aftermarket air suspension
Aftermarket Air Suspension

Configuring and Adjusting Your New Air Suspension on Your Car

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What does an air suspension kit offer on installation?

– Better vehicle control

– More efficiency

– Comfort during driving

– Effective versatility

– Less or no shocks

Only real car enthusiasts tend to squeeze every last bit of its performance. We meet those wanderlust guys each day. When you install an air suspension, the work doesn’t end at the instalments only. Only the real geeks understand the issues, especially when they want to have a personalised comfort position.

The idea goes like this-How can I put my Volkswagen’s sub-frame on the ground, making it roar on the road?

In this article, we are talking solely about the technical part of air suspension, so if you’re a pro player in the game, stay. If you’re a new guy or less technical person, the article may be confusing on first read.

With all that is said, let’s dive deep.

Why You Should Not Apply One For All Instalment Setting? 

First, understand that there’s no ideal setting fit-for-all. The idea of picking up the right comfortable standard makes it super personal. Only you can decide what suits your driving the best. If you have spent nights experimenting with your wrench, congratulations, you’re on the right path. 

In this article, we will discuss a few major factors that would personalise your driving, which are: 

  • Spring Pressure
  • Damping Settings
  • Anti-Roll Bars
  • End Links
  • Design of the Suspension

Spring Pressure and Its Impact on Ride Quality: 

Spring Pressure is a special beneficiary only available to the Air Suspension system. Spring pressure allows the vehicle to get the right ride height by increasing the pressure. The air spring gets stiffer with the insertion of air and release of it. 

Having control over the air pressure gives you flexibility to change the ride height as desired. 

The ride height and amount of pressure needed to depend on the suspension design and what kind of vehicle you’re driving. An ideal spring pressure varies from one to the next.

1. Adjusting Air Springs: 

Suppose you have got a vehicle, directly from the garage and so you have decided not to customise the suspension setting, such as Lower Mounts or Spring Perches. 

Though you have checked and customised the vehicle’s height aesthetically and what seems good to you. 

Now the test drive! 

While test-driving the vehicle, you will see the real difference between what you imagined is right and what would be the real deal. 

You feel that the springs are softer. So your car has too much baby roll. You increase the air spring pressure and find the perfect firmness of the suspension. 

When you return to your home, you find your vehicle’s height is increased and has more wheel gap. 

No worries. Note that. That’s your personal four corner air spring pressure. 

When parking or shutting off your car, shorten the suspension to get back to its original state.

Seems your wrench will have a lot of tasks to complete.

( Also Read More – Exploring the Necessity of Airbag Suspension for Towing Heavy and Uneven Loads )

2. Damping Settings: 

Damping can be controlled by setting up a shock absorber. Inside the shock absorber system, there is a small orifice whose job is to restrict the flow of fluid during compression and rebound strokes. This restriction gives the desired damping. 

The modern damping control mechanism involves a shock absorber with an orifice valve and a damping adjustment knob. 

The adjustment knob controls the size of the orifice which restricts the hydraulic fluid flow, respectively. The smaller the orifice, the greater restrictions there will be. 

But how does damping work in reality? 

Whenever your vehicle hits a bump on the road, it experiences a shock, the spring will happily continue contracting and expanding, proceeding to release the energy for a long time after the bump. This is an example of underdamped. 

On the other hand, the extreme opposite of an overdamped situation is also not favorable for a vehicle. In that case, the suspension loses its ability to come back to its original position.

3. Anti-Roll Bars:

Anti-roll bars connect the left and right sides of the suspension. It minimises body roll every time you corner your vehicle. 

You, as per your comfort, can adjust the stiffness of the anti-roll bars, which will offer better control & support, especially during sharp turns on the roads. 

A soft setting allows for more flexibility and body roll, which offer a smoother ride. On the other hand, a stiffer setting offers less control to you and offers stability during cornering. 

Anti-roll bars affect the vehicle’s handling and tailor it to your preferences.

4. End Links: 

End Links connect anti-roll bars to the suspension components. The end link length can alter the preload on the anti-roll bars, which affects their efficiency of controlling body roll. 

Shorter end links increase preload and make anti-rolls stiffer whereas longer end links make them softer & flexible.

5. Design of the Suspension: 

The overall design of the suspension you’re using affects the whole idea of the suspension process. It involves air spring types, shock absorbers, and control algorithms which heavily personalise the comfort & control of driving. 

Modern suspension systems also include some advanced features, such as 

  1. Automatic adjustable ride height facility. 
  2. Advanced systems for different driving modes – comfort, eco, sport etc. for different conditions.

