'78 Royale | Electro-Level II | Viair Compressor Upgrade?

jay honeycutt

New member
Feb 4, 2000
27
0
0
The Electro-Level II system in my '78 Royale needs an upgrade.

The problem seems to be isolated to one weak compressor (Delco 5049214)
that keeps one side from leveling quickly.

My tech suggests replacing the two aged Delco compressors with a single
Viair compressor, perhaps adding a tank . . . and not tamper with the
wiring/hoses any more than necessary.

And, I see this owner did just that:

https://www.thegmcrv.com/project/air-ride-like-youre-on-a-cloud

A prior list contributor suggested this pump:

https://www.amazon.com/Viair-48043-Chrome-480C-Compressor/dp/B000FQ95J6

I want to minimize the installation time, drama (and my downtime) for the
upgrade . . . so my questions are:

1. can someone provide the precise part numbers for the
fittings/connectors/etc. we need?

2. direct me to a GMC-specific vendor that offers a "turn-key" kit?

Thanks,

Jay
 
http://www.gmcmotorhomemarketplace.com/vasilakes/microlevel_intro.pdf

Dolph Santorine

DE AD0LF

Wheeling, West Virginia

1977 ex-Palm Beach TZE167V100820
Howell EFI/EBL , Reaction Arms, Manny Transmission

>
> The Electro-Level II system in my '78 Royale needs an upgrade.
>
> The problem seems to be isolated to one weak compressor (Delco 5049214)
> that keeps one side from leveling quickly.
>
> My tech suggests replacing the two aged Delco compressors with a single
> Viair compressor, perhaps adding a tank . . . and not tamper with the
> wiring/hoses any more than necessary.
>
> And, I see this owner did just that:
>
> https://www.thegmcrv.com/project/air-ride-like-youre-on-a-cloud
>
> A prior list contributor suggested this pump:
>
> https://www.amazon.com/Viair-48043-Chrome-480C-Compressor/dp/B000FQ95J6
>
> I want to minimize the installation time, drama (and my downtime) for the
> upgrade . . . so my questions are:
>
> 1. can someone provide the precise part numbers for the
> fittings/connectors/etc. we need?
>
> 2. direct me to a GMC-specific vendor that offers a "turn-key" kit?
>
> Thanks,
>
> Jay
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://list.gmcnet.org/mailman/listinfo/gmclist_list.gmcnet.org
 
Thanks for your prompt response. However, my system (controls, levelers,
bags, etc.)
are all working fine.

It is at the compressor(s) that is my ailment.

Jay

On Sun, Jul 19, 2020 at 4:33 PM Adolph Santorine via Gmclist <

> http://www.gmcmotorhomemarketplace.com/vasilakes/microlevel_intro.pdf
>
> Dolph Santorine
>
> DE AD0LF
>
> Wheeling, West Virginia
>
> 1977 ex-Palm Beach TZE167V100820
> Howell EFI/EBL , Reaction Arms, Manny Transmission
>
>
> > On Jul 19, 2020, at 5:24 PM, Jay Honeycutt via Gmclist <

> >
> > The Electro-Level II system in my '78 Royale needs an upgrade.
> >
> > The problem seems to be isolated to one weak compressor (Delco 5049214)
> > that keeps one side from leveling quickly.
> >
> > My tech suggests replacing the two aged Delco compressors with a single
> > Viair compressor, perhaps adding a tank . . . and not tamper with the
> > wiring/hoses any more than necessary.
> >
> > And, I see this owner did just that:
> >
> > https://www.thegmcrv.com/project/air-ride-like-youre-on-a-cloud
> >
> > A prior list contributor suggested this pump:
> >
> > https://www.amazon.com/Viair-48043-Chrome-480C-Compressor/dp/B000FQ95J6
> >
> > I want to minimize the installation time, drama (and my downtime) for the
> > upgrade . . . so my questions are:
> >
> > 1. can someone provide the precise part numbers for the
> > fittings/connectors/etc. we need?
> >
> > 2. direct me to a GMC-specific vendor that offers a "turn-key" kit?
> >
> > Thanks,
> >
> > Jay
> > _______________________________________________
> > GMCnet mailing list
> > Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> > http://list.gmcnet.org/mailman/listinfo/gmclist_list.gmcnet.org
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://list.gmcnet.org/mailman/listinfo/gmclist_list.gmcnet.org
>
 
