Air Suspension - Temporary Fix?

[cy8ercop]

Hello!

My pump to the air suspension on my Marauder has went out.. I thought I had read on here somewhere that there was a way to inflate the rear suspension with a compressor or something until I can get the pump replaced.. How hard is that to do??

Thanks!

[GetMeMyStogie]

That would be nice, but no, it's not possible to inflate the suspension with an external air hose. If your rear end hasn't yet sunk too low, turn off the air suspension switch in the trunk ASAP. That will ensure whatever air is in your springs will stay there until you replace the air pump (unless the air springs are leaking).
You've got to ask yourself why the air pump died - a common reason is leaky air springs (which forces the pump to continually try pumping them up, overworking the pump and killing it in short order).

Have a look at arnott air suspensions (http://www.arnottindustries.com/) for inexpensive replacements. Their parts are decent quality for the right price - but don't expect them to last as long as OEM.

[jdando]

That would be nice, but no, it's not possible to inflate the suspension with an external air hose. ......

This is not correct. When my compressor went out I was able to un-hook the compressor, re-inflate the bags and then turn the air suspension switch off. This allowed the bags to stay inflated until my new compressor from arnott arrived.

Driving with the car on the bump stops is no fun and potentially dangerous.

The temporary fix how-to;
Thanks to "Grifter"
OK, heres what you do to get the car back up to ride height (if its the compressor that died, not the bags that blew.)

This works a little easier w/ 2 people, and an air compressor with a rubber tipped air nozzle (worked well for me, the tube type may as well if thats all you have) a small 5 gallon (@ 80ish psi) tank should have enough air in it. It doesnt take much air to get the bags back up

Pop the trunk, you will need access to the air ride switch. Remove the air box (if you have it, or other intake assembly) to reveal the suspension compressor beneath. locate the air line coming out of the small tank attatched tot he pump. remove the air line. Push the colored ring in and pull the tube out to remove it.
with the air ride switch in the on position,and the air compressor all ready to go, have a buddy hop in the car and turn the key to 'On' but dont start it. in a couple seconds you will hear the compressor kick on/grind/howl (whatever noise it makes if any) and/or you will hear the solenoids 'click' from the rear bags. once you hear either of those, start pumping air from the compressor into the air line you removed. that will start to inflate the rear bags. keep filling until the suspension pump stops, or the rear solenoids click shut, or until you get whatever rear height you want.
once you get to the desired height, go to the trunk and flip the air ride switch off so that the computer doesnt make the solenoids open again and you lose all your air. FYI having the air bag switch off will also make the 'air ride' light come on in the dash.

thats how you can manually add air to the bags and still drive around with a broken compressor. I did that for a week when mine went out..

My adventures;

http://www.mercurymarauder.net/forums/showthread.php?t=51567

[Sully008]

I just did this on Sunday. Worked like a charm. The car will be going in to change the compressor and some other minor stuff before the warranty is up in October.


This is not correct. When my compressor went out I was able to un-hook the compressor, re-inflate the bags and then turn the air suspension switch off. This allowed the bags to stay inflated until my new compressor from arnott arrived.

Driving with the car on the bump stops is no fun and potentially dangerous.

The temporary fix how-to;
Thanks to "Grifter"
OK, heres what you do to get the car back up to ride height (if its the compressor that died, not the bags that blew.)

This works a little easier w/ 2 people, and an air compressor with a rubber tipped air nozzle (worked well for me, the tube type may as well if thats all you have) a small 5 gallon (@ 80ish psi) tank should have enough air in it. It doesnt take much air to get the bags back up

Pop the trunk, you will need access to the air ride switch. Remove the air box (if you have it, or other intake assembly) to reveal the suspension compressor beneath. locate the air line coming out of the small tank attatched tot he pump. remove the air line. Push the colored ring in and pull the tube out to remove it.
with the air ride switch in the on position,and the air compressor all ready to go, have a buddy hop in the car and turn the key to 'On' but dont start it. in a couple seconds you will hear the compressor kick on/grind/howl (whatever noise it makes if any) and/or you will hear the solenoids 'click' from the rear bags. once you hear either of those, start pumping air from the compressor into the air line you removed. that will start to inflate the rear bags. keep filling until the suspension pump stops, or the rear solenoids click shut, or until you get whatever rear height you want.
once you get to the desired height, go to the trunk and flip the air ride switch off so that the computer doesnt make the solenoids open again and you lose all your air. FYI having the air bag switch off will also make the 'air ride' light come on in the dash.

thats how you can manually add air to the bags and still drive around with a broken compressor. I did that for a week when mine went out..

