Air Supply

Page 1 - Thunderbird Airbag Suspension
Page 2 - Air Supply
Page 3 - Front Suspension
Page 4 - Rear Suspension
Page 5 - More Bagged Birds



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Compressors and Air Tanks



Here lies the heart of the air system. The rear bumper has been removed, and replaced with the equipment shown above. Two Firestone 3 gallon air tanks are supplied by Two Thomas 315 compressors. Each compressor has been fitted with 3/8" air line, ran to a Water seperator before air enters the tank. The other ends of the tanks supply air to the valves, and are T'd together, so airspace and pressure is shared. All air lines plumbed into the vehicle use pre-existing grommets.

Pressure Switch and Relay


I made this wiring diagram to show the correct way to run the components together. The Pressure switch will turn the compressors on when the PSI falls below 120, and shuts off at 145. Using the relay will help the pressure switch last longer. At least 10 gague wire should be used for one compressor, two or more would work best with 8 gague directly to the battery, as each compressor draws 17 amps.

SMC Solenoid Valves



Two valves are used per wheel. One allows the air to enter the bag, and the other lets it out. The most efficient design would be to run the valves together, and the shortest distance from the airbag itself. I may upgrade from the 10mm valves to 15mm later, for a much quicker system.
Gauges and Switches


I have made a control panel using ABS Plastic, with a Carbon Fiber sheet to accent and match the rest of the Dash kit. The Gauges are dual needle, so all four corners can be monitored. Four switches allow independant control of each wheel.

Parts and Prices

  • 8x SMC 3/8" Valves $45 ea - $360
  • Various SMC, Parker and Legris Airline Fittings $5 ea - $220
  • 40ft 3/8" OD Airbrake Hose $25
  • 40ft 1/4" OD Airbrake Hose $20
  • 2x 3 Gallon Firestone Air Tanks $40 ea - $80
  • 2x 2500 Firestone Airbags $75 ea - $150
  • 2x Shockwave Unit - SKW1000 $800
  • 25ft 10ga. Wire $5
  • 40a Borg Warner Relay $15
  • 40a Fuse $2
  • Custom Mounts and Brackets $$$
  • 2x White Face Gauges $20 ea - $40
  • 2x Thomas 315 Compressors $75 ea - $150
  • 4x Momentary Switches $3 ea - $12
  • Compressor Override Switch $3
  • Carbon Fiber Gauge Pod / Switch Panel $10
  • 145 PSI Pressure Switch $20


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