The Classic Plus Kit™ is designed to enhance your Impala with improved stability, dynamic driving performance, and, of course, a unique stance. It allows for effortless manual suspension adjustments, complemented by our exclusive dual-needle air gauge panel and paddle valve switches for precise air pressure monitoring in the bags. Tailored for DIY enthusiasts, this kit eliminates the need for complicated components, such as self-leveling levelers, sensors, computers, complex wiring, and calibration. We refer to the straightforward control feature as “driver’s seat calibration,” which allows you to adjust your air ride suspension based solely on your visual assessment. With the touch of your finger, you can adjust the pressure using the switches, much like monitoring your speed with a speedometer and controlling it with your gas pedal. The Classic Plus gauge panel operates similarly: simply adjust the paddle switch lever with your finger to modify your vehicle’s height while observing the gauge needles to reach your desired pressure and ride height. Enjoy effortless adjustability with just a touch of your finger.
With our four-corner control air ride gauge panel, you can easily customize the ride height of your vehicle at the front, rear, and both sides, allowing for adjustments to individual corners. Whether you want to lower your car to lay it on the lawn at the car show, accommodate added passenger weight, or raise it for a more dynamic cruising experience, this system offers exceptional flexibility. This high level of adjustability sets our air ride suspension apart, providing a ride tailored to your unique preferences and needs.
The Classic Plus Kit™ is a four-corner control system, often referred to as FBSS (front, back, side, side). While it may seem like a flashy addition meant for show, it’s important to understand that this system goes far beyond merely impressing onlookers with stoplight shenanigans, bouncing side to side. It serves a more practical purpose: The precise four-corner control enhances 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 country road, or accommodating extra passenger weight, refined corner control is crucial for achieving optimal performance and combating the dreaded “Chevy Leans,”
The Classic Plus Kit™ features user-friendly paddle switches that control airflow from the tank to the air bags and release air from the bags back through the exhaust port on the paddle switches, allowing for manual adjustments tailored to your specific cruising conditions. While there are numerous fittings to plumb behind the gauge for efficient connections, our Premium Elite Kits elevate convenience by bypassing all the plumbing and fittings at the gauge. With the Elite Kit, you avoid routing the airbag lines to the dash, eliminating the need for multiple connections behind the gauge.
WHATS 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 Classic Plus 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 bracket to your trailing arm and secure it to the factory E-brake hole. The upper bag bracket is as easy to install; just attach it to the frame and bolt the outer stem to the existing bump stop—no drilling necessary. Additionally, we’ve made it easier to run your airline with laser-cut mouse holes in the upper bracket, allowing you to pass your airline through without drilling extra holes in your frame.
FRONT BRACKETS: The front lower plate effortlessly bolts onto the factory lower control arm. By utilizing the two bump stop holes after removing the bump stop, you could complete the installation without any drilling. If you opt to bolt the outer two holes on the plate to the lower arm, then drilling becomes necessary. The upper bag bracket mounts into the upper frame pocket and bolts into the existing shock mount hole. So, in theory, if you had chrome-plated lower arms and preferred not to drill the outer plate holes at all, there would be no drilling needed, whatsoever, for the bags & brackets. If you’re using front aftermarket tubular control arms, just give us a heads up and we’ll provide custom drop-in style brackets to fit seamlessly at no extra charge.
The X-Frame Front Shock Kit: Is engineered to provide the essential dampening needed for all 1958–1964 X-Frame Cars, Station Wagons, and El Caminos with aftermarket air suspension. When you replace your factory coil springs with air bags, the original shock—which sits vertically inside the coil—is permanently removed. Because the new mounting position is on the side of the control arm rather than through the center, a factory-style shock cannot be reused. Our kit includes specialized shocks designed for this specific exterior angle, ensuring that when you zip over a set of railroad tracks or catch an unexpected pothole, the shock dampens the bounce instantly for a smooth, controlled ride.
Lower Mount: The stainless steel shock studs bolt directly to your factory lower control arms to secure the bottom of the shock. Since the 1958-1964 X-Frame is a front-steer vehicle, the shock will be positioned on the backside of the control arm (facing the firewall) for proper clearance.
Upper Mount: These shock towers are designed to be permanently fixed to the upper frame via welding. While our X-frame shock brackets include placement holes that—in theory—could be used for bolting, we strongly advise filling these holes with welds for a much stronger bond and a professional finish. While it is technically possible to bolt these brackets using the provided placement holes, we do not recommend it. A bolt-on installation requires drilling multiple holes through your iconic Impala frame, which can compromise the structural integrity and aesthetic of the chassis. For a permanent, high-strength bond and a show-quality finish, welding is the only industry-recommended method.
Aftermarket Tubular Control Arms: If your vehicle is equipped with aftermarket tubular lower control arms- or if you are planning to install them- please be aware that the lower shock stud installation will require additional fabrication. While the stainless steel studs are a direct bolt-on for factory stamped-steel arms, tubular arms lack the necessary flat mounting surface and internal support. Common Installation Methods for Tubular Arms would involve drilling a hole through the tubular arm and inserting a DOM (Drawn Over Mandrel) steel sleeve of the correct size to support the lower stud, which must then be welded in place. Alternatively, you can fabricate mounting tabs on the underside of the tubular arm to secure the shock stud.
Pro Tip – Consider Refurbishing Factory Arms: If you haven’t purchased aftermarket arms yet, we highly recommend refurbishing your original factory arms. A fresh coat of paint and new ball joints will provide a cleaner, simpler installation. This approach saves you from the extra labor of grinding off new powder coating and performing structural welding on a brand-new set of arms—potentially saving you hundreds of dollars in shop labor. However, if your primary goal is the “show factor,” those tubular arms will certainly look impressive to the admirers who happen to be lying on the ground looking under your vehicle at a car show.