> Thanks for your prompt response. However, my system (controls, levelers, bags, etc.) are all working fine.
>
> It is at the compressor(s) that is my ailment.
>
> Jay

Jay,

I have had very little to do with EL2, but what I do know is that the compressors are not stand alone unit. While the compressor does include a
valve, there is another valve added to the Cadillac version to make it work for the GMC level control. If you can decode all of that, changing to a
new and better pair of compressors should not be all that difficult.

I suggest that you talk to Kieth Vasalakes(sp) about your plan as he put a lot of study into all the systems.

Matt
--
Matt & Mary Colie - '73 Glacier 23 - Members GMCMI, GMCGL, GMCES
Electronically Controlled Quiet Engine Cooling Fan
OE Rear Drum Brakes with Applied Control Arms
SE Michigan - Twixt A2 and Detroit
 
The easiest and cheapest thing to do is just replace the bad compressor. The exact replacement compressors are available at many salvage yards for just a few bucks, and can also be found as rebuilt units.
 
Jay, I also have a 78 EL II. The motors in the compressors field windings
are permanent Aluminum/Nickel/Cobalt magnets, that over time, lose their
strength. That weakens the compressors power. All of these motors are
nearing the end of their useful life. Swapping one for the other is
probably going to result in equal performance to what you have presently.
Band Aid fix at best, waste of time at the worst. Your choice.
Jim Hupy
Salem, Oregon

On Sun, Jul 19, 2020, 9:36 PM Dave Stragand via Gmclist <

> The easiest and cheapest thing to do is just replace the bad compressor.
> The exact replacement compressors are available at many salvage yards for
> just a few bucks, and can also be found as rebuilt units.
>
> From http://gmcws.org/Tech/junkyardgems/index.htm
>
> “Air Compressor Electro Level II:
> Available from most 70s and 80s Buick Riviera, Cadillac Eldorado or
> Seville, and other GM luxury cars with rear air suspension. Direct
> replacement without modifications. Mounted on left front fender.”
>
> -Dave
> 1978 Transmode near Pittsburgh
>
> > On Jul 19, 2020, at 5:24 PM, Jay Honeycutt via Gmclist <

> >
> > The Electro-Level II system in my '78 Royale needs an upgrade.
> >
> > The problem seems to be isolated to one weak compressor (Delco 5049214)
> > that keeps one side from leveling quickly.
> >
> > My tech suggests replacing the two aged Delco compressors with a single
> > Viair compressor, perhaps adding a tank . . . and not tamper with the
> > wiring/hoses any more than necessary.
> >
> > And, I see this owner did just that:
> >
> > https://www.thegmcrv.com/project/air-ride-like-youre-on-a-cloud
> >
> > A prior list contributor suggested this pump:
> >
> > https://www.amazon.com/Viair-48043-Chrome-480C-Compressor/dp/B000FQ95J6
> >
> > I want to minimize the installation time, drama (and my downtime) for the
> > upgrade . . . so my questions are:
> >
> > 1. can someone provide the precise part numbers for the
> > fittings/connectors/etc. we need?
> >
> > 2. direct me to a GMC-specific vendor that offers a "turn-key" kit?
> >
> > Thanks,
> >
> > Jay
> > _______________________________________________
> > GMCnet mailing list
> > Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> > http://list.gmcnet.org/mailman/listinfo/gmclist_list.gmcnet.org
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://list.gmcnet.org/mailman/listinfo/gmclist_list.gmcnet.org
>
 
Jim, have you checked out any of the newer Cadillac compressors? The motor on a 2005 looks like it might possibly swap right in, if not the whole assembly. Might be worth a little experimenting. The newest assemblies look like they might be adaptable as well.

