QuestionHave had several repairs to air ride system, and the last time at the dealership for a transmission replacement, the truck came back with a slight list to the right side. Dealer retorqued the right torsion bar to specs but that did not help. Can the system be dropped someway and then allow it to pump up again to see if that would help. I only have 57,000 miles on it and it annoys me. Thanks for your input.
AnswerHey Scott,
Mine does it to the left just a bit. I thought it was because I need to loose a few pounds! LOL I found this TSB about the air suspension light being on, but it looks as if it pertains to our two cars... Note that it only calls for a half an hour on 4X4.
Article No.
01-12-8
06/25/01
^ SUSPENSION - AIR SUSPENSION - DIAGNOSTIC
TROUBLE CODES (DTC'S) B2140 OR C2140 -
RIDE HEIGHT RESET PROCEDURE
^ ELECTRICAL - LAMP - AIR SUSPENSION LAMP
ILLUMINATED - DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES
(DTC'S) B2140 OR C2140 - RIDE HEIGHT RESET
PROCEDURE
FORD:
1997-2001 EXPEDITION
LINCOLN:
1998-2001 NAVIGATOR
ISSUE
Some vehicles may exhibit a check suspension lamp ON with Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC's) B2140 or C2140 even after the Air Suspension switch in the upper RH kick panel has been turned on. This may occur at pre-delivery, following suspension service, or after Air Suspension module replacement. This may be caused by the ride height calibration.
ACTION
Adjust and/or recalibrate ride height as necessary using the NGS (New Generation Star) Tester. Refer to the following Service Procedure for details.
OTHER APPLICABLE ARTICLES: NONE
WARRANTY STATUS: Eligible Under The Provisions Of Bumper To Bumper Warranty Coverage
OPERATION DESCRIPTION TIME
011208A Recalibrate Ride Height 0.2 Hr.
For Rear Air Suspension
(R.A.S.) 4X2 Vehicles Only
011208B Recalibrate Ride Height 0.5 Hr.
For 4 Wheel Air
Suspension (4W.A.S.)
(Includes Time To Adjust
Torsion Bars 4X4 Vehicles
Only)
DEALER CODING
CONDITION
BASIC PART NO. CODE
5A919 42
OASIS CODES: 206000, 304000, 390000
I would ask your dealer about this issue. And here, there is a lot more.
NOTE DURING PDI (PRE-DELIVERY INSPECTION) IF "CK SUSP" LIGHT IS ON, PRIOR TO SENDING TO SERVICE, VERIFY SWITCH IN UPPER RIGHT KICK PANEL IS ON. THIS SWITCH IS TURNED OFF DURING VEHICLE SHIPMENT TO PREVENT MODULE FROM SEEKING TRIM HEIGHT WHILE SECURED DOWN FOR TRANSPORT.
NOTE AN INADVERTENT B2140 OR C2140 MAY RESULT IF A PARAMETER RESET (CLEAR RIDE HEIGHT) IS SELECTED UNDER NGS ACTIVE COMMANDS, THEN CANCELLED OUT.
NOTE THE AIR SUSPENSION CONTROL MODULE PART NUMBER IS INTERCHANGEABLE BETWEEN THE REAR AIR SUSPENSION (RAS) AND 4-WHEEL AIR SUSPENSION (4WAS) SYSTEMS, BUT ONCE THE MODULE IS INSTALLED, THE VEHICLE WILL THEN DETERMINE WHETHER VEHICLE IS 4X2 (RAS) OR 4X4 (4WAS) BASED ON VEHICLE HARNESS INPUTS.
NOTE MODULES ARE PRE-PROGRAMMED TO SEEK 2.66 VOLTS + 1.02 VOLTS FROM REAR HEIGHT SENSOR (RHGSTEN PARAMETER IDENTIFIER OR PID) AT TRIM HEIGHT. HOWEVER, A NEW OR SWAPPED MODULE REQUIRES CALIBRATION PER STEPS BELOW TO CLEAR A 2140 (INITIALIZATION FAILURE) CODE.
NOTE PERFORM 4WAS-AIR SUSP/EVO (ELECTRONIC VARIABLE ORIFICE STEERING) SELF TEST AND MAKE NECESSARY REPAIRS FOR ANY OTHER AIR SUSPENSION DTC'S THAT ARE PRESENT BEFORE ADDRESSING B2140/C2140.
