Our Elite Kit: Transform your El Camino’s suspension for enhanced driving comfort and a striking stance. Discover why our Elite Kit stands out in our collection for exceptional performance, making it the ultimate upgrade for your classic ride.”
“Here’s a comprehensive list of every component included with the Elite Kit to ensure you have everything you need for EZ installation and optimal performance:”
- EZ AIRRIDE 2500# Air Springs: 8” usable stroke with a 600 psi burst rating. Features steel braided waistbands.
- Bolt-on powder-coated air spring brackets with all necessary hardware.
- 496ss Compressor: 200 psi / 100% duty cycle 2.19 CFM with a sound-stabilizer spring kit.
- Large Capacity 6.0 Gal Air Tank: Equipped with all necessary fittings.
- Electric Tank Drain Valve: Comes with lead/power wires and necessary fittings.
- 3/8” Aluminum Manifolds: Comes with all necessary brass DOT fittings, slow-flow mufflers for controlled drop speed, and plug-in wire harnesses to connect to controller device.
- Gauge Panel: Includes two dual-needle glass gauges with LED bulbs & power wires and DOT brass fittings – the panels come in a black coated finish, and include a built-in tank drain button with power leads.
- Front Shock Relocation Package: Shocks, upper frame towers and lower stainless steel studs.
- 7-Button Switch Box: Comes with a 16-foot extension and lock-out feature.
- 3/8” DOT Black Nylon Air Hose: 60 feet in length.
- 1/4” DOT Black Nylon Air Hose: 60 feet in length.
- DOT Brass Fittings: Includes PTC swivel bag fittings, all brass DOT tank fittings, and a 165on / 200off psi switch with power leads.
- EZ AIR Essentials: 20’ 8 gauge UL Certified OFC tinned copper power wire, 30/40 amp transparent relay with LED light indicator, Plug-in relay wire harness featuring 12” heavy-duty OFC tinned copper wire leads, EZ Airtite 360 Sealant and 8 gauge 3/8″ ID copper lugs with a complimentary “Hammer Down Crimper Tool” and a Tube Cutter.
- Spare Air Kit/Roadside Relief Kit:™ Featuring our exclusive 20′ air coil hose which includes a 6” dual-head tire inflator, quick connect coupler, tank fitting and a tire Schrader.
- “The most comprehensive kits on the market!”
“Here’s an introduction to the Elite kit! Discover more below about the additional features and installation information that make it the perfect choice for your El Camino. The Elite Kit distinguishes itself with many key features that set it apart as the superior choice for enhancing your suspension with an AIRRIDE system.
The Elite Kit is a four-corner control system, often referred to as FBSS (front, back, side, side). While it may seem like a flashy addition intended for show, it’s essential to understand that this system goes beyond merely impressing onlookers at stoplights by bouncing side to side (stoplight shenanigans). It serves a more practical purpose: Precise four-corner control is vital for enhancing stability at each corner of your classic vehicle while minimizing body roll. Whether you’re accelerating up a freeway on-ramp at 60 mph, navigating painful potholes on a backcountry road, or accommodating extra passenger weight, having refined corner control is crucial for achieving optimal performance and combating the dreaded “Chevy Leans.”
The Elite Kit includes a sleek handheld switch box: For effortless manual suspension adjustments, complimented by our exclusive dual-needle air gauge panel for precise air pressure monitoring in the bags. Tailored for DIY enthusiasts, this kit eliminates the need for complicated components like self-leveling levelers, sensors, computers, complex wiring and calibration. We refer to this straightforward control feature as “Driver Seat Calibration,” which allows you to calibrate and adjust your AIRRIDE suspension based solely on your visual assessment with the touch of your thumb – much like monitoring your speed with a speedometer and controlling it with your gas pedal. The Elite gauge operates similarly: just press the rocker switch with your thumb to modify your vehicles height while observing the gauge needles to reach your desired pressure and ride height. Enjoy effortless adjustability with just the touch of a switch!
The Elite dual-gauge panel, paired with the sleek handheld switch box, provides complete control over your vehicle’s suspension. Whether you need instant adjustability to cautiously back out of your driveway without dragging your headers or to tackle those painful potholes on back roads, this system has you covered. Lay it low for the next car event or adjust it to your desired pressure for a more dynamic ride quality. You’ll feel like you’re driving a brand-new car!
AND IF YOU’RE CURIOUS ABOUT THE LIFT SPEED: You can count on our Elite kits to respond smoothly, getting you up in less time than it takes to say “one thousand one!” The lift speed is so buttery smooth that it won’t jolt you out of your seat, or rattle your fillings; in fact, if you had a cup of coffee in your lap with no lid, it wouldn’t stir a ripple.
WHILE MANY OF US CRUISE OUR CLASSICS WITH YOUR FAVORITE CO-PILOT OR THE LITTLE ONES: Who will undoubtedly want to take charge of the switch box because it’s just fun!—the enjoyment can fade quickly if they hold down the drop button for too long. This can cause the front end to drop abruptly, resulting in the chassis thudding against the pavement. But there’s no need to worry—your pipes and oil pan are well protected! Our Elite manifolds feature EZ-flow brass slow-down exhaust mufflers, allowing you to effortlessly adjust the drop speed with a simple twist, just like turning down the volume on your stereo. Dial in your drop speed with ease, and enjoy smooth, controlled adjustments!
