Opinions-Experience with converting from rear Air to Coil on 3rd Gen

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Moving this thread over from 3rd Generation section hoping to get more input over here. Just really trying to decide which Coil to go with as there seems to be a few. Arnott, Rancho (although I dont want the lift), Monroe, Strutmaster etc.

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Guys as per my other thread here I am having issues with the stock rear air suspension on my 09 Expy Max.

I've been reading about different coil conversion options.

Can anyone give me any real life feedback on how the ride compares (stiff for 3rd row passengers?) and how the ride height compares? Do the coils site the rear down a little more level?

I want something that is solid (not the cheap replacement options that aren't recommended for the extra weight of the Max or EL) but I don't need it to ride like a 3/4 ton.

I do some towing in the summer with a camper.

Not looking to lift the truck as its a family daily driver so stock right height is fine for me.

Thanks in advance.
 
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I am reading a lot about the coil conversions (even the good brands) being very soft for towing? Anyone gone through the swap and done any towing?

Thanks
 
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More reading (I know its a curse sometimes... ) only to find that a lot of the aftermarket coil struts are not recommended for the EL (or MAX).

Can someone chime in on what they used in their EL or MAX for aftermarket coil struts and how the experience was with towing and overall ride height?


Thanks
 
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So in speaking to mfg of these replacement strut assemblies for the rear I am finding that very few recommend (or warranty) their products on an EL/Max. Even some that state they apply to the Max on the website are not for a Max if you call them and discuss spring rates between the two trucks (regular and Max). American Air and Strutmasters were the two I found that did make versions for EL and they look to both be good products, just not in the budget right now.

I think I am going to find a set of stock rear struts from a non-air Max and bolt them in for now. At least that way I will know that I have the proper spring rate coils in the truck from Ford. Depending on the mileage on the shocks I may upgrade the shocks to bilsteins etc.
 

Doug Taylor

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I am reading a lot about the coil conversions (even the good brands) being very soft for towing?

If you tow heavier trailers (tongue weight say over 500 lbs.) or often carry a lot in the back - stick with air springs. Air springs will provide auto-leveling for a better, safer, ride. Note: When there is too much weight on the back your headlights will point up too.
 
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