Airlift 1000 vs. Firestone Ride Rite - Honda Pilot

Groundpound4200 · 01-13-2012, 01:17 PM

Hey guys, I searched and couldn't find any topics comparing these two products but what are your opinions on them? I bought a set of Ride Rites and they leak really bad. I'm wondering if I just got a bad set since they're leaking from where the fitting is molded into the bag. Should I switch to the Airlift 1000s? I have a LOT of weight in the back of my Pilot from stereo gear and I also like to tow my snowmobile but right now it rides like crap.

jcantanixon · 01-13-2012, 08:40 PM

Almost 4 years leak free with the Airlift 1000 kit. I know Firestone makes good bags, but don't have any experience with the Ride Rites.

cofetym · 01-13-2012, 10:39 PM

Groundpound4200 here you go:Airlift 1000 installation on 06 pilot 2wd

Groundpound4200 · 01-14-2012, 03:06 PM

To me it seems like the Airlifts would be less prone to leaking by their air line connection system coming right out of the bag. I like how the Firestones fill out the entire spring though. I wish SD truck springs would get back to me and let me know if they will cover my issue. I've only had these things installed for about a month and the longest they held air was about a day

1YESfan · 01-14-2012, 11:26 PM

That sucks. A co-worker told me that years ago when he had an airbag suspension caddy, he replaced the original bags with some meant for much bigger, heavier duty vehicles and never had a problem again.

Rower4VT · 01-15-2012, 07:48 PM

Just wanted to throw my two-cents in. I had an AirLift kit with an on-board compressor on a 2001 Pathfinder for years, and loved it. I honestly rarely used the compressor, but when I needed it, it sure was nice to have. Now on my MDX I went with Monroe Load-Adjusting Shocks. They have made a huge difference, and I am very glad I went with them. Had a few hundred pounds of crap hanging out an open tailgate one day, and the back fenders still had at least as much space between the tires and the fender as the front tires did. The loaded, and un-loaded handling is definitely much better. The installation was super easy as well. I put together a thread when I installed them:
Monroe Load-Adjusting Shocks - Installed

Groundpound4200 · 01-16-2012, 10:51 AM

I'm having trouble finding a kit for the Pilot ^^^ They look a lot more reliable than an air bag though.

Rower4VT · 01-16-2012, 12:40 PM

I used the Monroe model number 58645 (which I believe is for the Odyssey), but it fits perfectly.

I would tend to agree that these would seem to be more reliable. I like the idea of installing them and not having to worry about air leaking out or anything. Even if the shock "blows" someday, you do not lose the weight carrying ability like you would immediately with an airspring/airbag blowout. That being said, I never had a problem with my AirLift kit, and never noticed any worrisome wear on the airbag or associated parts. AirLift is a good company and I'm sure they would last a long time.

cofetym · 01-16-2012, 02:21 PM

How long have you had the Ride Rites ?

Groundpound4200 · 01-17-2012, 12:39 PM

I've had them installed for about a month. I ordered them in November but I didn't get to installing them for a few weeks. I just really don't like their air fitting design. They are those push-connect air fittings and unless they're on there perfect they're going to leak. Even if you get them situated so they seal up, what happens when they get full of slush and snow? I could see that pulling the air lines right out of these especially because they hang straight down out of the lower control arm. Maybe a 90 elbow in there would help but it creates another spot for a potential leak. I'm at a loss... I'm going to look into those shocks and springs

Groundpound4200 · 01-17-2012, 12:52 PM

So I looked up those Monroe shocks and they say they fit 99-04 Odyssey. I didn't see anything for the Pilot or MDX. I know the Ride-Rites I got had instructions for an Odyssey as well but there were different models #s for anything 04 and older and 05 and up. I would really like to go the Monroe route if I can figure out if they fit...

cofetym · 01-17-2012, 01:35 PM

Contact Ride Rite and check on the warranty. Bet they'll replace them for you !

Rower4vt mentioned that the coil shocks where for the Oddy only but fit his
MDX. I'm sure they should fit yours also.

