Load-leveler troubles...

[95scpa]

I had trouble holding air in the rear struts, so I replaced the rear struts(non-electric valving)and the compressor(old one died trying to keep air in system)
I still can't get it to do right...It pumps up, pulling air in,
then bleeds out this port(I'm assuming is the inlet port) on the compressor.
Now I fear the compressor is worn out,,,it's taking forever to pump up, and tries re-pumping about every 5 minutes!
Used soapy water to look for leaks, so far the compressor is the only place with any leaks, and it has more than one SMALL leak...

Any ideas???????????

 

[95scpa]

Well, I went to the auto parts store today and picked up a common "vacuum check valve" and connected it to the open port on the air compressor for the suspension by a short length of vacuum hose. It seems to be working beautifully! so far anyways...it allows the pump to pull in air, but when it shuts off, it will NOT allow a reverse flow of air from the port...
Now to see if I can increase the pressure output, or sealing of the compressor's piston ring...

I'm assuming noone else has a problem with their rear air suspension?....(no replies)

 

[95scpa]

Oh, does anyone know if a rebuild kit or parts are available, or substitutable to repair or rebuild these compressors?(suspension air compressor NOT A/C)

 

[troGNman]

I have not encountered any problems yet with my system.

My wife drives a 1994 LeSabre w/ the Gran Touring suspension and it works flawlessly, for now. What the future may bring as hoses get brittle and pump gets older, who knows?

The pump is a common item as it is used in most Cadillacs and even the Buick Roadmonsters, so I would think parts stores would at least stock a rebuilt unit.

I see a lot of the older Lincoln Continentals and Marks VIII's that have their pumps/shocks go bad and they are literally scraping the ground when they drive.

Good Luck with the Park Ave.

 

[95scpa]

No, no rebuilt or new units in the aftermarket as yet...but dealers do carry new pumps for $429! here locally....$75 salvage.
Good luck with yours, also the exact replacement struts are $579 EACH! plus labor...I had several quotes for the "Electronically valved gas over air(rear) struts from $1198 to $1475..! They have 3 wire weatherpack connectors in the center of the piston stud.
But I settled for the $60ea NON-Electronic gas over air, which still allows the Load Leveler to operate normally., it just won't tune the rear suspension for a particular road or driving condition.