WARNING
WARNING :BEFORE REPLACING ANY AIR SUSPENSION COMPONENTS, HOISTING, JACKING, OR TOWING, DISCONNECT POWER TO THE SYSTEM BY, TURNING OFF THE AIR SUSPENSION SWITCH LOCATED IN THE RIGHT KICK PANEL AREA TO PREVENT VEHICLE DAMAGE OR PERSONAL INJURY.
RAS ONLY - CLEAR 2140
NOTE EVEN RAS (4X2) EQUIPPED VEHICLES REQUIRE STORING RIDE HEIGHT AND TOGGLING FRONT TO "ON" TO CLEAR A CK SUSP LIGHT/214O CODE. THIS ALLOWS THE MODULE TO STORE THE VOLTAGE WITH NO FRONT HEIGHT SENSOR PRESENT, AND MUST BE DONE EVEN WITH CONVENTIONAL (STEEL COIL) FRONT SUSPENSION.
1. Enter 4WAS active commands and trigger on SAVE CAL (Store Ride Height).
NOTE YOU MUST DISREGARD WARNING THAT FURTHER ACTION PERMANENTLY WRITES TO THE MODULE AND TRIGGER THROUGH.
2. Trigger through the NGS warning message. NGS screen will now split with active commands on the LH side of screen and any PIDS selected on the right.
3. Toggle FRONT to "ON", press Cancel.
NOTE CANCEL MUST BE SELECTED TO COMPLETE THE OPERATION. DO NOT SAVE OR CLEAR REAR RIDE HEIGHT.
4. Retrieve and clear continuous DTC's; at this point a 2140 code should be present. Press NGS # 7 keypad button located directly underneath the word "CLEAR" on the LCD screen, depress trigger per screen prompt, and wait for message stating "system passed - no DTCs available". Earlier NGS software revision levels may require repeating these steps several times before a system pass message is received.
5. Cancel out of continuous test in Step # 4 after receiving pass code message. Select on-demand self test, trigger, press NGS # 3 keypad button located directly underneath the word "START" on the LCD screen. Note on-screen instructions to prepare vehicle for test/function then trigger to begin the test. You should hear underhood noise from compressor and relays indicating this functional (on-demand) test is in process. As test completes, verify a "system passed" message is received.
6. Cancel out of on-demand test, remove NGS tester, start vehicle and verify the check suspension indicator remains off.
4WAS - CLEAR 2140 DTC - Mechanical
NOTE OBSERVE AND REPAIR ANY DAMAGED PARTS OR SYSTEM LEAKS, INSPECTING THE AIR LINE UNION LOCATED UNDER THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER FIRST. IF BRAKE FLUID HAS DAMAGED THE LINE, REPLACE THEN REROUTE NEW AIR LINE AWAY FROM AN ORIENTATION DIRECTLY UNDER THE MASTER CYLINDER. BRUSH A SOAPY WATER SOLUTION ON REMAINING SYSTEM CONNECTIONS, INCLUDING INLINE AND "T" UNIONS; AIR LINE RUB POINTS; COMPRESSOR FITTINGS; GATE AND FILL SOLENOIDS; AND AIR SHOCKS/SPRINGS. KEEP IN MIND THAT AIR SPRING LEAKS WHERE THE BAG FOLDS OVER ITSELF MAY NOT BE IMMEDIATELY OBVIOUS WITHOUT CYCLING THE SUSPENSION THROUGH DIFFERENT HEIGHTS. IF AIR BUBBLES ARE DETECTED, REPAIR AS NECESSARY THEN RETEST TO ENSURE LEAK-FREE CONNECTIONS BEFORE COMPLETING THE STEPS BELOW.
1. Bring the vehicle to kneel height by turning ignition key off, gear lever in park, doors closed for up to 30 seconds on level ground. Listen for compressor's vent solenoid to release air from lines before proceeding. Venting should occur within approximately one minute of closing all doors with the key in the "off" position.
2. Erase the module's memory:
^ Trigger 4WAS active commands, PARAMETER RESET (Clear Ride Height)
WARNING DO NOT RESET REAR HEIGHT AT THIS TIME!
