air bags suspension--82 FC35

[Scott Forman]

I also have an 82 FC35, and I had some fun chasing air suspension
gremlins back in January. I shared several messages here on the
subject, might be helpful if you can find them.

I do not think your air bags are bad. There are four on the front
axle, and for them to be the culprit, all four would have to be
completely blown, not a common occurance. I suspect a problem with
your leveling valve.

If you crawl under the coach, near the center of the front axle, you
will see a contraption with two air lines attached and an arm
extending off it that moves up and down. There should be a steel rod
that connects this movable arm to the body. This is the leveling
valve. If is filled with a gel solution and controls how much air is
added to or removed from the front air bags based on the body height
communicated to the valve through the rod and movable arm. When the
arm is down, air is added, when it's up, it vents.

If you locate the valve but the rod is disconnected or borken, there
is your problem. Reconnect and give it a try. If it is connected,
you may need to replace the valve. The gel inside the valves
sometimes hardens with age and won't allow the internal workings of
the valve to function properly anymore. The valves are available
from Blue Bird and the front one can be changed out in about 10
minutes.

I replaced all three leveling valves on my air system, and it works
exactly as designed. Seven of my eight air bags appear to be
originals.

Scott Forman
82 FC35RB
Memphis

--- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "williams1595"
wrote:
>
> Hi Guys, I have recently joined your group and have been scouring
> the database and emails for information regarding anything to do
> with my 1982 FCSB 35 that I purchased a few years ago. I had
> intentions on taking a LONG TRIP across country, but soon found
that
> my coach had several issues which I have no prior experience in
> dealing with.It only has approx. 68,000 mi. and has a updated
> interior and paint, but needs new air bags...I think...front end
> will not pump up,rear will....makes for a not too comfortable/safe
> ride. I found the posting for air bags part #'s, but there are 2
> different #'s given for front bags....W01-358-8992 and rear W01-358-
> 9039. Does anyone know what the correct part #'s are for my coach.
> Also, I live in Knoxville,Tn. and would like to know if anyone
knows
> where I can get these air bags resonably priced and if there is
> someone you would recommend to install them. I will do myself if it
> is not to complicated.
>
> I have really learned alot already, just reading you guys
> emails...lots of tidbits and good information. I look forward to
> some day getting my BIRD "OUT ON THE ROAD" and meeting you at a
> WANDERLODGE RALLY somewhere. I have "ALOT" of other
> questions/problems that I would love to ask, but one thing at a
time!
>
> I would greatly appreciate any help or advice!
>
> Thank GOD for a website like this one!
>
> Dr. Bill's 1982 FC35
> Knoxville,Tn.
>