Air Fittings ?

[289falconranchero]

I'm getting ready to start the install the air management setup in my '65 Ranchero this weekend. Used E2 system (less fittings), 5 gal tank, 2 Viair
480c compressors. I'll be running either 3/8" or 1/2" line between the tank and the valves and the same from the valves to the bags.

I have a question concerning the difference between the push-to-connect and compression air line fittings. Is one more reliable/leak-free than the other? What are the advantages of either (other than the quick connection convenience of push to connect fittings)?

Thanks

[britt@ridetech.com]

If this were my car I'd use 1/4" or 3/8" line and fittings for a couple of reasons:
1-the E2 was designed to work with 1/4" and 3/8" valves and lines
2-The E2 is an air only system. The larger the lines, valves and fittings, the more difficult it is for the control system to place the car at ride height. (think of it this way. . .if you manually press an inflate or deflate button as fast as you can, that's as fast as the ECU can open a valve. So if you hit the button, and the car moves an inch, it will be VERY difficult to attain ride height. . .which is the ultimate goal.) Level sensors will help the problem, but it all comes down to how much air flows through the valves in a very short time.
3-1/2 inch line is almost impossible to route (think of trying to bend a plastic tube the size of a garden hose!). 3/8" line is slightly easier. 1/4" line is a breeze.

We use ONLY DOT approved push-to-connect fittings. These are the same fittings used in the air brakes on tractor/trailer rigs. How many have you seen broken down on the side of the road with a brake failure?

[289falconranchero]

Thanks Britt. You answered my question, and then some.

The car is used only for car shows and cruising. So, I don't need, or want, the bags to fill too fast.

Routing isn't going to be much of an issue, but I do understand trying to "route a garden hose". I don't want to make the install any harder than it needs to be. Knowing the purpose of my car, would you recommend the use of 1/4" line over 3/8" (ease of install aside)? Would you recommend running the 3/8" line from the tank to the valves and the smaller line from the valves to the bags, or won't it make a difference?

[britt@ridetech]

We use 1/4" line on almost everything we build. The only vehicles that have 3/8" lines are the Dually's that pull our trailers to shows, and large cars like my 1966 Lincoln Continental Convertible (but it weighs 5500lbs!).

Line Size to Air Springs:
The line size is really dependent upon your valves. If you have 1/4" valves (RidePro) you won't see much speed increase if you use 3/8" line. No matter what it's the smallest orifice in the system that restricts flow. So if you have air springs with a 1/4" NPT hole, or 1/4" valves, you might as well use 1/4" line as an increase in line size won't do anything but make the install more difficult.

Line Size to Air Springs:
This is a little different. As all 4 air springs pull air from the tank through the valves you can use two supplies to gain a little performance. The smallest orifice deal still holds true, but you can gain a little by running two smaller lines.
Normally we just run a single 1/4" line from the tank to the valves as we normally use a 3 gallon tank.

[289falconranchero]

Line Size to Air Springs:
This is a little different. As all 4 air springs pull air from the tank through the valves you can use two supplies to gain a little performance. The smallest orifice deal still holds true, but you can gain a little by running two smaller lines.
Normally we just run a single 1/4" line from the tank to the valves as we normally use a 3 gallon tank.

I'm a little confused by the last paragraph. Eitherway, sounds like 1/4" line is the way to go. (which would explain why the shockwaves and rear bags have 1/4" line fittings) I was just a little thrown by the 1/2" ports on the tank I have. Thanks for the help Britt. I appreciate it.

[britt@ridetech.com]

The last paragraph:

If you have two available ports on your tank, the valves have two supply ports. Normally we only use one supply, and block the second. However, you will see a slight increase in flow if you use both supply lines.

[289falconranchero]

10-4. Thanks Britt

[289falconranchero]

Another question: What do you recommend for a good thread seal? Is the thread sealant that's already on the fittings sufficient or would you recommend the use of a secondary thread sealant to ensure a foolproof seal?

[britt@ridetech.com]

The fittings have an anti-galling agent on them. You must use teflon tape.