Here’s one example on eBay
https://www.ebay.com/itm/274109448342

-Dave
1978 Transmode near Pittsburgh

>
> Jay, I also have a 78 EL II. The motors in the compressors field windings
> are permanent Aluminum/Nickel/Cobalt magnets, that over time, lose their
> strength. That weakens the compressors power. All of these motors are
> nearing the end of their useful life. Swapping one for the other is
> probably going to result in equal performance to what you have presently.
> Band Aid fix at best, waste of time at the worst. Your choice.
> Jim Hupy
> Salem, Oregon
>
>> On Sun, Jul 19, 2020, 9:36 PM Dave Stragand via Gmclist <

>>
>> The easiest and cheapest thing to do is just replace the bad compressor.
>> The exact replacement compressors are available at many salvage yards for
>> just a few bucks, and can also be found as rebuilt units.
>>
>> From http://gmcws.org/Tech/junkyardgems/index.htm
>>
>> “Air Compressor Electro Level II:
>> Available from most 70s and 80s Buick Riviera, Cadillac Eldorado or
>> Seville, and other GM luxury cars with rear air suspension. Direct
>> replacement without modifications. Mounted on left front fender.”
>>
>> -Dave
>> 1978 Transmode near Pittsburgh
>>
>>> On Jul 19, 2020, at 5:24 PM, Jay Honeycutt via Gmclist <

>>>
>>> The Electro-Level II system in my '78 Royale needs an upgrade.
>>>
>>> The problem seems to be isolated to one weak compressor (Delco 5049214)
>>> that keeps one side from leveling quickly.
>>>
>>> My tech suggests replacing the two aged Delco compressors with a single
>>> Viair compressor, perhaps adding a tank . . . and not tamper with the
>>> wiring/hoses any more than necessary.
>>>
>>> And, I see this owner did just that:
>>>
>>> https://www.thegmcrv.com/project/air-ride-like-youre-on-a-cloud
>>>
>>> A prior list contributor suggested this pump:
>>>
>>> https://www.amazon.com/Viair-48043-Chrome-480C-Compressor/dp/B000FQ95J6
>>>
>>> I want to minimize the installation time, drama (and my downtime) for the
>>> upgrade . . . so my questions are:
>>>
>>> 1. can someone provide the precise part numbers for the
>>> fittings/connectors/etc. we need?
>>>
>>> 2. direct me to a GMC-specific vendor that offers a "turn-key" kit?
>>>
>>> Thanks,
>>>
>>> Jay
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> GMCnet mailing list
>>> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
>>> http://list.gmcnet.org/mailman/listinfo/gmclist_list.gmcnet.org
>> _______________________________________________
>> GMCnet mailing list
>> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
>> http://list.gmcnet.org/mailman/listinfo/gmclist_list.gmcnet.org
>>
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://list.gmcnet.org/mailman/listinfo/gmclist_list.gmcnet.org
 
I really appreciate the prompt and detailed guidance.

However, I tend toward Jim's suggestion. I have had a devil of a time
finding the necessary skills to diagnose and replace my system . . . at
home, with no deadline, and no rain. I can't imagine the hassle of dealing
with it out in the desert or rainy woods.

I would much prefer a new system that I need not worry about for another 40
years.

Regards,

Jay



On Mon, Jul 20, 2020 at 7:22 AM Dave Stragand via Gmclist <

> Jim, have you checked out any of the newer Cadillac compressors? The
> motor on a 2005 looks like it might possibly swap right in, if not the
> whole assembly. Might be worth a little experimenting. The newest
> assemblies look like they might be adaptable as well.
>
> Here’s one example on eBay
> https://www.ebay.com/itm/274109448342
>
> -Dave
> 1978 Transmode near Pittsburgh
>
> > On Jul 20, 2020, at 1:42 AM, James Hupy via Gmclist <

> >
> > Jay, I also have a 78 EL II. The motors in the compressors field
> windings
> > are permanent Aluminum/Nickel/Cobalt magnets, that over time, lose their
> > strength. That weakens the compressors power. All of these motors are
> > nearing the end of their useful life. Swapping one for the other is
> > probably going to result in equal performance to what you have presently.
> > Band Aid fix at best, waste of time at the worst. Your choice.
> > Jim Hupy
> > Salem, Oregon
> >
> >> On Sun, Jul 19, 2020, 9:36 PM Dave Stragand via Gmclist <