My adventures;

http://www.mercurymarauder.net/forums/showthread.php?t=51567

[Go Mifuni]

Yup. I did this too a couple years ago. Worked perfectly. Timing is everything, and you can hear the pitch change in the compressor when the valve shuts after 10 seconds.

[GetMeMyStogie]

I stand corrected.

I can add that it should be possible to engage the air bag solenoids directly, by jumping a couple of pins on the air suspension module connector. I did this before on my '94 MGM, when my air pump died (I had a spare compressor, and used it to pump up the rear end higher than normal, to allow for some loss of volume on cooler days).
As a bonus, when you unplug the module, the air suspension warning light no longer comes on.

[cy8ercop]

Thanks for everyones help and responses to my suspension issue! I am new to this site and just now found everyones responses!

I had attempted to "pump" up the rear end of the car with an external pump, but only managed to completely drop the rear end in the driveway!!

Anyway, I finally found a new pump from Parts.com for $229 and installed it 10 minutes flat.

[Hoodfella73]

where is this compressor located? i seen a how to post at some point, but i cant find it. i ordered the part from arnott also. thanks for so much valuable info. my blower speed controller went out last month.i purchased the part from dealer. the next month my headlights started going off at night and the suspension compressor went out. i googled mercury marauder problems and found this site. dealership wanted over $1500 to make these repairs. i tap under the dash and the lights come on so i won't be buying the $500 LCM at the dealership. i ordered the relays for my lights from mouser.com

2003 Mercury Marauder 77k

[Go Mifuni]

where is this compressor located? i seen a how to post at some point, but i cant find it. i ordered the part from arnott also. thanks for so much valuable info. my blower speed controller went out last month.i purchased the part from dealer. the next month my headlights started going off at night and the suspension compressor went out. i googled mercury marauder problems and found this site. dealership wanted over $1500 to make these repairs. i tap under the dash and the lights come on so i won't be buying the $500 LCM at the dealership. i ordered the relays for my lights from mouser.com

2003 Mercury Marauder 77k

For things to do with your Marauder, you found the right site! :beer:
The compressor is under the windshield washer bottle.

[Hoodfella73]

the check engine light is on now. how do i get that to go off?

[matth]

I recently turned my MM into a saggy rear-end racer. I pulled the compressor after reading this forum and discovered a rotted, rusted POS. I did manage to use the manual fill technique to get off the bump stops, but now I need a compressor and dryer.

I read on here that Arnott has a replacement compressor, but I called their tech support and they tell me I'm crazy. They have parts for a Grand Marquis and apparently they are different.

Ford wants $325 for the compressor alone and $90 for the dryer

parts.com has the compressor for $224 and the Dryer for $40.

Does anyone have advice on a good source for these parts?
Just figured I'd ask after scouring this site and calling around.

Does anyone have anything to add here?

-Matt

P.S. hoodfella73, if you're still looking at that light, go to AutoZone or O'Rielley's and have them run a diagnostic just to be sure you're not throwing a code for some other reason then ask them to clear it. They will do this for free.

[fastblackmerc]

I recently turned my MM into a saggy rear-end racer. I pulled the compressor after reading this forum and discovered a rotted, rusted POS. I did manage to use the manual fill technique to get off the bump stops, but now I need a compressor and dryer.

I read on here that Arnott has a replacement compressor, but I called their tech support and they tell me I'm crazy. They have parts for a Grand Marquis and apparently they are different.

Ford wants $325 for the compressor alone and $90 for the dryer

parts.com has the compressor for $224 and the Dryer for $40.

Does anyone have advice on a good source for these parts?
Just figured I'd ask after scouring this site and calling around.

Does anyone have anything to add here?

-Matt

P.S. hoodfella73, if you're still looking at that light, go to AutoZone or O'Rielley's and have them run a diagnostic just to be sure you're not throwing a code for some other reason then ask them to clear it. They will do this for free.

Search for the post(s) on how to fix the compressor before it goes bad.

[fastblackmerc]

the check engine light is on now. how do i get that to go off?

Use a scan tools to delete the code(s). Most FLAPS will do it for you.