Final Installation Note – Measure Twice, Weld Once: Because every custom build is unique, a “dry fit” mockup is essential before final welding. Variations in rim height, wheel backspacing, aftermarket spindles, and upgraded brake kits can all influence the exact placement of your shock absorbers. It is essential to check your steering sweep from lock-to-lock to ensure no part of the wheel or braking system interferes with the shock.
To ensure a successful front shock installation, we recommend the following pro-tips: Cycle the Suspension with a floor jack to cycle your suspension through its full range of motion. Turn the wheels lock-to-lock to confirm there is no interference with the shock at any steering angle. Check Full Compression – when the vehicle is fully “aired out” (laid down), the shock should not bottom out. We recommend maintaining at least a quarter-inch gap at full compression to prevent internal damage or mount failure. Lastly always do a final Clearance Check. Ensure your shock position provides a safe distance from factory sway bars, brake lines, and oversized wheels. If you are a novice builder, consulting with a professional shop or a certified welder is highly advisable to ensure your shock relocation is safe, functional, and built to last.
REAR SHOCKS: Let’s talk about why you won’t find rear shocks in our kits. It isn’t an oversight—it’s by design. Our air springs are engineered to work in harmony with a standard factory gas shock. While other companies push high-end, name-brand shocks as ‘essential,’ the reality is that the quality and long stroke of our airbags handle the vehicle’s weight and support.
The shock has one job: to act as a dampener for the airbag. It’s there to smooth things out when you’re zipping over railroad tracks at 45 mph or hitting an unexpected pothole. If a shock is too stiff or ‘heavy-duty,’ it actually interferes with the air spring’s ability to absorb impact. A robust, expensive shock will fight the bag, robbing you of that cloud-like ride quality and even lessening your dynamic lift.
If your current rear shocks look like relics from Montgomery Ward, are spewing oil, or were installed back in high school auto shop (we’re looking at you, 70s-era Hijackers), it’s time for an upgrade. But don’t break the bank. Visit your local auto parts store and grab the most affordable, basic stock gas shock available. You’ll get a better ride, better lift, and you can put that $300+ savings right back into your pocket where it belongs. BUILDER’S TIP: Avoid high-dollar “performance” drop shocks—they are far too restrictive for a superior, long-stroke air spring like our EZ Air Ride bag. They act like a limit strap, fighting your airbags and stealing your lift. For the best ride quality and maximum height, a cheap, stock gas shock from your local auto parts store is actually the superior choice.
THE AIR TANK : Our exclusive tanks have a capacity of just over 6 gallons. They measure approximately 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.
THE AIR COMPRESSOR: Introducing our premium 496 SS compressor, featuring a maximum working pressure of 200 psi. This compressor is a 100% duty cycle pump, delivering 2.19 CFM. This work horse is the ideal choice for any onboard air ride system. Each 496 SS pump includes a special set of “Sound Stabilizer” 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
The Classic Plus Gauge Panel™ serves as the primary control center for your air ride system. The Classic Plus gauge will offer ease over excess. This is where you adjust the pressure in each bag, equipped with four paddle valve switches and two glass gauges containing dual needles to cover both front & rear air bags. The panel is designed for smooth and simple control – there’s no need for fancy finger maneuvers to control the paddle valves, so you don’t need to be a finger acrobat. Each paddle valve is strategically paired at both ends of the sleek gauge panel for ease of adjustment. You can effortlessly use your finger or thumb to raise the front or back of the vehicle uniformly. The panel’s four-corner control allows for fine-tuning each corner, or just the front, back, or side to side. This comprehensive control over your suspension lets you modify it to your exact liking with a mere touch of a finger.
- Gauge Panel Features:
- Aluminum Panel with 4 paddle valves
- Dual needle glass air pressure gauge: 0-200 psi
- Brushed aluminum dial with bright white L.E.D. bulbs & power harness
- An all metal gauge casing with black & orange needles
The Air Fittings: Our genuine and easy-to-use air ride brass fittings are certified by the Department of Transportation, ensuring their durability and strength. Compared to plastic and metal fittings, our brass DOT fittings are more durable and stronger, capable of withstanding higher pressure levels without cracking or stressing. Their high resistance to corrosion makes them perfect for long-term use in air ride suspension systems exposed to moisture and other elements. These certified brass fittings are designed and tested to meet specific performance standards, guaranteeing reliability and consistency in their operation. With a reduced likelihood of failure or leaks, they provide a secure connection for your air ride suspension system.
Brass Fittings Included with the Classic Plus Kit:
- (4) 1/4″ x 3/8″ NPT Air bag fittings: (2) swivel 90’s for the front (2) swivel 90’s for the rear
- (2) 1/4″ x 1/2″ NPT Gauge fittings: Mounts to air tank for air supply to gauge
- (1) 1/4″ Spare Air Quick Connect w/adapter: Mounts to air tank
- (1) 1/4″ female Air Coupler w/ Tire Schrader Valve: For Roadside Air
- (1) 165 on / 200 off 1/4″ Sealed Pressure Switch w/lead wires: Mounts to tank
- (1) 1/4″ Butterfly Petcock: Mounts to underside of air tank
- All Brass 1/4″ PTC Classic Plus Gauge Panel Fittings: (6) Brass Tees (Push-to-Connects) & (4) Straights
