Chevy & GMC Vans

99 AWD Astro LS

Hello all,

I would like to install a set of air shocks on my Astro for light load leveling. I have used Gabriel Hi-Jackers in the past on a mini truck (for loading up, not slamming) and they seem to work well but I only had them on the truck for about a year when I sold it.

So may question is....

Is one better than the other? The Max-Airs vs Hi-jackers. Both cost about the same, both are instock at my local auto parts stores.

Any input?

Thank you for your support

I used a set of Max-airs on the SPB...in fact they are still on it. They work great.

I also have Max-Airs on the Smilie van. I'm satisfied. They do exactly what I needed them to do.

Thank you for the input. I guess Im going to go with the Max-Airs since two "senior" vansmen have them.

Thanks again,

Jesse

I'm no senior van man, but I have the Maxairs and like them.

I have Gabriel Hi-jackers on my rear to prevent it from sagging, when loaded....

I think that they are both pretty much the same in quality, and I would recommend running a single line and airvalve for each side. This prevents the air travelling from one to the other when the axle is on an incline ( so I heard ) for better handling.

I'm no senior van man.

But "Rileysowner" you are! You've been around as long as "Smiliesafari" and "LiftedAWDAstro" have.

SoCalli V8, Im thinking of running two lines. When I had my air-shocks in my 81 VW rabbit pick-up, I never had any issues with air moving between the shocks. I dont know, I'll come up with something.

Thanks again guys,

Jesse
guinness drinking smilie! Who doesn't love it!!

I only ran one line with the fill behind the gas fill door. I have had no issue with that so far, but I figured if I ever do it isn't like changing it is all that difficult, just a little time.

Based on Monroe's online "shock selector", air shocks are only recommended for heavy loading (greater than 400 lbs of tongue weight towing).
The SensaTrac shocks are recommended for mild to moderate loading. They are basically HD shocks with an external spring to help maintain ride height.
Just passing on the info from their site.....

Based on pass experience with air shocks, I can't recommend any of them.
Don't like the way they feel, or the way they fail.