^ Trigger thru warning message, then toggle FRONT CLR from "OFF" to "ON" Press Cancel
NOTE CANCEL MUST BE SELECTED TO COMPLETE THE OPERATION!
3. You have now cleared the front kneel voltage stored in the module and B2140 will be present on next key-up.
4. Bleed air from front shocks:
^ Mark existing torsion bar setting, then back off the torsion bar adjustment bolt several turns (until approximately 40 mm (1.5") distance from the bolt head to the bottom surface of the torsion bar adjuster is reached)
^ Select AIR SUSP CNTRL from active command menu (NGS will return to this after previous steps)
^ Trigger VENT FRONT, then wait several seconds for air to vent. Press Cancel to exit.
5. Adjust torsion bars per Workshop Manual section 204-01B.
NOTE LEAVE THE NGS CONNECTED IN ACTIVE COMMAND MODES (ENTERED IN STEP 4) 50 THE SYSTEM REMAINS IN DIAGNOSTIC MODE AND NOT OPERATIONAL MODE.
6. Finish by performing the following electrical front height reset steps.
4WAS - CLEAR 2140 DTC - Electrical
1. Enter 4WAS active commands and trigger on SAVE CAL (Store Ride Height).
NOTE YOU MUST DISREGARD WARNING THAT FURTHER ACTION PERMANENTLY WRITES TO THE MODULE AND TRIGGER THROUGH.
2. Trigger through the NGS warning message. NGS screen will now split with active commands on the LH side of screen and any PIDS selected on the right.
3. Toggle FRONT to "ON". press Cancel.
NOTE CANCEL MUST BE SELECTED TO COMPLETE THE OPERATION. DO NOT SAVE OR CLEAR REAR RIDE HEIGHT.
4. Retrieve and clear continuous DTC's; at this point a 2140 code should be present. Press NGS # 7 keypad button located directly underneath the word "CLEAR" on the LCD screen, depress trigger per screen prompt, and wait for message stating "system passed - no DTCs available". Earlier NGS software revision levels may require repeating these steps several times before a system pass message is received.
5. Cancel out of continuous test in Step 4 after receiving pass code message. Select on-demand self test, trigger, press NGS # 3 keypad button located directly underneath the word "START" on the LCD screen. Note on-screen instructions to prepare vehicle for test/function then trigger to begin the test. You should hear underhood noise from compressor and relays indicating this functional on-demand test is in process. As test completes, verity a "system passed" message is received.
6. Cancel out of on-demand test, remove NGS tester, start vehicle and verify the check suspension indicator remains off and vehicle height settles out as compressor fills air bladders/shocks.
NOTE FOR OTHER AIR SUSPENSION CONCERNS, REFER TO THE APPROPRIATE WORKSHOP MANUAL SECTIONS: 204-05A FOR VEHICLE DYNAMIC SUSPENSION - REAR, OR SECTION 204-05B FOR VEHICLE DYNAMIC SUSPENSION - 4 WHEEL.
I realize this is a lot of info, but I wanted you to have some ammo when talking to the dealer. Guess what, this might be what we are after... I understand that you have had a lot of repairs done to the air ride so this might be the issue.
Article No.
03-9-2
05/12/03
^ SUSPENSION - REPEAT AIR SUSPENSION COMPRESSOR DRIER FAILURES
^ ELECTRICAL - REPEAT AIR SUSPENSION COMPRESSOR DRIER FAILURES
FORD:
1997-2002 EXPEDITION
LINCOLN:
1998-2002 NAVIGATOR
Article 03-7-9 is being republished in its entirety to update the Service Procedure.
ISSUE
Some 1997-2002 Expedition 4X4 and 1998-2002 Navigator 4X4 vehicles equipped with 4-wheel air suspension, may exhibit repeat air compressor drier failures. The drier cap may become detached from the drier body, or the drier body may be broken at the neck near the compressor head. This may be due to incomplete or incorrect system diagnosis that leads to replacement of only the original air suspension compressor, despite the fact that the compressor is not the root cause of the concern. Compressor failure in these instances is only a symptom of an underlying system problem.
ACTION
Refer to the service information contained in this TSB for information on proper diagnosis of system issues. Be sure to check the system for proper pneumatic function as described during service to ensure a robust repair.