WHAT’S INCLUDED: Introducing our exclusive EZ AIRRIDE™ airbags & brackets, specially designed for all 1958-1964 X Frame Cars, Wagons & El Caminos. Our 2500 series airbags offer more stroke than traditional 2500 series airbags, compressing down to 2.8 inches and extending to 10.5 inches, providing useable stroke of nearly 8 inches. This increased stroke results in lower pressure within the bags, ultimately delivering a more dynamic ride quality. Whether you’re planning an LS swap, have a 454 big block engine, or want to fit 20″ rims on your ride, our airbags can handle it all. Each 2500 series airbag has a max load rating of 2,096 lbs. @ 100 psi. Whether you’re laying it on the lawn at a car show, preventing your pipes or oil pan from scraping along the driveway, or scrubbing the tires on turns due to extra passenger weight, the Elite Kit ensures optimal clearance and performance.
EASE OF INSTALLATION OF THE BAGS & BRACKETS: Simplify your air ride installation with our 1958-1964 X Frame brackets – the easiest setup you’ll find. Our airbag brackets feature powder-coated finishes to enhance durability and provide added protection. All necessary airbag/bracket hardware, including nuts, bolts, washers and the required 7/16″ all-thread is included. No need to break out the heavy-duty tools-just grab your socket set and drill and you’ll be good to go.
STARTING WITH THE REAR: Simply attach the lower bag bracket to your trailing arm and secure it to the factory e-brake hole. The upper bag bracket is just as straightforward; just attach it to the frame and secure the outer stem of the bag bracket to the factory bump stop using the supplied bolts – no drilling necessary. We’ve also simplified the process of running the air line by incorporating precision-cut mouse holes into the upper bag brackets. This design enables you to easily route the air line through the bag bracket itself, eliminating the need to drill additional holes in the frame for air line passage.
FRONT BRACKETS: The front lower bag plate effortlessly bolts onto the factory lower control arm by utilizing the two bump stop holes, once the factory bump stop is removed. If you have chrome-plated lower control arms and prefer not to drill the two outer plate holes at all, no drilling would be required for the complete bag and bracket assembly. The upper bag bracket mounts into the upper frame pocket and bolts into the existing shock mounting hole. And just like the rear upper bracket, we’ve simplified the process of running the air line by incorporating precision-cut mouse holes into the front upper bag bracket as well. This design enables you to easily route the air line through the bag bracket and down the X Frame to the tank, eliminating the need to drill additional holes in the frame for air line passage.
IF YOU’RE CONSIDERING FRONT AFTERMARKET TUBULAR CONTROL ARMS: Give us a call for quick advice. If you already have them, we will provide custom drop-in style brackets to fit seamlessly at no extra charge. Just let us know before placing your order.
FRONT SHOCK RELOCATION KIT: The X Frame front shock relocation kit is included in this package. It comes with shock absorbers, dust covers, and all necessary hardware. The kit also includes upper shock towers and lower stainless studs. The lower studs are designed to bolt effortlessly through the factory lower control arm. However, if you are using, or plan to use aftermarket tubular front arms, you’ll need to undertake some light fabrication to secure the lower shock stud to the arm. This would involve drilling a larger hole through the aftermarket arm and inserting a DOM tube of the correct size to support the stud, which is then welded in place. Another option is to fabricate tabs that can be welded onto the tubular arms to secure the stud. If you haven’t already purchased new flashy tubular arms, our recommendation is to refurbish your original arms by painting them and equipping them with new ball joints. This will simplify the process of securing the lower shock eyelet to the shock stud and save you a few hundred dollars, which can be allocated towards other visible and valuable enhancements. If your primary goal is to showcase your vehicle at an event like Barret Jackson to attract high bids, then yes, they will indeed look impressive to potential buyers when viewed by the chassis cam.
THE UPPER SHOCK TOWERS: These are designed to be affixed to the upper frame via welding. While our brackets come with placement holes that in theory, could be bolted, we advise filling these holes with welds for a much stronger bond and then smoothing them out for that professional finish. Suppose you do not have access to a welder. In this case, it is feasible to use the holes to bolt the bracket. However, if you choose this installation method, we recommend fully securing the shock towers with bolts running from the frontside to the backside of the frame. Just keep in mind that if you decide to bolt them on, there will be more holes in your iconic Impala’s frame than in a chunk of Swiss cheese.
CLOSING REMARKS ON FRONT SHOCK INSTALLATION: The advice provided is relevant to the majority of our vintage vehicles during the air suspension installation process. While there may be some variations among early classic vehicles produced in different factories, well-known models such as early Impalas, Chevelle’s, Monte Carlos, and Caprice Classics are generally classified as front steer vehicles. This means that the steering components are typically located in front of the wheel, near the core support, which simplifies the relocation of the upper shock tower and shock absorber outside the airbag facing towards the firewall. However, due to the diverse designs of vehicles manufactured over half a century ago, along with potential obstacles like brake lines and sway bars, we recommend consulting with a professional builder or a certified shop when planning to relocate your front shocks to ensure the best results.
