2008 Yukon XL Denali air ride suspension failing

[optimusprime]

Hey all. I've got 130,*** on my 08 Denali XL. I am certain the rear air bags are failing. The compressor comes on all the time (and it's loud) and I can hear a tiny hiss when the vehicle is turned off immediately afterward. I have read a little about the subject and was wondering what the difference between the OEM electronic dampening is and the passive air bags from Arnott. Can anyone recommend one over the other? Does the compressor still activate to inflate the passive bags? Sorry for my ignorance.

 

[Big Mama]

Are you sure it’s the bags and not a hose or connector? You might want to consider replacing all of it. The compressor is working hard.

 

[KATfishing]

I have 147K on my 08 Yukon Denali and while everything is still working, I'm pretty sure I'm on borrowed time. I was checking out the kits on Amazon, and I have to say I'm encouraged. Here's one with new compressor and Arnott shocks, which I hear are pretty awesome: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N7TWDM...olid=3OK7KSNQJJW3Q&psc=0&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it

Here's another kit, with same components, but what appears to be generic shocks:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078PL9LL...olid=3OK7KSNQJJW3Q&psc=0&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it

You can also purchase the hoses if needed. I don't understand how mine is still working, but I'm already planning for the Arnott shocks and will likely do the kit including new compressor because they also give $25 back for each OE shock, plus a limited lifetime warranty. Dealers quote $2,500. For under $600, this seems like a no-brainer, assuming you're willing to take it on.

 

[Doubeleive]

air release after the vehicle is turned off is normal, it will also do this right before the pump is activated each you turn the key to start.
if you suspect your shock bladders are leaking spray them with a mixture of soap and water from a spray bottle and check for air bubbles.
the Arnott oem re-manufactured replacements from rockauto with a lifetime warranty are a one time expense and a bargain compared to what the dealer wants.

 

[adventurenali92]

To answer the question from op, yes the air bags will still fill up on the arnott passive shocks. They’re still an air shock they just don’t have the electronic dampening. They have a resistor wired into the back side of where the sensor plugs in on the shock. It’s still a good option for replacing OEM air suspension. Arnott makes really good products both for passive and electronic dampened shocks.

 

[KATfishing]

They’re still an air shock they just don’t have the electronic dampening.

We does electronic dampening do? (I'm learning every day)

 

[Costal_Cat]

We does electronic dampening do? (I'm learning every day)

Check out my post here it might help with an explanation

https://www.tahoeyukonforum.com/threads/new-shocks.110205/page-2#post-1318160

 

[optimusprime]

That was helpful Coastal_Cat. Thank you. Is there a real world felt difference in the ride between the electronic vs passive shocks? Also, if the OEM shocks use electrical signals to make the change the stiffness of the ride, do the passive shocks just use pressure to change? And in your opinion, what is the better option? I don't tow anything but I regularly tow my family around (5 of us total).

 

[Costal_Cat]

That was helpful Coastal_Cat. Thank you. Is there a real world felt difference in the ride between the electronic vs passive shocks? Also, if the OEM shocks use electrical signals to make the change the stiffness of the ride, do the passive shocks just use pressure to change? And in your opinion, what is the better option? I don't tow anything but I regularly tow my family around (5 of us total).

Yes, your understanding is correct in regards to passive shocks. I will say that I feel passive with the airbags is the most reliable and useful vs the electric damping. If you remove the airbag feature you may want to look at stiffer springs.

I think the best option is Arnott Passive shocks with the Airbags. Replace the compressor when you do that and you will be very happy. I like the level control when the kids and dogs and stuff are all loaded in addition to towing...

When the fronts go do the same with those Arnott Passive replacements. Both front and back will come with resistors to eliminate error messages due to eliminating the e-shocks

 

[Big Mama]

What he said