[musclemerc]

Here's a company with our compressors for the cheap! http://www.arnottindustries.com/part_MERCURY_Air_Suspension_Pa rts_yid3_pid20_gid69.html

[matth]

Here's a company with our compressors for the cheap! http://www.arnottindustries.com/part_MERCURY_Air_Suspension_Pa rts_yid3_pid20_gid69.html

I called Arnott about that very compressor. They told me I was nuts. Actually every FLM dealer I talked to said the MM's have a unique part number, but noone could tell me what was different. From looking at Arnott's photo I immediately see a different electrical connector, ours are 4 conductor, that is a 2 conductor...

Has anyone had experience with Arnott?

I found an OEM replacement from a local dealer complete with the dryer for $260. I'm thinking about going with that.

http://www.partswebsite.com/fordpartsdealer/?i=1&make=138&model=1214&year=2004&catid=10048&subcatid=20009&section=24&type=parts

P.S. I just bought her 3k miles ago (100k now) so I'm just beginning to work the bugs out. Already replaced the LCM relays... [sigh]

[Jim_Rockford]

Little cheaper from these guys...
http://www.silverstatefordparts.com/partlocator/index.cfm?action=getJointLocat or&siteid=214290&chapter=&sectionids=24,2788&groupid=20009&subgroupid=60296&make=23&model=Marauder&year=2003&catalogid=1&displayCatalogid=0

but did you try and order the arnott one online? I have found 90% of the "technical support " people couldn't find their ass with both hands.

[imorb1994]

Here's a company with our compressors for the cheap! http://www.arnottindustries.com/part_MERCURY_Air_Suspension_Pa rts_yid3_pid20_gid69.html
That compressor is the one that many members have purchased, and works. Im real sure Arnott takes the correct pictures for every single compressor the have, not. It may look like 2 wire but JDando states in his thread that the one he used. http://www.mercurymarauder.net/forums/showthread.php?t=51567
I called Arnott about that very compressor. They told me I was nuts. Actually every FLM dealer I talked to said the MM's have a unique part number, but noone could tell me what was different. From looking at Arnott's photo I immediately see a different electrical connector, ours are 4 conductor, that is a 2 conductor...

Has anyone had experience with Arnott?

I found an OEM replacement from a local dealer complete with the dryer for $260. I'm thinking about going with that.

http://www.partswebsite.com/fordpartsdealer/?i=1&make=138&model=1214&year=2004&catid=10048&subcatid=20009&section=24&type=parts

P.S. I just bought her 3k miles ago (100k now) so I'm just beginning to work the bugs out. Already replaced the LCM relays... [sigh]

[jdando]

That compressor is the one that many members have purchased, and works. Im real sure Arnott takes the correct pictures for every single compressor the have, not. It may look like 2 wire but JDando states in his thread that the one he used. http://www.mercurymarauder.net/forums/showthread.php?t=51567

Quoted for truth :D

[jeffrt]

I just put in an Arnott compressor last month. Worked nicely. Ordered it online.

[The Great]

I know this post is really old but mine just went up. What exactly do you need to pull this manual inflation off. I ordered mine yesterday so it won't be in until this week.

[RF Overlord]

Pull the air line off the compressor and then trigger the system by turning the key on (no need to start the motor) and sitting in the driver's seat. You should hear the relay click and then you can apply air until the car is at ride height. Remember to shut off the switch in the trunk when you're done, so the system doesn't try to re-adjust until you have the new compressor installed.

[The Great]

And that's really all there is to it?? This line you're referring to is in the rear or the front under the MAF?

[RF Overlord]

It's connected to the drier module on the compressor. Push the orange ring, then pull the air line out.

[The Great]

Alright. Thanks, I need a quick fix until my part comes. Hopefully it'll be in tomorrow or Wednesday.

[The Great]

It didn't work. I don't know if I'm doing it right or what.

[RF Overlord]

What exactly didn't work? You triggered the system to inflate, and put air into the line you removed from the compressor, and the back end didn't lift?

[The Great]

Am I supposed to go to a gas station and get air from there or some type of portable air machine??

[RF Overlord]

You need either a portable air compressor or an air tank you can fill at a gas station.

It sounds like it may be simpler to just wait until your new compressor comes in tomorrow.

[The Great]

I knew I was missing something and it isn't coming until Wednesday. I'm just tired of driving back and forth to work on nothing.