> >>
> >> The easiest and cheapest thing to do is just replace the bad compressor.
> >> The exact replacement compressors are available at many salvage yards
> for
> >> just a few bucks, and can also be found as rebuilt units.
> >>
> >> From http://gmcws.org/Tech/junkyardgems/index.htm
> >>
> >> “Air Compressor Electro Level II:
> >> Available from most 70s and 80s Buick Riviera, Cadillac Eldorado or
> >> Seville, and other GM luxury cars with rear air suspension. Direct
> >> replacement without modifications. Mounted on left front fender.”
> >>
> >> -Dave
> >> 1978 Transmode near Pittsburgh
> >>
> >>> On Jul 19, 2020, at 5:24 PM, Jay Honeycutt via Gmclist <

> >>>
> >>> The Electro-Level II system in my '78 Royale needs an upgrade.
> >>>
> >>> The problem seems to be isolated to one weak compressor (Delco 5049214)
> >>> that keeps one side from leveling quickly.
> >>>
> >>> My tech suggests replacing the two aged Delco compressors with a single
> >>> Viair compressor, perhaps adding a tank . . . and not tamper with the
> >>> wiring/hoses any more than necessary.
> >>>
> >>> And, I see this owner did just that:
> >>>
> >>> https://www.thegmcrv.com/project/air-ride-like-youre-on-a-cloud
> >>>
> >>> A prior list contributor suggested this pump:
> >>>
> >>>
> https://www.amazon.com/Viair-48043-Chrome-480C-Compressor/dp/B000FQ95J6
> >>>
> >>> I want to minimize the installation time, drama (and my downtime) for
> the
> >>> upgrade . . . so my questions are:
> >>>
> >>> 1. can someone provide the precise part numbers for the
> >>> fittings/connectors/etc. we need?
> >>>
> >>> 2. direct me to a GMC-specific vendor that offers a "turn-key" kit?
> >>>
> >>> Thanks,
> >>>
> >>> Jay
> >>> _______________________________________________
> >>> GMCnet mailing list
> >>> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> >>> http://list.gmcnet.org/mailman/listinfo/gmclist_list.gmcnet.org
> >> _______________________________________________
> >> GMCnet mailing list
> >> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> >> http://list.gmcnet.org/mailman/listinfo/gmclist_list.gmcnet.org
> >>
> > _______________________________________________
> > GMCnet mailing list
> > Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> > http://list.gmcnet.org/mailman/listinfo/gmclist_list.gmcnet.org
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://list.gmcnet.org/mailman/listinfo/gmclist_list.gmcnet.org
>
 
as much as I'd like to sell another MicroLevel, my suggestion would be to call Jim K at Applied GMC.
Get 2 new compressors as the second one is probably worse than you think it is.
Jim will be able to set you up with as much of a 'Kit' as you could hope for AND would be able to do tech support.

If you live in California near freemont they can even do the work for you.
Or Jim Bounds at the GMC coop can do it too
________________________________
From: Gmclist on behalf of Jay Honeycutt via Gmclist
Sent: Monday, July 20, 2020 1:17 PM
To: gmclist
Cc: Jay Honeycutt
Subject: Re: [GMCnet] '78 Royale | Electro-Level II | Viair Compressor Upgrade?

I really appreciate the prompt and detailed guidance.

However, I tend toward Jim's suggestion. I have had a devil of a time
finding the necessary skills to diagnose and replace my system . . . at
home, with no deadline, and no rain. I can't imagine the hassle of dealing
with it out in the desert or rainy woods.

I would much prefer a new system that I need not worry about for another 40
years.