REAR SHOCKS: Let’s talk about rear shocks – done! We don’t include them. Our rear bags and brackets are designed to utilize your original factory gas shock. When looking to install airbags onto your vehicle, many companies will try to persuade you to purchase their expensive, foxy looking shocks. All the while emphasizing the necessity of fancy dropped shocks for an air ride system. They’ll insist on the importance of these fancy shocks for an air ride system, but in reality, a high-quality airbag carries most of the suspension’s load. The shock is essentially a backup damper for sudden encounters with large potholes or when you’re zooming over train tracks at 45 mph. This is why we don’t include REAR SHOCKS in our air ride kits. Our advice is to go to your favorite auto parts store and ask for the most cost-effective, STOCK gas shock that fits your specific vehicle model. Put the $200-$300.00 we saved you back into your pocket.
IF YOUR REAR SHOCKS ARE SHOWING THEIR AGE: Resembling relics from Montgomery Ward, or if you have Hi Jacker air shocks installed back in the ’70s during someone’s high school years, it’s time for an upgrade. Replace them with budget-friendly STOCK gas shocks from your preferred auto supply store. If the shop assistant offers you a deal on heavy-duty branded shocks with million-mile warranties, politely decline! Investing in heavy-duty shocks can compromise the dynamic lift, drop, and, most importantly, the ride quality of your air ride system. Simply put, leading shock manufacturers design their products based on the original steel springs that equipped your classic car, not high-quality air bags.”
THE AIR TANK : Our exclusive tanks have a capacity of approximately 6 gallons. They measure just over 35″– in length, 7.25″- in diameter, and stand about 8.50″- tall. The front features two 1/2″ bungs for connecting to the manifolds, while each end of the tank has 3/8″ bungs for adapting to one or more compressors. Additionally, there are two 1/4″ bungs on the rear of the tank for the PSI switch and a quick connect for roadside air/train horn. Lastly, a 1/4″ bung on the bottom of the tank for easy drainage.
SPECIAL NOTE FOR EL CAMINO OWNERS: Our air tank measures approximately 35 inches in length with a capacity of just over 6 gallons. This larger tank may pose a challenge if you prefer not to mount it in the bed. However, if your El Camino has a compartment directly behind the cab with an access panel, this tank is ideal for fitting into that space. If your El Camino does not have that compartment or if it’s being used for other purposes, we also provide mini split tanks. These (2) 3-gallon air tanks measure just under 20 inches in length and can fit snugly under the bed within the frame rail, utilizing the cavernous underside of the El Camino effectively. There are numerous locations to install these 3-gallon tanks. To secure them properly, you may need to create a simple L-shaped bracket to fasten or bolt the tanks to your frame. Feel free to give us a quick call or email if you’d like to discuss the upgraded option of using two tanks.
THE AIR COMPRESSOR: Introducing our premium 496 SS compressor, featuring a maximum working pressure of 200 psi. This compressor offers a true 100% duty cycle at 200 psi, delivering 2.24 CFM. This work horse is the ideal choice for any onboard air ride system. Every 485c-SL pump includes a special set of “Sound Limiting Springs” to reduce noise and vibrations, ensuring a much more quiet operation. Each compressor is accompanied by a sleek 3/8″ NPT stainless steel braided leader hose featuring a built-in check valve for effortless connection to the air tank.
OUR 496 SS COMPRESSOR IS OIL-LESS: And features a built-in thermal overload protector incorporated to safeguard the compressor from overheating even in the most challenging operating conditions. With it being oil-less you can mount it in any direction or position. The only position we do not recommend is an upside-down mount, since heat tends to travel upward, and does not dissipate well in the motor housing.
INCLUDED WITH THE COMPRESSOR: An EZ AIRRIDE™ comprehensive wire care package, designed to provide everything you need for a successful installation and to ensure your compressor operates smoothly for years to come. This package includes a premium 20′ roll of our exclusive EZ AIRRIDE UL Certified 8-gauge OFC Tinned Copper wire, allowing you to connect the compressor in your trunk to the battery located up front. Also included is an integrated 40-amp inline Maxi-Fuse with a protective fuse holder, a 30/40-amp transparent relay w/LED accompanied by a color-coded plug-in relay harness for easy setup, and 8 gauge copper lugs. With these high-quality components, you can trust that your air ride compressor will deliver reliable and efficient performance for years ahead.
KEY FEATURES OF THE COMPRESSOR:
- Chrome body
- Built-in thermal overload protector
- Maximum pressure: 200 psi
- Duty cycle: 100% @ 100 psi, 2.19 CFM
- CFM: 2.19
- Maximum amp draw: 26 per compressor
- Fill rate (5 gallons): 0-200 psi 9 min. 45 sec. (± 15 sec.) ; Refill time: 165-200 psi = 2 minute 15 seconds
- Sound Stabilization built inside /Sound-Stabilizer Spring kit on the outside
- 3/8″ leader hose with built-in check valve
- 12v Magnetic Motor
- Metal Filter Housing