[The Great]

I purchased an air tank this morning, filled it up and tried it. It seems like the air just came out and not in the air line.

[RF Overlord]

I may have mis-spoken earlier. You may have to start the engine to get it to trigger. Once the system realizes it's low, you should be able to add air.

I know this works, I've done it twice...it was just a long time ago.

[The Great]

Cool. I'll try again when I get off, I didn't turn the engine all the way on.

[RF Overlord]

Your new compressor arrive yet?

[The Great]

Yep I installed it on Wednesday. Now I have to check the air spring bags for leaks or I'll be doing this all over again soon.

[RF Overlord]

If you replaced the compressor and the back end pumped right up, just shut off the switch in the trunk. If there are any leaks, it'll go back down soon enough.

[The Great]

Ok that's way simpler than spraying the bags down and seeing if bubbles come out lol. If they are, then it's back to Suncore.

[RF Overlord]

"Work smarter, not harder"...or not all!

[The Great]

You're right. Any tips or better ways to do something is always welcome in my book.

[lifespeed]

I have a brand-new set of Arnott air bags for sale. Went with Ford bags instead, but the Arnott's are in perfect condition.

[Stugotz]

I just wanted to add to this. My compressor crapped out also. It is underneath the air filter box. I removed the air box and had good access to the compressor. I pushed in the little white connector at the end of the air line where it goes into the compressor and the air line came right out. I turned the ignition key on and heard the relay for the compressor click on. I then used my garage air hose with a very narrow tip to fill up the rear air shocks. The ass of the car came right up. I then ran to the already open trunk and turned off the air suspension switch. Been driving around like that for a week. Need to do it again tomorrow but it works. Not my idea. Saw it posted on the internet somewhere. Saved my but. Just wanted to share.

[RF Overlord]

to fill up the rear air shocks. Just for clarification, we don't have air shocks. We have air springs and conventional shocks.

[Brian H]

I'm having the same problem, but when I go to manualy pump the bags, I get nothing. Thinking it my be the solenoid's, where are they located and who carries them?

[Turbov6Bryan]

I'm having the same problem, but when I go to manualy pump the bags, I get nothing. Thinking it my be the solenoid's, where are they located and who carries them?

Start a new thread so we can start fresh with your car

Hope to help

[RF Overlord]

The solenoids are on top of the air springs. Arnott sells them, but it's unlikely both went bad at the same time. The RAS module has to be telling them to open before you can pump the springs up manually and there's a specific sequence for that.

[Brian H]

Anybody look into the Suncore brand compressors? looked to be about $100 cheaper, or is that the sign?

[johnjamis]

I just wanted to add to this. My compressor crapped out also. It is underneath the air filter box. I removed the air box and had good access to the compressor. I pushed in the little white connector at the end of the air line where it goes into the compressor and the air line came right out. I turned the ignition key on and heard the relay for the compressor click on. I then used my garage air hose with a very narrow tip to fill up the rear air shocks. The ass of the car came right up. I then ran to the already open trunk and turned off the air suspension switch. Been driving around like that for a week. Need to do it again tomorrow but it works. Not my idea. Saw it posted on the internet somewhere. Saved my but. Just wanted to share.


I just had this same problem with my dead air compressor. This procedure worked, but it took me a while to figure out that the drivers door must also be closed before the system will accept air pressure.

[InglewoodAwk]

Left rear was sagging. Obvios hissing when the compressor turned on. Compressor was kicking on so much that I had to turn the trunk switch off if I wanted the car to start. Felt like I was driving a lowered Honda. Changed out the the bag and solenoid as everything that I saw on the interwebs said that the bags deteriorate and the solenoids leak or bypass. No fix. Took it to my local shade tree mechanic and he said that he couldn’t find it. Disgusted with the fact the he couldn’t find what everyone could hear, I took it to the local Aamco that works on my truck. He couldn’t find it initially but did a “smoke test” and found the line that was leaking. Younger and super stupid me (cir. 2010) was power sliding my Marauder around a turn, bailed on it, caught a curb and took the left rear wheel off. $11k later to put it back together, I got my car back. It looks like one of the repairs was to put DOUBLE/BUBBLE around one of the line fittings between the two sides. The mechanic redid the fittings and we are all good now.

[RF Overlord]

caught a curb and took the left rear wheel off. $11k later to put it back together, I got my car back. Holy Frijoles! Mind telling us exactly what was done for that kind of money?