66 GMC Buffalo 8V71 - Suspension Issue

[MightyQuinn]

We have recently purchased a 1966 GMC Buffalo.  We have a suspension problem on the passenger side.  It seems that both the front and rear airbags are not inflating on the passenger side.  Logic tells us that all 4 airbags can't be bad.  Does anyone have any words of wisdom for us?  We have the manual but we're not sure where to start looking.  Any help would be appreciated.  Thanks!

[Len Silva]

The front air bags have only one leveling valve and only control fore and aft height.  The rears have two valves and control left and right heights.  So, while it may appear that both front and rear are listing to one side, it is only the rear suspension that is controlling that.

Probably a bad leveling valve or simply a disconnected adjusting arm.

As always, observe all safety precautions before getting under and air suspension bus.

[MightyQuinn]

Thank you for that information, we will check that out asap.  Did not realize that the rear would control all of that.  At least we know where to start now, that definitely helps!  We appreciate you. 

[Runcutter]

Early in my bus career, I've brought in many buses with broken leveling valve links.  The tool was the broom we kept in every bus.  From either in front/behind the rear wheel, look in to see if you can locate the leveling valve, and the link to the axle.  If you can, reach in with the broom handle, and see if you can lift up on the leveling valve arm, itself.  If you can, and the bus raises, you've located the problem.

Since you have a maintenance manual, look at page 248 (if it's publication X-6814).  If you have a parts book (X-165010), see page 132 (Rear Air Suspension)

Just in case you're not familar, Len's comment about safety precautions is critical.  Unless you have a pit or a lift, do not get under the bus -- or reach your arm in over the tire -- or any place you (or a body part) can be trapped -- without appropriate measures and blocking.  One of our former members got trapped in the rear axle area of his 4108 - when the air bags came down.  He had to call his mother on the cellphone, to come out of the house -- and instructed her on how to start the bus so it could air up and he could crawl out.   Not all adventures end so well.  A few years ago, there was a posting here (or on the other board) - about someone fatally crushed by his bus (I seem to remember that it was a 4104). 

Arthur

[MightyQuinn]

Arthur...you are amazing!  Thank you so much for the information.  Definitely will play it safe, we promise.  Can't thank you enough for all of the pearls of wisdom.  It's nice to know a quick and easy troubleshooting method.  So happens that's exactly what we were looking for!

[gus]

I like that broom handle idea. My 4104 can be reached from outside even with the bag all the way down on one side. Haven't checked the other side.

However, I don't think my 4107 can be reached without the handle.