Looking at suspension upgrades for my F53 chassis. SDI E-Clik costs about a third of what Liquid Spring systems run, but I'm wondering what you actually get for that price difference.
Is E-Clik just electronic shock control, or does it offer more comprehensive suspension improvements? How does the ride quality compare between the two systems on F53 motorhomes?
SDI E-Clik provides electronic shock control at about a third of Liquid Springs cost. Its not a complete suspension replacement but offers meaningful ride improvement for F53 chassis.
Yes, several RV owners have installed the E-Clik system on F53 chassis motorhomes, and the feedback has been generally positive for those seeking an affordable air suspension upgrade. You're absolutely right that it's a simpler system than Liquid Spring - the E-Clik uses basic air bags and manual controls rather than the computerized, self-leveling technology of premium systems. At roughly $2,500-$3,500 installed versus $10,000+ for Liquid Spring (prices may vary significantly based on location, dealer, and specific requirements), it offers a significant cost advantage while still providing improved ride quality and the ability to level your coach. The system works particularly well on the F53 chassis because Ford's leaf spring setup responds well to the air bag assist, reducing the harsh ride and body roll that's common with these chassis.
Most owners report noticeable improvements in ride comfort, reduced sway, and better handling, especially when loaded. The manual inflation system means you'll need to adjust air pressure based on load and road conditions, but many find this acceptable given the cost savings. Installation typically takes a full day for an experienced shop, and the system includes air bags that mount between the chassis and axle, along with an onboard air compressor and cockpit controls.
The F53 chassis comes with a basic leaf spring suspension system that's designed more for durability and load capacity than ride comfort. This setup works fine for commercial trucks, but when you mount a large motorhome body on top, several issues commonly arise. The leaf springs are relatively stiff to handle the weight, which transmits road imperfections directly into the coach. The high center of gravity combined with the basic suspension creates significant body roll in turns and crosswinds.
Additionally, the F53's rear overhang - where much of the motorhome's living space extends behind the rear axle - creates leverage that amplifies every bump and road irregularity. When you hit a pothole or expansion joint, that impact gets magnified through the long coach body. The leaf springs also don't adjust for varying loads, so whether you're traveling with full water tanks and gear or nearly empty, the suspension remains the same.
Air suspension systems like the E-Clik address these issues by adding adjustability and cushioning between the chassis and coach. The air bags can be inflated or deflated to compensate for different loads, and they provide a more progressive spring rate that absorbs impacts better than leaf springs alone. This is why you see such dramatic improvements in ride quality with these upgrades.
For the E-Clik installation, you'll need the complete kit which typically includes four air bags (front and rear), mounting brackets specific to the F53 chassis, air lines, fittings, an onboard air compressor, and the cockpit control panel. The kit runs about $2,000-$2,500 depending on your specific F53 year and configuration (consult with dealers for current pricing as costs vary by region and specific requirements). You'll also want to budget for professional installation unless you're very experienced with chassis modifications.
WARNING: Working under heavy vehicles requires proper jack stands and safety procedures. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a floor jack.
Tools required for DIY installation include a floor jack and jack stands rated for your motorhome's weight, basic hand tools, air line cutting and fitting tools, and potentially some welding equipment if custom bracket modifications are needed. You'll need a drill for mounting the control panel and compressor, along with electrical supplies for the 12V connections. Safety equipment is crucial since you'll be working under a heavy vehicle.
Before installation, gather information about your specific F53 year and configuration, as there are variations in mounting points and clearances. Take photos of your current suspension setup and measure available space for the air bags and compressor mounting. Contact SDI (Suspension Direct International) to confirm the correct part for your model (verify with dealer) - they typically need your F53 year, wheelbase, and GVWR to specify the correct components.
WARNING: This procedure involves working under a heavy vehicle. Use proper jack stands rated for the vehicle weight and follow all safety protocols.
Installation begins with safely lifting and supporting the motorhome on jack stands, then removing the wheels to access the suspension components. The air bags mount between the chassis frame and the existing leaf spring assembly, typically using brackets that bolt to existing mounting points on the F53. Front installation usually involves mounting the air bags between the frame rails and the front leaf springs, while rear bags mount between the frame and rear leaf springs to provide air assist to the existing suspension.
The air compressor mounts in an accessible location in a bay or under the hood, connected to the coach's 12V electrical system. Air lines run from the compressor to each air bag, with the routing carefully planned to avoid moving parts, exhaust components, and areas where lines could be damaged. Check air bag clearance and suspension travel limits to ensure proper operation through the full range of motion. Verify suspension geometry and proper air bag alignment by cycling the suspension through its complete travel range to prevent binding or interference. All connections use push-to-connect fittings for reliability. The control panel mounts in the cockpit where you can easily adjust each corner independently.
Before beginning any air system service, depressurize the system completely. When making 12V electrical connections, disconnect the battery to prevent shorts. After installation, check all connections for air leaks before pressurizing, then gradually pressurize the system following manufacturer specifications during initial setup and testing. Start with manufacturer-recommended pressures, then adjust based on your coach's loaded weight and desired ride characteristics. Most owners find that 40-80 PSI provides good ride improvement while maintaining stability (consult manufacturer specifications for your specific system). Higher pressures firm up the ride and reduce body roll but can make the ride harsh over bumps. The key is finding the sweet spot for your specific coach and driving style. Torque all fasteners to manufacturer specifications.
Professional installation typically takes 6-8 hours and costs vary significantly by location and installer, making the total investment variable depending on local rates and specific requirements. Many RV service centers are familiar with these installations on F53 chassis, though you may want to verify their experience with air suspension systems before committing.
WARNING: This is definitely a job for experienced DIY mechanics or professional installers. Working under a heavy motorhome requires proper jack stands and safety procedures - never trust just a floor jack. The electrical connections need to be done correctly to avoid issues with the compressor, and improper air line routing can lead to leaks or damage from moving suspension components. If you're not comfortable with these aspects, professional installation is worth the cost.
Be aware that while the E-Clik system improves ride quality significantly, it's not a complete transformation like more expensive systems. You'll still have the basic F53 chassis characteristics, just with better damping and adjustability. The manual controls mean you'll need to learn optimal pressure settings for different load conditions - it's not automatic like premium systems. Also, air suspension adds complexity and potential failure points, so regular maintenance and inspection of air lines and fittings becomes important.
Finally, understand that this modification may affect your chassis warranty if it's still in effect, and you should notify your insurance company of the modification. Company of the upgrade. Some owners report minor clearance issues with certain air bag positions, so verify fitment with your specific coach configuration before ordering. Despite these considerations, most F53 owners who've installed the E-Clik system report significant satisfaction with the ride improvement.t relative to the cost. Consult manufacturer documentation and experienced installers for specific technical guidance on your particular application.
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