2007 GMC Sierra Air Bag Suspension - Lay Out a Late Model

Jared then drilled holes into the original frame and around the notch to provide more surface area for a secure weld joint.

A large vise was then clamped down onto the frame. This squeezed the frame tight against the notch and the gaps were welded together. Several gussets were welded inside the cut areas of the frame to keep everything structurally sound.

After grinding the welds smooth, Jared and Reed were able to hoist up the rear end and check the notch for clearance.

It was time to move to the AVS four-link, which included urethane bushings, zerk fittings for grease, and adjustable collars. More measurements were taken to make sure the link stayed parallel and had the proper length.

The four-link mounts were welded onto the side of the frame and rear body mount.

On the axle, the four-link mounts were welded into place and the bars were bolted on.

Moving to the 'bag mounts, a level and T-square were used to keep them parallel, and a piece of steel was used for 'bag mock-up. Once happy with the positioning, Jared welded them to the C-notch and the lower 'bag mounted to the axle.

After finding the appropriate mounting position for the AVS Panhard bar, the tabs were welded onto the inside of the frame, and the bar was positioned into place. It was a little long and needed to be cut down to fit properly. After it was cut, the ends were welded on, and the bar was bolted into place and adjusted.

The upper 'bag mount crossmember needed to be trimmed, as well. Luckily the Fullmer's had a lath that they fitted with a fish-mouth bit, then they were able to notch the tubing.

Jared welded the crossmember into place, then he welded in the AVS gussets to the 'bag mounts.

Next, Reed mounted the AVS compressor mounting brackets to the inside rear framerails and bolted down the Viair compressors.

The 3-gallon air tanks were then bolted on and the fittings were snugged down for the compressor and air lines.

Here, you can see the Easy Street Auto Pilot digital controller, air fittings, valves, and two Viair 480C compressors.

With the fittings placed into the valves, the assemblies were placed under the spare tire holder for a clean and out-of-sight installation.

Satisfied with the placement of everything, the entire frame and components received a coat of Rust-Oleum for a finished and presentable look.

Wiring for the compressors, relays, and Easy Street Auto Pilot controller was underway.

Once the connectors were crimped and received heat-shrink coatings, the wires were run along the rails, up to the battery, and the one wire for the Auto Pilot ran into the cab. Check out the clean install.

After taking some measurements, the Fullmers quickly realized the driveshaft was going to hit the middle crossmember under the cab. Using 1/4-inch steel, Jared fabbed up a small C-notch, so he could cut out a small piece of the almost 2-1/2-inch-tall crossmember and replace it with this 1/4-inch-tall piece.

Jared cut the 7 inches out the crossmember and welded in his new notch into place, which allowed the necessary driveshaft clearance.

The same exact procedure was performed on the rear most crossmember for added driveshaft clearance.

It wasn't until the test drive, when the guys found out a two-piece driveshaft would need to be built to clear the 24s and lay the body.