Running without ELC on air shocks=bad? on LeSabre
#1
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Running without ELC on air shocks=bad? on LeSabre
To add to my series of problems lately, my ELC control on my 04 LeSabre broke apart last night. The arm and bracket completely broke off the module attached to the car and was just dangling by the rod attaching it to the control arm.
So, I pulled the arm off, and disabled the air pump by pulling the relay in the rear fuse box.
Now, here'* my question. I know its a 04 LeSabre, but I'm running 05 GXP air shocks (as well as the rest of a GXP suspension). Is there any harm I'm doing by driving the car this way for awhile, until I can get a replacement ELC sensor? Or is running them without the pump enabled going to do bad things to it? I know with some air bag systems, you have to run a minimum pressure in the bags, or they have problems. I wasn't sure how this applies to the air struts?
I don't carry people in the rear, and I don't have a lot of weight in the trunk. Probably about 50lbs of tools and other stuff, aside from the usual spare/jack etc. So its not like I'm overloading the system at all. But will it be harmful to run like this (about 400 miles a week) for awhile?
Thanks!
So, I pulled the arm off, and disabled the air pump by pulling the relay in the rear fuse box.
Now, here'* my question. I know its a 04 LeSabre, but I'm running 05 GXP air shocks (as well as the rest of a GXP suspension). Is there any harm I'm doing by driving the car this way for awhile, until I can get a replacement ELC sensor? Or is running them without the pump enabled going to do bad things to it? I know with some air bag systems, you have to run a minimum pressure in the bags, or they have problems. I wasn't sure how this applies to the air struts?
I don't carry people in the rear, and I don't have a lot of weight in the trunk. Probably about 50lbs of tools and other stuff, aside from the usual spare/jack etc. So its not like I'm overloading the system at all. But will it be harmful to run like this (about 400 miles a week) for awhile?
Thanks!
#2
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the only ill effects you'll have is bad ride quality and your rear tires will wear heavy on the inside edges and may produce a chopping effect on them. best bet is to go to your local yard and pick up a new height sensor. you can usually get them for about $15-$25. if you have to remove it from the vehicle yourself it is very easy. 1 10mm bolt and the linkage
#4
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Certified Car Nut
Your shock seals won't hold up to the pounding and bottoming out. I ruined a pair on Lesabre that way and it didn't take very long. I wouldn't go another whole week.
#5
DINOSAURUS BOOSTUS
Expert Gearhead
If you are looking for low cost ways to make it work well. Monroe sells an airline kit. The 92-99'* used AK-29, not sure if you'd need a different one for length but that'* where I'd start off.
#6
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What if they don't leak? These shocks are practically new.
The pump never turns on except for the initial check when you start up. I've actually watched the shocks, and never see a height change when the car starts.
I'm really having issues finding a sensor. None of the local yards have any. Rock Auto wants $275 for their aftermarket version. GMpartsdirect has them listed for only about $130 though? How can an original delco MSRP for 225, and aftermarkets go for $50 more? I emailed them on the part, but haven't heard back yet.
How bad would it be if I put the relay back in, started the car, and pulled it after a second or so, just to get some air in there? The pump and rest of the system work fine. It leveled out last week when I loaded my dads rims and tires in the trunk, but thats the most weight its ever seen. I usually only drive to work and back, long trips. Pulling the relay may be a pain, but at least it would only have to be done 2x a day?
So far, no difference in ride quality, handling, or height. Driving at night, my fogs and HID lows are at the same point as they always were.
The pump never turns on except for the initial check when you start up. I've actually watched the shocks, and never see a height change when the car starts.
I'm really having issues finding a sensor. None of the local yards have any. Rock Auto wants $275 for their aftermarket version. GMpartsdirect has them listed for only about $130 though? How can an original delco MSRP for 225, and aftermarkets go for $50 more? I emailed them on the part, but haven't heard back yet.
How bad would it be if I put the relay back in, started the car, and pulled it after a second or so, just to get some air in there? The pump and rest of the system work fine. It leveled out last week when I loaded my dads rims and tires in the trunk, but thats the most weight its ever seen. I usually only drive to work and back, long trips. Pulling the relay may be a pain, but at least it would only have to be done 2x a day?
So far, no difference in ride quality, handling, or height. Driving at night, my fogs and HID lows are at the same point as they always were.
#8
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And you have a drawer of happiness? I want a drawer of happiness! I need one at work that I can just open on a bad day.
Right now, all I have is a door of happiness. The fridge. With a selection of alcohol, mint ice cream, and frozen pizzas! lol
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