I had Firestone Ride-Rite bags in my Chevy 1/2 ton and think I'm going to add a set to my 2500 HD after all. The firestones didn't have teh onboard controller, and I got by just fine. But, With all the oher cra that you guys here are making me add to this rig:rolleyes: I'm thinking about adding the controller. Not sure about Air Lift vs Firestone though.

One idea I like about the controller is to add a tank so I can inflate other stuff (like truck/trailer tires), use the air to blow dirt outta crap, etc.

Should I just spend the extra $$$ on this or not? Where do you guys buy from? I'll probably do the install myself this time.

I have the bags and used a small air tank off an old truck from the farm and a vanair air compressor. I have a cab air bag leveling valve mounted to the B&W gooseneck hitch and the diff to auto level the truck as soon as its loaded or unloaded. I think it is much better than having to mess with switches all the time. I used the system without the air compressor for awhile while I was waiting to install it. Had to keep the truck going to deliver seed to other farms and didn't have the time to put it on. I also took the lower leaf out the the rear springs to help get it to ride smoother. The bigger lower leaf of the 3500 SRW than the 2500 HD make for a rough ride.
Anyway I love it. Do it.

I have the controller on board, and for my uses, it works great. I like being able to inflate/deflate on the fly. I think I paid a grand for everything, installed.

I've had the firestone bags without and next install I'll get the compressor. It's not untill your load is on that you know how much air is needed and finding air at that point is a pain especially if the load is a 5th wheel trailer. Also the option to air up truck and trailer tires is very handy.

Depends on how much your load changes etc. If your running hot shot constant load changes etc, i would say its worth it. Or , if yoru like me and cheap put a valve stem near the bumper and just use the home air compressor to change the psi when needed. As for an on board system to use for other things, Itll be hard to find ac ompressor to efficiently do that unless you go w/a belt driven under the hood, those electric ones dont put out much unless you spend big$$$$$ and another alt.