if I had to for instance. Spares for everything that can and WILL go wrong while interstate traveling by RV. My rig fears no grade up or down even when overweight. I want to move up to something like the fifth wheel in this video but it seems like it will take a one ton which I don't want to do. You don't ever want to be surrounded by lawyers in a deposition explaining your overloaded rig, don't ask me how i know, Lol! Love my Tungsten Edition Cummins powered Ram.
This truck is over capacity but I wanted to show the air suspension and how it works. I tow this with my 2019 RAM 3500 so I have enough payload 👍🏾
@@JB_WhoWork thanks JB, love you bro! Hey what do you think about towing in "alternate trailer height"? 1,100 lbs of tongue weight on my 2018 Ram 2500 four by. That mode seems to level things just right including the attitude of the trailer.
I personally think a leveled truck tows the best so I would always use the alt trailer height.
@@JB_WhoWork thanks
I usually complain about you driving on my grass, but I do have a real suggestion. You may have measured before and after at the wheel well to see if it adjusts to the proper height when towing a heavy load. I always believed that the air suspension was as much for drivers coming at you at night, so you don't blind them, as well as your ride.
That is one of the benefits for it if your towing something heavy on the tongue. My truck rides about level and I find my headlights to be too high so I think oncoming is going to get some glare from the headlights unless you adjust down manually. Thanks for sharing and I promise🤞to stay off your grass 😎!
Did you pull your trailer with this 2500 airbag truck?
I did not sense it’s brand new
anyone have any experience with this feature using a truck camper?
I’m surprised you didn’t know that already. That’s why tractor trailers work. That’s why I asked you why you didn’t get it on your truck.
Didn’t know what?
Great video. Liked the multi speed part.
Thanks! It was hard to really see it in normal speed so though this might help to see how much it adjusts sense I can never remember my tape measure.
Good demonstration!
Thanks man! Yea I was pressed for time but it turned out well!
How heavy is your trailer loaded?
11600#’s at this time I believe
Great review brah 👍Wow! My next order truck will have air suspension. I think I'm in da Market now.
Should've did an test drive into Baltimore roads for any bounce 🤣🤣
Thanks man! We need to pick up the C8 corvette Z06 and do some launches!
@@JB_WhoWork most definitely 💪👍🤙
Does air suspension increase payload capacity?
Great question, and no it doesn’t. GVWR increases payload!
@@JB_WhoWork I think the added weight actually decreases it.
It’s probably a wash since the coils get removed and the bags and tank aren’t super heavy
@@JB_WhoWork great point regarding being a wash. Kudos for participating in the follow-up discussion, it just gained you a subscriber!
@DeRiddler Thanks bro
If buddy could stand still it would have been a great video
I had to pee
I have this on mine, I don't think it's worth it at all. Especially considering it kills all potential for leveling/lift kits.
I have it and love it
If you are using a Truck for it's intended purpose you don't want to Lift it anyway.
Now if you own a Pickup to daily drive and take to the Mall you can lift it all you want 😂🤣
Nice truck. I have a 17’ crew cab shirt bed. I put aftermarket bags on mine. And it helps. I’m thinking about trading for a one ton single wheel long bed with the aisin. Was looking at the fords but it’s hard for me to get away from the Cummins
Dumb question here but if you aren’t towing anything will you still have a nice ride quality with the air suspension. I’m thinking about getting the air suspension for light towing. But more for the ride quality
That’s actually a great question, the air suspension rides better than the coil sprung suspension. Towing is vastly improved as well 👍🏾
Squatting because it’s a 2500 probably overloaded with that camper
My 2006 toyota sequoia limited with rear air suspension worked exactly the same way,
they all do it with rear air suspension ,
what's your point!!!
I’m in the market for a limited mega cab with the high output, but I want to know when will they offer the panoramic roof instead of that little sunroof? I want that thing loaded with marker lights, auxiliary buttons, level 1 package, heated/cooled seats, 6’4 bed, tool box delete, premium L.E.D. Light package, the works! I want this thing to tickle my balls while I truck down the road! I’m searching America for my truck, what can your guy Shel, do for me? Best price, quick completion of the order and giving me exactly what I want?
Soldierboy1986 hit me up! m.shelton@centurymtairy.com
Yo. Ik you like personally know you. I havent seen you since church. Are you still in the same area. Ill be comming. Back home soon hopefully your still going to the same church. If you dont remeber me my dads thomas he used to work with the cameras in the church in the mornings.
What’s up bro! I know who this is! How is everything?
@@JB_WhoWork im good man idk how you popped up on my feed but you are out here!!! Great content btw. Hope you and the family are doing well. Keep up the good work.
jarvis handy haha yea you are the second person to spot me! Yea all good here, how is the service treating you?
@@JB_WhoWork Army is Army. Thats all i gotta say lol. But im starting part time army now converting to state police. So ill be heading back home soon thank god.
jarvis handy amen! Good job man and stay safe! Proud of you 💪🏾!!!
What do you mean "air suspension?" Do you mean "Airbags?" Air suspension is only on the Ram 1500 and it's on all four corners. What you are dealing with on the HD truck is "Air bags" bro.
JB is right, it's Auto-Leveling Rear Air Suspension for 2500-3500 by Mopar.
Hey FYI 👋 It says (RAM AIR SUSPENSION) on the back window of my week old 3500 CC DRW 4×4 TRUCK!!
So your argument about what it is called is Wrong 😂🤣
Now what You Think it should be called is just Your Opinion not the Manufacturers 👍👌
Jb great video as always. I am currently installing a Carli lift on my 2019 2500 limited with air suspension. Kits are available for these trucks. Will post a video soon. Also Ram called today 2020 HD’s will open for orders on the 5th. Check out my channel for update..
A black 2500 short bed is the last thing I would use to tell a fifth wheel
I would never buy a black vehicle way too hot in the summer way too hard to take care of. Do you really want to spend all your time washing your vehicle and drying it taken care of it or is this time just to go have fun and not screw around with your vehicle I would be way more interested in buying a white vehicle
Man you are a Dip💩!! Lol
If you are so worried about how clean your ride is you should stick to eating Crayons instead of driving.
And believe me a White vehicle shows the dirt just as bad!!
I know this because I own an 09 Black JKU Rubicon and a 10 White JKU Sport.
Have owned both since they were New and never been through a car wash only at home by hand 👍
So you really don't have a clue what you are BABBLING ABOUT 🥴🤤🤪👌
I like the black color the best
Looks amazing! If I had a garage, I would have bought black. I wash my truck once a month but black requires more TLC.
JB Reviews you are absolutely right. I have owned a lot of black vehicles I could not resist. There was a black one exactly like my truck on the lot when I bought mine a couple of weeks ago. I chose the delmonico red for cleaning reasons and I liked the color to. It still shows dirt but not like black would. I don’t want to work that hard anymore.
Colonel1Bravo 😂 amen to that! Love the red!
Are you supposed to wash Black vehicles more often than others?
I guess I better get out there my Black 09 JKU Rubicon has not had any soap or a brush on it since about this time last year 🤔
I have sprayed it off with the hose a few times though!! Even if I wash it it doesn't run better/faster or more MPG!! LOL 😆 🤣
Never buy a factory air suspension they are garbage you will be in the shop all the time never buy 2502 week in the back fifth wheels belong to one tons and 1 ton Dooley’s
This isn’t my truck
Dude, what the fuck? Use punctuation. The garbage you spewed in this comment is practically unintelligible.
@@anthonyandriano No💩!! 2502?? Dooley??
This guy just needs to stick to eating Crayons and banging his head on the wall. Lol