Groundpound4200 · 01-17-2012, 03:31 PM

07 Pilot
Compressed length 11.5"
Extended length 16.875"
Travel 5.375"
Loop & Bushing sleeve mount 1/2" sleeve ID x 1 5/8" OAL

Monroe Load Adjust Shocks for Odyssey
Compressed length 11.36"
Extended length 17.32"
Travel 5.960"
Loop & Bushing sleeve mount 1/2" sleeve ID x 1 1/2" sleeve OAL

I'm concerned there will be too much play in the mount with the different sized sleeves. I'm pretty sure I can get the Ride Rites warrantied but I don't want to fight constant leaks and it's a pain to work on them by myself without a hoist. Maybe I just got a bad set.

Groundpound4200 · 01-18-2012, 01:10 PM

*Update*

SD Truck springs just called me and said that they will be shipping out 2 new Firestone Ride Rite airbags! They said to just toss the old ones in the garbage and enjoy the new ones. I would definitely recommend them for any spring needs. I just hope these work a little better than the last ones.

Rower4VT · 01-19-2012, 07:20 PM

Did not have any play in the mounts with the Monroes when I installed them. Checked them recently and they are still snug with no indication of undo wear or other issues.

01-13-2012, 01:17 PM	#1 (permalink)
Groundpound4200 Registered User Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Mankato, MN Posts: 61 Feedback Score: 0 reviews	Airlift 1000 vs. Firestone Ride Rite Hey guys, I searched and couldn't find any topics comparing these two products but what are your opinions on them? I bought a set of Ride Rites and they leak really bad. I'm wondering if I just got a bad set since they're leaking from where the fitting is molded into the bag. Should I switch to the Airlift 1000s? I have a LOT of weight in the back of my Pilot from stereo gear and I also like to tow my snowmobile but right now it rides like crap. __________________ 2007 Pilot EX-L on chrome 20"s 2 RD D9 amps (5000+ watts @ 12v) 2 RD Heavyweights 15"s 4 AGM batteries (Deka & Northstar) 270A DC Power alternator 3 runs of 1/0 gauge wire Alpine PXE-H660 OEM integration processor Curt hitch, vent visors, 50% tint on fronts

01-13-2012, 08:40 PM	#2 (permalink)
jcantanixon Registered User Join Date: May 2005 Location: SoCal Posts: 916 Feedback Score: 0 reviews	Almost 4 years leak free with the Airlift 1000 kit. I know Firestone makes good bags, but don't have any experience with the Ride Rites. __________________ Current: 2008 4WD EX-L NAV - OEM Tow Package - OEM Running Boards - Sirius conversion using OEM headunit and antenna - Vizualogic A-1250 Dual DVD Headrests - RGB converter for DVD on NAV screen - Hitch-Haul - Air Lift 1000 - USA-Spec PA15-HON2 - DEI 452T Auto Locks - Thule Crossroads and Cargo Box - Michelin Latitudes Old: 2005 EX-L NAV

01-13-2012, 10:39 PM	#3 (permalink)
cofetym Registered User Join Date: Jul 2010 Location: Arizona Posts: 775 Feedback Score: 0 reviews	Groundpound4200 here you go:Airlift 1000 installation on 06 pilot 2wd __________________ ____________ 2005 EX-L 4wd WEATHERTECH* Floor liners, cargo liner, bug/wind deflector (Direct Order). CURTTrailer hitch /harness/Transmission and Power steering coolers (etrailer). OEM Crossbars and rear splash guard (HandA). OEM* Foglights (Ebay/yourkeylessremote). DEI * 452t Automatic Door Lock Modification (Sonixelectronics). MAXXIMAM09300 Side Marker LED light Modification (Partssystems). SEARS16009 Oil Catch Can Mod (Sears). Coffee ! Is The Planet Shaking or Is It Just Me ?

01-14-2012, 03:06 PM	#4 (permalink)
Groundpound4200 Registered User Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Mankato, MN Posts: 61 Feedback Score: 0 reviews	To me it seems like the Airlifts would be less prone to leaking by their air line connection system coming right out of the bag. I like how the Firestones fill out the entire spring though. I wish SD truck springs would get back to me and let me know if they will cover my issue. I've only had these things installed for about a month and the longest they held air was about a day __________________ 2007 Pilot EX-L on chrome 20"s 2 RD D9 amps (5000+ watts @ 12v) 2 RD Heavyweights 15"s 4 AGM batteries (Deka & Northstar) 270A DC Power alternator 3 runs of 1/0 gauge wire Alpine PXE-H660 OEM integration processor Curt hitch, vent visors, 50% tint on fronts

