Has anyone used these update kits? If so how was the ride afected?
http://www.mcicoach.com/Parts-Service-Support/coachGuard/mc9AirSuspensionRetrofitKit.htm
We purchased our rolling lobe bags from Mohawk Industries. Our bus had block-off plates on the rear when we purchased it, so I cannot compare the rolling lobe bags to then OEM bags using the air beams, but I can tell you the rolling lobes were a huge improvement over the block-off plates. Jack
While I haven't used them, I've heard that the ride is minimally affected. Leaking air beams require this sort of repair. I'd install those kits in a skinny minute...but, I don't have air beams.
Unless you have the floor out of your bus, repairing the air
beams isn't really an option.
Do it! ;)
Best, JR
You know, about the time I think I have a handle on this bus thing,,,,,,,
What are block off plates? How do I know if I have them?
Thanks,
Bill
MCI-9
1983
Look at the top of the airbags. If you see an aluminum plate about 1/4" thick between the air bag and the airbeam, you have block-off plates. Also the air line from the leveling valve will be attached to this aluminum plate instead of the air beam. The block-off plate blocks off the air beam (which was probably leaking), so the only air volume available for suspension cushioning is what is in the airbag, making a harsher ride. Jack
On many buses, the air beam was used since the double convolute air bag (looks like the Michelin man with only two bulges) is a very reactive air bag-meaning it is rougher riding. The air beam is simply a hollow steel rectangular beam that the tops of the two air bags on that side are open to-this creates a larger air volume that slows down the fast reaction of the double convolute air bag-hence a better ride.
By putting plates over the air bag holes in the air beams and installing rolling lobe air bags, you achieve the same results-good ride with actually better control. I have a similar design on my bus, except instead of the air beam, I have an aluminum can (about a foot in diameter and 10 inches high) that creates the extra air for a good ride. I kept them since it would have been a bit of redesign to use the rolling lobe. My bus rides as well as I want it too, and handles well (meaning it doesn't lean much on curves). Good Luck, TomC
Hi All;
While on the subject of air bags, can anybody tell
me if I can use rolling lobe bags with good air beams?
I think my beams are good. Have my doubts about
my bags though.
Thanks, Merle.
Merle, rolling lobe bags are sealed top and bottom by steel plates. Except of course for the air supply line at the top. Convoluted bags are open top and bottom. They mount on a fixed plate (part of the bus) at the bottom. They mount to the bottom of the air beam (at the top of the bag), where there is a large hole for the air to pass through from bag to air beam. The air supply line goes to the air beam. So I don't think rolling lobes could be used with air beams.
Hey everybody, This is Chris in Idaho just wondering if someone could explain the air beam repair i keep hearing about. I have looked at my air bags and think maybe i might need to replace a few of them when i get that far but the air beams i really have not looked at.what and where do i need to look on my mc-9? any advice on this would be helpfull. thanks Chris
So I don't think rolling lobes could be used with air beams
This is correct, but rolling lobe air bags can be installed on a bus with air beams. Their design allows installation and allows them to function properly, however, the air beams are only serving as a mounting point and not serving as an air chamber. Rolling lobe air bags and the OEM double convolute air bags/air beam operate on entirely different design principals, but both give a similar ride.
Chris,
The air beams are the steel "boxes" that the top of the air bags attach to. Air beam repair is very difficult unless the interior floor above the air beam is removed. The beams usually leak on top, where dirt and moisture accumulate and cause rust to form pinhole leaks in the top of the airbeam. This is why most people either use block-off plates (which give a harsher ride) or rolling lobe air bags. Our MC-8 had block-off plates om the rear air bags when we purchased it. We removed them and the OEM double convolute bags, then installed rolling lobe air bags. Jack