Regards,

Jay



On Mon, Jul 20, 2020 at 7:22 AM Dave Stragand via Gmclist <

> Jim, have you checked out any of the newer Cadillac compressors? The
> motor on a 2005 looks like it might possibly swap right in, if not the
> whole assembly. Might be worth a little experimenting. The newest
> assemblies look like they might be adaptable as well.
>
> Here’s one example on eBay
> https://www.ebay.com/itm/274109448342
>
> -Dave
> 1978 Transmode near Pittsburgh
>
> > On Jul 20, 2020, at 1:42 AM, James Hupy via Gmclist <

> >
> > Jay, I also have a 78 EL II. The motors in the compressors field
> windings
> > are permanent Aluminum/Nickel/Cobalt magnets, that over time, lose their
> > strength. That weakens the compressors power. All of these motors are
> > nearing the end of their useful life. Swapping one for the other is
> > probably going to result in equal performance to what you have presently.
> > Band Aid fix at best, waste of time at the worst. Your choice.
> > Jim Hupy
> > Salem, Oregon
> >
> >> On Sun, Jul 19, 2020, 9:36 PM Dave Stragand via Gmclist <

> >>
> >> The easiest and cheapest thing to do is just replace the bad compressor.
> >> The exact replacement compressors are available at many salvage yards
> for
> >> just a few bucks, and can also be found as rebuilt units.
> >>
> >> From http://gmcws.org/Tech/junkyardgems/index.htm
> >>
> >> “Air Compressor Electro Level II:
> >> Available from most 70s and 80s Buick Riviera, Cadillac Eldorado or
> >> Seville, and other GM luxury cars with rear air suspension. Direct
> >> replacement without modifications. Mounted on left front fender.”
> >>
> >> -Dave
> >> 1978 Transmode near Pittsburgh
> >>
> >>> On Jul 19, 2020, at 5:24 PM, Jay Honeycutt via Gmclist <

> >>>
> >>> The Electro-Level II system in my '78 Royale needs an upgrade.
> >>>
> >>> The problem seems to be isolated to one weak compressor (Delco 5049214)
> >>> that keeps one side from leveling quickly.
> >>>
> >>> My tech suggests replacing the two aged Delco compressors with a single
> >>> Viair compressor, perhaps adding a tank . . . and not tamper with the
> >>> wiring/hoses any more than necessary.
> >>>
> >>> And, I see this owner did just that:
> >>>
> >>> https://www.thegmcrv.com/project/air-ride-like-youre-on-a-cloud
> >>>
> >>> A prior list contributor suggested this pump:
> >>>
> >>>
> https://www.amazon.com/Viair-48043-Chrome-480C-Compressor/dp/B000FQ95J6
> >>>
> >>> I want to minimize the installation time, drama (and my downtime) for
> the
> >>> upgrade . . . so my questions are:
> >>>
> >>> 1. can someone provide the precise part numbers for the
> >>> fittings/connectors/etc. we need?
> >>>
> >>> 2. direct me to a GMC-specific vendor that offers a "turn-key" kit?
> >>>
> >>> Thanks,
> >>>
> >>> Jay
> >>> _______________________________________________
> >>> GMCnet mailing list
> >>> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> >>> http://list.gmcnet.org/mailman/listinfo/gmclist_list.gmcnet.org
> >> _______________________________________________
> >> GMCnet mailing list
> >> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> >> http://list.gmcnet.org/mailman/listinfo/gmclist_list.gmcnet.org
> >>
> > _______________________________________________
> > GMCnet mailing list
> > Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> > http://list.gmcnet.org/mailman/listinfo/gmclist_list.gmcnet.org
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://list.gmcnet.org/mailman/listinfo/gmclist_list.gmcnet.org
>
_______________________________________________
GMCnet mailing list
Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
http://list.gmcnet.org/mailman/listinfo/gmclist_list.gmcnet.org
 
Just replace the motor or compressor and be done with it. Changing to a home brew tank system will involve non-standard modifications that can drive
you crazy. In the future and no one will be able to help you because we will not now how it was butchered up to get the job done. I run into this
all the time on GMC electrical things. Someone modified the wiring and then later no one knows how it is suppose to work.
--
Ken Burton - N9KB
76 Palm Beach
Hebron, Indiana