Community Forums

Lindenberg · 11-28-2011, 12:26 AM

What is the expected useful life of Neway air suspension bags and the heater hose that runs the length of the motorhome? I've read much on tires and engine belts but nothing on these other critical rubber items.

Mekanic · 11-28-2011, 01:15 AM

if you are concerned about being staranded by the heater hose I can offer a you a way to limp on dwon the road in the event of a hose ruputure.

Install some valves either 2 or if you have a temp sensor in line of the hose at the engine you may have to have 3 valves.
THe extra one is so that you can still have a loop for the sensor.

rsflight · 11-28-2011, 05:54 AM

Our old motorhome is now at 23 years young. It still has the original heater hoses in it. I've considered changing them since it was 20, but its low on my list. I did replace the radiator hoses at 18 years.

Basically when the pressure containing rubber parts start showing cracks I replace them. I do check them every year. Tires & belts show cracking at a much earlier age. Tires replaced at 7-8 years, belts around 8-10 years.

Algoma · 11-28-2011, 07:46 AM

Replaced one of my air bags 2 years ago when it split. They are not very expensive so may be worth changing at 10-12 years, but have never seen a recommendation to do that. Firestone say their bags should outlast bushings, shocks etc. so you are probably OK.

AirLift · 11-28-2011, 10:49 AM

I doubt you will ever find an exact answer as there are many variables that could effect the life expectancy. Depending on how much psi is constantly in them, typical weather conditions, location on the suspension etc....

If they are not too expensive to replace from your manufacturer you may consider just replacing them. At the very least you may want to purchase a spare to take with you just in case.

If the bag doesn't have an abundance of cracking, or anything rubbing on it, it will most likely outlive most of the other components of your rig.

EngineerMike · 11-28-2011, 12:37 PM

IIWMI'd replace bags in pairs for a 4-bag coach. If one blows, replace it and its axle mate so the pair are a known match.

Likewise for the sake of peace of mind, I'll be replacing the front two round about the 10 year mark. Riding on the rear air bag bumpers wouldn't be fun, but riding on a front would make handling a pain, maybe dangerous if it blew at an inopportune time.
Probably overkill, but a lot is riding on those front bags.

BTW, Mike from Air-Lift: Thanks for your $.02, I put your P-30 front kit in my Trek years ago and it was nice to have the features the kit included. Much nicer than stock. I'm looking for a kit to replace leaf springs on my Nissan Frontier, I'll check out your website.