01-14-2012, 11:26 PM	#5 (permalink)
1YESfan Registered User Join Date: Oct 2011 Location: Northern Virginia Posts: 275 Feedback Score: 0 reviews	That sucks. A co-worker told me that years ago when he had an airbag suspension caddy, he replaced the original bags with some meant for much bigger, heavier duty vehicles and never had a problem again. __________________ Rob 2011 w.d.p. Touring 4x4, DeepWater Edition(it has a propeller on the back ;-) )

01-15-2012, 07:48 PM	#6 (permalink)
Rower4VT Registered User Join Date: May 2011 Location: NE Posts: 23 Feedback Score: 0 reviews	Just wanted to throw my two-cents in. I had an AirLift kit with an on-board compressor on a 2001 Pathfinder for years, and loved it. I honestly rarely used the compressor, but when I needed it, it sure was nice to have. Now on my MDX I went with Monroe Load-Adjusting Shocks. They have made a huge difference, and I am very glad I went with them. Had a few hundred pounds of crap hanging out an open tailgate one day, and the back fenders still had at least as much space between the tires and the fender as the front tires did. The loaded, and un-loaded handling is definitely much better. The installation was super easy as well. I put together a thread when I installed them: Monroe Load-Adjusting Shocks - Installed __________________ '06 Acura MDX '97 Acura RL

01-16-2012, 10:51 AM	#7 (permalink)
Groundpound4200 Registered User Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Mankato, MN Posts: 61 Feedback Score: 0 reviews	I'm having trouble finding a kit for the Pilot ^^^ They look a lot more reliable than an air bag though. __________________ 2007 Pilot EX-L on chrome 20"s 2 RD D9 amps (5000+ watts @ 12v) 2 RD Heavyweights 15"s 4 AGM batteries (Deka & Northstar) 270A DC Power alternator 3 runs of 1/0 gauge wire Alpine PXE-H660 OEM integration processor Curt hitch, vent visors, 50% tint on fronts

01-16-2012, 12:40 PM	#8 (permalink)
Rower4VT Registered User Join Date: May 2011 Location: NE Posts: 23 Feedback Score: 0 reviews	I used the Monroe model number 58645 (which I believe is for the Odyssey), but it fits perfectly. I would tend to agree that these would seem to be more reliable. I like the idea of installing them and not having to worry about air leaking out or anything. Even if the shock "blows" someday, you do not lose the weight carrying ability like you would immediately with an airspring/airbag blowout. That being said, I never had a problem with my AirLift kit, and never noticed any worrisome wear on the airbag or associated parts. AirLift is a good company and I'm sure they would last a long time. __________________ '06 Acura MDX '97 Acura RL

01-16-2012, 02:21 PM	#9 (permalink)
cofetym Registered User Join Date: Jul 2010 Location: Arizona Posts: 775 Feedback Score: 0 reviews	How long have you had the Ride Rites ? __________________ ____________ 2005 EX-L 4wd WEATHERTECH* Floor liners, cargo liner, bug/wind deflector (Direct Order). CURTTrailer hitch /harness/Transmission and Power steering coolers (etrailer). OEM Crossbars and rear splash guard (HandA). OEM* Foglights (Ebay/yourkeylessremote). DEI * 452t Automatic Door Lock Modification (Sonixelectronics). MAXXIMAM09300 Side Marker LED light Modification (Partssystems). SEARS16009 Oil Catch Can Mod (Sears). Coffee ! Is The Planet Shaking or Is It Just Me ?

01-17-2012, 12:39 PM	#10 (permalink)
Groundpound4200 Registered User Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Mankato, MN Posts: 61 Feedback Score: 0 reviews	I've had them installed for about a month. I ordered them in November but I didn't get to installing them for a few weeks. I just really don't like their air fitting design. They are those push-connect air fittings and unless they're on there perfect they're going to leak. Even if you get them situated so they seal up, what happens when they get full of slush and snow? I could see that pulling the air lines right out of these especially because they hang straight down out of the lower control arm. Maybe a 90 elbow in there would help but it creates another spot for a potential leak. I'm at a loss... I'm going to look into those shocks and springs __________________ 2007 Pilot EX-L on chrome 20"s 2 RD D9 amps (5000+ watts @ 12v) 2 RD Heavyweights 15"s 4 AGM batteries (Deka & Northstar) 270A DC Power alternator 3 runs of 1/0 gauge wire Alpine PXE-H660 OEM integration processor Curt hitch, vent visors, 50% tint on fronts