SERVICE INFORMATION
Overview
Proper pneumatic function can be tested by verifying that both the front AND the rear of the vehicle can be raised and lowered one inch using a scan tool, and by monitoring the height sensor PIDs for movement while the vehicle is in the service bay. If the vehicle does not raise and lower normally, check the solenoid valves and air lines for blockages and/or restrictions. Replace any blocked or restricted solenoids and air lines. ALWAYS check for proper pneumatic function before returning the vehicle back to the customer.
NOTE DISCONNECTING AN AIR LINE THAT IS CONNECTED TO THE AIR COMPRESSOR CAN CAUSE PERSONAL INJURY OR DAMAGE TO COMPONENTS AS HIGH PRESSURE IS VENTED UNCONTROLLED.
If diagnostics lead to compressor/dryer assembly replacement, use the following service procedure to insure complete and thorough service.
1. Using the New Generation STAR (NGS) tester, vent the compressor/drier assembly.
2. Using regulated shop air, blow out the air lines from the drier to the front fill solenoid valve and from the drier to the rear fill solenoid valve, before installing the new compressor assembly.
3. Replace the air suspension compressor assembly. Refer to Workshop Manual Section 204-05 for compressor installation instructions.
4. Replace the front fill solenoid. Refer to Workshop Manual Section 204-05 for replacement instructions. The front fill solenoid must be replaced because in these cases, it may have sustained damage from the drier desiccant or other contaminants.
5. Connect the New Generation STAR (NGS) tester to the vehicle while the vehicle is parked in the service bay with the engine running.
6. Install a pressure gauge capable of reading 400 PSI at the front air line (Figure 1). Using the scan tool, command the compressor ON. Check the output of the compressor on the gauge:
a. If the compressor does not output at least 110 PSI within 30 seconds, replace the compressor again and retest.
NOTE VERIFY THAT THE SUSPENSION RAISES PROPERLY.
7. Using the scan tool, command the front of the vehicle to raise up one inch. The front suspension should rise one inch in 25 seconds or less.
a. If the compressor output is near 300 PSI, check4or air line or solenoid restrictions, repair as necessary and retest. Otherwise, proceed to Step 7b.
NOTE SUSPENSION UPWARD MOVEMENT CAN BE VERIFIED BY MONITORING EITHER OF THE FRONT HEIGHT SENSOR PIDS, WHICH SHOULD DECREASE BY .35 TO .45 VOLTS.
b. If the front of the vehicle DOES NOT raise, check the front pneumatic system for leaks, inoperable or blocked solenoid valves or pinched air lines. If an issue is found, repair as required and repeat Step 7 to verify proper operation.
c. If no problem found, continue to Step 8.
NOTE VERIFY THAT SUSPENSION PROPERLY.
8. If the front of the vehicle DOES raise, use the scan tool to command the front of the vehicle to lower one inch. The front suspension should lower one inch in 20 seconds or less.
NOTE SUSPENSION DOWNWARD MOVEMENT CAN BE VERIFIED BY MONITORING EITHER OF THE FRONT HEIGHT SENSOR PIDS, WHICH SHOULD INCREASE BY .35 TO .45 VOLTS.
a. If the front of the vehicle DOES NOT lower, check the front pneumatic system for leaks, inoperable or blocked solenoid valves, an inoperable vent solenoid, or pinched air lines. Repair air lines or replace solenoid valves as required.
9. Repeat Steps 7 and 8 for the rear. Command the rear of the vehicle, and monitor the rear height sensor PID. Voltages should increase when the vehicle is lowered, and decrease when the vehicle is raised. If the rear of the vehicle does not raise and lower as commanded, inspect the rear pneumatic system for leaks, inoperable or blocked solenoid valves, an inoperable vent solenoid, or pinched air lines, and repair as necessary.
10. If the vehicle raises and lowers normally in both the front and the rear, test drive the vehicle to confirm the repair.
Parts Block
OTHER APPLICABLE ARTICLES: NONE
SUPERSEDES: 03-7-9
WARRANTY STATUS: INFORMATION ONLY
OASIS CODES: 203000, 304000
This is the largest response I have ever written. I sure hope it helps.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your's
