This procedure covers the replacement of air suspension lines on 2015-2020 Ford F-150 trucks equipped with air suspension systems, typically found on higher trim levels.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Air suspension line assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification - varies by line location
• Air line O-rings or seals × 2 — Often included with line assembly
• Plastic push-connect retaining clips × 2 — Use OEM specification if damaged

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and apply parking brake firmly
2. Place wheel chocks behind wheels that will remain on the ground
3. Turn off ignition and remove key from vehicle
4. Access air suspension control module located under rear seat or in trunk area
5. Locate and turn off the air suspension switch or disconnect air suspension fuse (typically fuse 27 in passenger compartment fuse box) to depressurize system
6. Wait minimum 5 minutes for system to fully depressurize
7. Loosen wheel lug nuts before raising vehicle if wheel removal is required for access

Procedure

1. 1

   Raise and support vehicle
   Raise the vehicle at the appropriate jacking point for the corner where the air line is located. Support with jack stands rated for the vehicle weight. Remove wheel if necessary for access to the air line routing.
2. 2

   Locate damaged air line section
   Identify the specific air line requiring replacement. Air lines run from the air compressor (typically mounted in front of rear axle or under hood) to each air spring. Trace the line to identify both connection points and routing clips. Note any damaged routing clips or brackets for replacement.
3. 3

   Remove plastic protection and routing clips
   Remove any plastic protective covers or underbody shields blocking access to the air line. Release the air line from all routing clips along its path using trim panel tools if necessary. Some clips may be integrated into the frame or body - these should be left in place if the line simply slides through them.
4. 4

   Disconnect air line at air spring
   Locate the push-connect fitting where the air line connects to the air spring (shock absorber). Press the release collar or use the appropriate line disconnect tool to release the fitting. Pull the line straight out from the air spring connection port. Inspect the fitting end for damage to the O-ring or seal.
   ⚠Do not pull or twist the line without properly releasing the push-connect fitting, as this will damage the fitting and O-ring seal.
5. 5

   Disconnect air line at distribution block or compressor
   Follow the air line to its source connection at either the air distribution block or directly at the compressor outlet. Use the line disconnect tool to release the push-connect fitting at this end. Press the release collar and pull the line straight out. If the line connects to a distribution block with a threaded fitting, use the appropriate wrench to loosen the connection counterclockwise.
6. 6

   Remove old air line from vehicle
   Carefully route the old air line out from its installed position, noting the exact routing path for installation of the replacement line. Take photos if necessary to document routing through frame rails, over axle components, and around heat sources or moving parts.
7. 7

   Prepare new air line
   Unpack the new air line assembly and verify it matches the old line in length and fitting types. Inspect both ends for proper O-ring installation and ensure protective caps are removed from fittings. Clean the connection ports on the air spring and distribution block/compressor using a wire brush and shop towels to remove any dirt or corrosion.
   ℹ️Do not apply oil, grease, or petroleum-based lubricants to air line fittings or O-rings, as these can degrade the seals.
8. 8

   Route new air line
   Route the new air line along the exact path of the original line, ensuring it does not contact any sharp edges, heat sources like exhaust components, or moving suspension parts. The line should have adequate slack to accommodate full suspension travel without stretching or kinking. Verify minimum 2-inch clearance from exhaust components.
9. 9

   Connect air line at distribution block or compressor
   Push the air line fitting straight into the connection port at the distribution block or compressor until you feel and hear a distinct click indicating the push-connect collar has locked. Gently pull on the line to verify it is fully seated and locked. If using a threaded connection, hand-tighten first, then torque to specification if provided by Ford (typically 10-15 Nm for air line fittings, though not in provided torque specs).
10. 10

    Connect air line at air spring
    Push the air line fitting straight into the air spring connection port until you hear a click. Verify the connection is secure by pulling gently on the line. The push-connect fitting should be fully engaged and the line should not pull free with moderate force.
11. 11

    Secure air line in routing clips
    Install the air line into all routing clips along its path. Ensure the line is properly seated in each clip and that clips are fully closed or locked. Replace any damaged clips with new OEM clips. Verify the line has no sharp bends (minimum bend radius of 4 inches) and adequate clearance from all moving components through full suspension travel.
12. 12

    Reinstall protective covers and wheel
    Reinstall any underbody shields or protective covers that were removed. If the wheel was removed, install it onto the hub and hand-tighten lug nuts in a star pattern. Lower the vehicle until the tire just contacts the ground but still allows wheel rotation.
    Torque spec

    Wheel Lug Nuts156 Nm (115 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Lower vehicle and final torque
    Lower the vehicle completely to the ground and remove jack stands. Using a torque wrench, tighten wheel lug nuts to specification in a star pattern.
    Torque spec

    Wheel Lug Nuts156 Nm (115 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Verify all connections are secure and properly locked before pressurizing system
2. Ensure no tools or parts have been left in the work area or under the vehicle
3. Confirm air line has proper clearance from exhaust, drivetrain, and suspension components through full travel range

Verification

• Reconnect the air suspension fuse or turn on the air suspension switch
• Start the vehicle and allow the air suspension system to pressurize (may take 30-60 seconds)
• Listen for air leaks at both connection points - you should hear the compressor run briefly then stop
• Apply soapy water solution to all connections and look for bubbles indicating leaks
• Cycle the suspension through its range using the vehicle controls if equipped, or by bouncing each corner of the vehicle
• Verify the affected corner raises to proper ride height and holds pressure
• Check for leaks again after system has been pressurized for 5 minutes
• Test drive the vehicle and verify proper suspension operation and ride height maintenance
• Verify no air suspension warning lights are illuminated on the instrument cluster

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