Replacing GMC Airbags

[buddydawg]

I finally found the correct cord for my block heater and it came in last week.  I installed it yesterday and it makes a huge difference for starting the engine.  Plug it in for an hour or so and one hit of the start button will fire it right up.  No smoking - No excessive cranking!! It will save untold wear and tear on the starter without a doubt.  After I aired up the bus and inflated the tires I noticed an airleak coming from the back.  After a quick inspection I found it to be coming from the rear curbside airbag.  I haven't verified if it is the bag or a line but I feel it is going to be the bag.  I have had my eye on this particular one because it has always looked to me like it was older than all of the others.  So it looks like I have my next project already decided for me.    I am going to verify the leak this weekend when I have time to block it up and get in close for an inspection.  Does anyone have any tips/suggestions on changing these out?  Should I just replace the one or do both on that side etc...

[Utahclaimjumper]

The GMC rears are such a bitch of a job you should do both while there.>>>Dan

[gus]

I agree with Dan, it is too much work to do only one.

While you're at it install plates to save doing it later.

If you install plates you will need longer bolts.

You need new bolts anyway, half of them break when removing because they are small and usually very rusted. If you have old type bags those bolts won't fit new bags anyway.

Call Ed at Jefferson Bus in OKC for excellent service and good prices.

[Old4103]

Brandon,

Call Mr. Bowen at Choo Choo Garage.... he may have a bunch of NOS airbags up in the attic.

Dallas

[buddydawg]

I have been keeping an eye on this particular bag because it looks like all of the others were much newer.  I had assumed that it had been bypassed due to the tight location.  This will be the first airbag I have had to replace so I'm sure it will be a challenge.  I will replace both on that side and take a close look at the others as well.

[Utahclaimjumper]

If it aint broke dont fix it,these things look bad for a long time before needing repairs, I would not touch them unless proven leakers.>>>Dan

[scanzel]

My suggestion is to change them all out together, then you know how old they all are and condition. I blew an air bag going into an RV park a few years back, scared the heck out of everyone including me, I was sitting in the drivers seat while my wife was registering us. This happened on a Friday afternoon 90 miles from home. No front suspension after the blow out, had to stay an extra day and bring it up to a truck repair facility, left it there and had them change all 8 of them. At least now I know I have 8 good ones.

[buddydawg]

Here is the plan so far.  I am going to replace the two bags on the curb side, if that goes well I may consider doing the other side so everything will be new.  While I am working in the area I am going to do some PM on the rear end, bearings, etc...  My bus is old and this gives me good reason and opportunity to do it.  The question I have what is the best/safest way to block the bus up so I can pull both sets of rear duals off?  That way I can leave it like that for a few weeks while I do the work.