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Topic: IFS Airbag/Shock R&R (Read 271 times) previous topic - next topic

IFS Airbag/Shock R&R

Finally got around to replacing my 2001 U320 airbags and shocks, with much success! My particular coach is a IFS model so much of the great info on the forum doesn't cover this. Working on Chinooks for half my life it wasn't to hard to figure it out. Being an IFS, the front suspension being different then a str8 axle I had to figure out blocking for safety and airbag/shock removal. I used my large 12 ton support (2ea) jacks with 6x6 shoring on the upper frame. Fully raised the coach and then dumped the air onto the standard rear 12in square tubing and front jacks.


I tackled the rear most airbags/shocks first, they are definitely the easiest. Everyone has been posting up about special made tools, but I found using my 15mm&16mm (for air lines to bag and 90 degree elbow) 19mm for the three nuts on the airbags, which all were thin ratcheting wrenches worked excellent.


The two air tools from Harbor Freight are highly recommended, especially the 90 degree impact gun. This gun was easily able to fit on the most forward shocks where the room between the bulkhead and frame is tight.  (I'm assuming that on Non-IFS, the forward rear shocks are tight too) I used the larger 1in impact for lug nuts (33mm)for the front rims, as on IFS you need the rim off to better access the airbags.

New airbags and Koni reds! A little paint on the rotor edge/caliper to make it look nicer and keep rust down. Also greased up the fittings (just not the brake zerts, learned that lesson!)
This job, though a little tough, can be done with ease. Having the correct tools is a must. I wrote this for those with the IFS, but the basics can be applied for those with a solid front axle as well. The rear bags are Conti and the front two are Automann, of course the shocks are Koni gold (rear) and reds (front) Hope this write up helps those about to tackle this job. Self satisfaction is priceless.