View Full Version : Air shocks: schrader valve individual adapter


vincevs
Apr 3rd, 09, 08:44 AM
I picked up a set up munroe max-air shocks for the '67 so I can lift up the rear end ~1/2 inch for summer as a quick fix before I buy new rear mono-leafs etc. Now I run into the problem because the kit only comes with airlines to a T schrader valve connection. I want to run fill each shock individually directly on the shock.

Is there an adapter to screw into the air shock fitting with a schrader valve so that I can hook the air compressor directly to each individual shock?

I called my local dealer and munroe directly they both said it can be done but they don't know where to get the parts. I have heard of some home made applications for this and was wondering if there is something out of the box that I could buy or fittings to put together so I don't have to run air lines into my truck etc. This is why I should have just done it right the first time. :sad: Anyway, this is where I am at now and I don't want the tubes running under my car so the other option would be to remove the airlines once they are full.

Is there a way to remove the airline system once the shock is at the right pressure without the air escaping?

DjD
Apr 3rd, 09, 09:17 AM
You may think you want to get rid of the lines but you'll be fighting getting the shocks even if you do. You'll also be laying on your back under the car every other week adding air to them and re-leveling the car, air shocks are not a fill it and forget it item. The hose that connects to the shock stays pressurized so if you try to remove it you will loose the pressure.

I have air shocks on the Nova (came with them when I got the car) I was able to re-route the lines so you can't see them and mounted the valve for easy to access without drilling. If this is just something to get you by until you are ready for the spring replacement and new shocks I recomend not going to too much trouble and just install the T as they are designed.

If you are really set on seperate valves I did a search on ebay and found this hose kit with 2 valves. I doubt you can hook the valves directly to the shocks but bet you can shorten each hose up real short!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Air-shock-hose-kit-for-Gabriel-air-shocks-Two-valves_W0QQitemZ120401044411QQcmdZViewItemQQptZMot ors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories?hash=item120401044 411&_trksid=p4506.c0.m245&_trkparms=72%3A1171%7C65%3A12%7C39%3A1%7C240%3A131 8

vincevs
Apr 3rd, 09, 09:41 AM
Yeah I saw that too... might even work. I wrote him to see if he has any other applications. The tire style fitting is called a schrader valve. Does anyone know the name of the fitting style on the air shock? Might help in searching for an adapter.

I'm looking for a part similar to the part in the top right... but this is for a motorbike and has a balance fitting...
http://www.phatperformanceparts.com/photos/AFB-1.jpg
http://www.phatperformanceparts.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=AFB-1

Someone designed it because here is a link to a patent!
http://www.freepatentsonline.com/6120010.html

Where did you mount your T valve with no drilling?

vincevs
Apr 3rd, 09, 03:07 PM
I spoke with Munroe today and they tell me that the fitting on the air shock is a 7/16 - 20 pitch thread.

Lurchhammer
Apr 4th, 09, 04:56 AM
Those shocks won't last 6 months when using them to lift the rear of your car (at least they didn't for me).

It puts to much stress on the air bag to fight the leaf springs, and if you have any horsepower at all, when the leaf springs bend during hard acceleration, the shocks also take a beating.

I've had two sets of those on my '67 and finally decided to replace the leaf springs instead. My 5-leafs were shot, because they immediately lifted the car.

I put a set of Monroe overload shocks (gas shocks with an outer coil helper spring) that were made for an extra load in the trunk or a small trailer. These were recommended with Caltrac bars by a racer I know. I can get you the part number if interested.

Just trying to help you not waste your time and money. If you want to go with air-shocks, then look at the Air-Ride sytems. There's an inexpensive sytem that has STRONG airbags that mount to the frame rail.

vincevs
Apr 6th, 09, 08:17 AM
Yeah, makes sense, I hope I don't even need them for 6 months... I just needed something to get me into summer before I replace / rearch the monoleafs. Please post your part number for those searching this thread in the future.

DjD
Apr 6th, 09, 09:01 AM
The set I have on the Nova (Hi-Jackers) has been on it for years and the '86 El Camino I had I think came with them from the factory. The only problem with either was they need to be checked and filled every couple weeks or so. I don't recomend air shocks for ride quality or handling but if you don't over inflate them you shouldn't have problems, at least I didn't...

Arch Stanton
Apr 6th, 09, 12:28 PM
I had 'em on my '69 El Camino. It needed them since the previous owner put too wide a rim/tire on the back and wanted the old school muscle look.

It worked, but I did have one shock blow out, and since it was connected to the "t" fitting the other one went down too. Fenders rubbed on the tire scuffing the tires up. Had to drive real slow home and wait until the local parts store opened to get a new set. Had that Elco for 5+ years as a daily driver that way, but they were always a worry if they let go. Ride was terrible, but as a younger guy then, didn't really care... Trust me, they will eventually let go. I was lucky, one shock let go and one line let go another time in 5 years. I think that was lucky considering I had to keep a lot of pressure in them 24/7/365.

I don't recommend them. It's a band aid type of fix to try to clear too wide a rim/tire.

I understand what you're trying to do, but if you can take them back and try a different way, I recommend it. You'll prob be fine for 6 months though.