MSA's 2013 SEMA Project: Black Rhino > Airbag Parts Arrive

Finally...all our airbag components have finally arrived.  Opening these packages were a relief.  The schedule is extremely tight, and we will use every second to complete the project.  We hoped that the airbags would have arrived a week or two ago.  But with the setbacks on the suicide doors, it wasn't a problem to receive them a little later.  The brackets and all the components looked great.  When we finally received the setup, we noticed the back bag brackets weren't correct.  Another kink in the chain.  Somehow there was some miscommunication, and we ordered the incorrect parts.

The rear brackets were made with the bags on the outside of the frame, therefore placing them closer to the wheels.  Not having received wheels yet, we weren't entirely sure this would clear the setup.  Especially since the vehicle will be sporting 24" wheels.  The front brackets were too short and are the setup for 2wd vehicles and not our 4wd.

Grant it, we are able to fabricate our own parts and create a system completely outlandish.  But time wouldn't allow it.  Being a 2014, we were only able to take delivery of the vehicle a month ago.  Purchasing parts that were fabbed for the truck was our quickest route.

So the challenge we face is this.  We cannot cut a hole in the bed, nor can we raise the floor.  BedSlide and BedRug are both listed as sponsors.  Both products must be in the vehicle, and although we are building a custom truck, we want to retain as much of the product's originality as possible.  Then again, this is a 4wd vehicle that has to go LOW.  So the logistics of such as build has been challenging.  We, however, have made forward progress.  The front has been cut, trimmed, and shaved to get it at its lowest point.  When the airbags are fully deflated, the oil pan will sit just a hair above the transfer case.  We have maxed the limits.

No kink that can't be handled.  Just another part of the SEMA woes...  It happens.  Continue to rock on.