01-17-2012, 12:52 PM	#11 (permalink)
Groundpound4200 Registered User Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Mankato, MN Posts: 61 Feedback Score: 0 reviews	So I looked up those Monroe shocks and they say they fit 99-04 Odyssey. I didn't see anything for the Pilot or MDX. I know the Ride-Rites I got had instructions for an Odyssey as well but there were different models #s for anything 04 and older and 05 and up. I would really like to go the Monroe route if I can figure out if they fit... __________________ 2007 Pilot EX-L on chrome 20"s 2 RD D9 amps (5000+ watts @ 12v) 2 RD Heavyweights 15"s 4 AGM batteries (Deka & Northstar) 270A DC Power alternator 3 runs of 1/0 gauge wire Alpine PXE-H660 OEM integration processor Curt hitch, vent visors, 50% tint on fronts

01-17-2012, 01:35 PM	#12 (permalink)
cofetym Registered User Join Date: Jul 2010 Location: Arizona Posts: 775 Feedback Score: 0 reviews	Contact Ride Rite and check on the warranty. Bet they'll replace them for you ! Rower4vt mentioned that the coil shocks where for the Oddy only but fit his MDX. I'm sure they should fit yours also. __________________ ____________ 2005 EX-L 4wd WEATHERTECH* Floor liners, cargo liner, bug/wind deflector (Direct Order). CURTTrailer hitch /harness/Transmission and Power steering coolers (etrailer). OEM Crossbars and rear splash guard (HandA). OEM* Foglights (Ebay/yourkeylessremote). DEI * 452t Automatic Door Lock Modification (Sonixelectronics). MAXXIMAM09300 Side Marker LED light Modification (Partssystems). SEARS16009 Oil Catch Can Mod (Sears). Coffee ! Is The Planet Shaking or Is It Just Me ? Last edited by cofetym; 01-17-2012 at 01:40 PM.

01-17-2012, 03:31 PM	#13 (permalink)
Groundpound4200 Registered User Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Mankato, MN Posts: 61 Feedback Score: 0 reviews	07 Pilot Compressed length 11.5" Extended length 16.875" Travel 5.375" Loop & Bushing sleeve mount 1/2" sleeve ID x 1 5/8" OAL Monroe Load Adjust Shocks for Odyssey Compressed length 11.36" Extended length 17.32" Travel 5.960" Loop & Bushing sleeve mount 1/2" sleeve ID x 1 1/2" sleeve OAL I'm concerned there will be too much play in the mount with the different sized sleeves. I'm pretty sure I can get the Ride Rites warrantied but I don't want to fight constant leaks and it's a pain to work on them by myself without a hoist. Maybe I just got a bad set. __________________ 2007 Pilot EX-L on chrome 20"s 2 RD D9 amps (5000+ watts @ 12v) 2 RD Heavyweights 15"s 4 AGM batteries (Deka & Northstar) 270A DC Power alternator 3 runs of 1/0 gauge wire Alpine PXE-H660 OEM integration processor Curt hitch, vent visors, 50% tint on fronts

01-18-2012, 01:10 PM	#14 (permalink)
Groundpound4200 Registered User Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Mankato, MN Posts: 61 Feedback Score: 0 reviews	Update SD Truck springs just called me and said that they will be shipping out 2 new Firestone Ride Rite airbags! They said to just toss the old ones in the garbage and enjoy the new ones. I would definitely recommend them for any spring needs. I just hope these work a little better than the last ones. __________________ 2007 Pilot EX-L on chrome 20"s 2 RD D9 amps (5000+ watts @ 12v) 2 RD Heavyweights 15"s 4 AGM batteries (Deka & Northstar) 270A DC Power alternator 3 runs of 1/0 gauge wire Alpine PXE-H660 OEM integration processor Curt hitch, vent visors, 50% tint on fronts

01-19-2012, 07:20 PM	#15 (permalink)
Rower4VT Registered User Join Date: May 2011 Location: NE Posts: 23 Feedback Score: 0 reviews	Did not have any play in the mounts with the Monroes when I installed them. Checked them recently and they are still snug with no indication of undo wear or other issues. __________________ '06 Acura MDX '97 Acura RL

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