air compressor

[gator67]

I have often wanted to use the built in compressor when we were parked but I was concerned that the air bags would fill up and affect the leveling and jacks. If I set the switch in the bay to activate the compressor, then start the engine, will that keep the air bags from filling? Is it okay to use the compressor when parked and all set up?

[gator67]

I have often wanted to use the built in compressor when we were parked but I was concerned that the air bags would fill up and affect the leveling and jacks. If I set the switch in the bay to activate the compressor, then start the engine, will that keep the air bags from filling? Is it okay to use the compressor when parked and all set up?

[Ted III]

I use the compressor whenever I want and it has no affect on the jacks. It will pump up the air bags. When you are finished just release the air pressure from the air bags, etc. I am quite curious what switch you are referring to?

[gator67]

In the rearmost compartment on the passenger side is the "Air Suspension Drain". When the yellow lever on top points to the right, the air goes to the air bags (see picture below).




When the lever is turned towards the back, (see below) the air is routed to the compressor connection.

[VAGABONDMAN]

Jerry,

When you say "switch", we think about an electrical switch, versus a valve commonly used for air or water - hence, the confusion aboout your original post. Your photos are worth 1000 words!

[Ted III]

Frank, thank you, I was aware of the valves. I had a bit of a problem with the switch part. Thanks for clearing it up.

Ted

[gator67]

I was a software programmer for 36 years... switches, valves... they're hardware

I love this forum... I learn so much!

[Ted III]

Frank, if gator67 was a computer programmer we will never understand him!

[rmmpe]

That particular valve does not re-direct air in any way. It's merely an on-off ball valve that controls the flow to the air-tap fitting and valved drain port. Regardless of what position it's in, air will go to the air suspension members.

Opening the lower valve allows air to escape through the drain outlet, hopefully blowing out any moisture in the system.
The air tap is normally shut; only opening when there is a male fitting inserted to it.

[Rick Coleman]

I always thought the engine had to be running to operate the air compressor. Is that not the case?

[EngineerMike]

Rick- Yes. Air compressor is gear driven off the motor; it sits just below the injection pump on the PS, just ahead of the rearmost end of the engine.

[Old Scout]

Early-on I too was frustrated that you couldnt use the engine compressor without inflating the air bags--so pack a hand pump or a 12v/120v compressor if you dont like inflating/dumping the bags. Anyway, it never fails to surprise me just how much "urban legend" is out there concerning the ops of our coaches. Understandable--given the poor documentation we get at delivery and I swear, the dealers' willingness to say anything just to get us off the lot and down the road. Once again, our forum comes to the rescue.