Understand the variations of different air suspension components, and you can modify them to get your personalised suspension comfort.

 Conclusion: 

Air suspension systems are subjective to people’s personal choices and the best experience will always be your personalised one, catered only to you.  

But how can you achieve it? 

In this article, we have discussed the air spring adjustment, damping settings, anti-roll bars, end link, and most importantly, design of the suspension system. 

Understanding each one of them and adjusting them to your personal comfort will give you the best experience of driving ever. 

air bag suspension
Aftermarket Air Suspension

Exploring the Necessity of Airbag Suspension for Towing Heavy and Uneven Loads

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Introduction:

Towing heavy and uneven loads poses unique challenges for vehicles, particularly in terms of stability, control, and ride comfort. Traditional suspension systems may struggle to adequately support the weight and maintain a level ride height, leading to uneven tire wear, reduced handling, and increased risk of accidents. In recent years, airbag suspension systems have gained popularity as a solution to these challenges, offering adjustable support and improved ride quality. However, the question remains: Is airbag suspension necessary when towing heavy and uneven loads? In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the factors influencing this decision and examine the benefits and considerations of airbag suspension in towing scenarios.

Understanding the Challenges of Towing Heavy and Uneven Loads:

Towing heavy loads places additional strain on a vehicle’s suspension system, affecting its ability to maintain stability and control. Uneven loads further exacerbate these challenges by causing weight distribution issues, which can lead to sagging rear ends, excessive bouncing, and reduced traction. Traditional leaf spring or coil spring suspensions may struggle to adequately support the weight and adjust to varying load conditions, resulting in suboptimal performance and safety risks.

The Role of Airbag Suspension Systems:

Airbag suspension systems offer a versatile alternative to traditional suspension setups, utilizing air-filled bags to support the vehicle’s weight and adjust ride height as needed. These systems provide several advantages in towing applications, including:

1. Adjustable Load Support:

Airbag suspension systems allow drivers to adjust the air pressure in the bags to accommodate varying load weights and distributions. This enables the vehicle to maintain a level ride height, ensuring optimal stability and control, even when towing heavy or uneven loads.

2. Improved Ride Quality:

By absorbing road shocks and vibrations more effectively than traditional suspensions, airbag systems enhance ride comfort for both the driver and passengers. This is particularly beneficial when towing heavy loads over long distances, reducing driver fatigue and improving overall comfort.

3. Enhanced Handling:

Airbag suspension systems help improve vehicle handling and stability by minimizing body roll and sway, especially when navigating curves or uneven terrain. This contributes to safer towing experiences and reduces the risk of accidents caused by loss of control.

(Also Read More – The Most Common Air Suspension Problems and How to Fix Them)

Factors to Consider:

While airbag suspension systems offer compelling benefits for towing heavy and uneven loads, several factors must be considered before making a decision:

1. Cost:

Airbag suspension systems tend to be more expensive upfront than traditional suspensions, both in terms of initial purchase and installation costs. However, many drivers find the long-term benefits outweigh the initial investment, particularly if they frequently tow heavy loads or prioritize ride comfort.

2. Maintenance Requirements:

Airbag suspension systems require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and reliability. This includes monitoring air pressure levels, inspecting for leaks or damage, and replacing worn components as needed. While maintenance tasks are relatively straightforward, they add an additional level of responsibility for vehicle owners.

3. Compatibility:

Not all vehicles are compatible with airbag suspension systems, and retrofitting may require modifications to the vehicle’s chassis or suspension components. Before investing in an airbag suspension, it’s essential to verify compatibility with the vehicle manufacturer or consult with a professional installer.

4. Legal Considerations:

Some jurisdictions may have specific regulations or restrictions regarding the use of airbag suspension systems, particularly in commercial or heavy-duty towing applications. It’s important to familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations to ensure compliance and avoid potential fines or penalties.

Case Studies and Testimonials:

Many drivers who have opted for airbag suspension systems for towing heavy and uneven loads report significant improvements in performance, safety, and comfort. Case studies and testimonials from satisfied customers highlight the following benefits:

  • Increased towing capacity and stability, allowing for safer and more confident towing experiences.
  • Improved ride quality and reduced driver fatigue, particularly during long-distance hauling.
  • Enhanced control and maneuverability, especially when navigating challenging terrain or adverse weather conditions.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, while airbag suspension systems are not strictly necessary for towing heavy and uneven loads, they offer significant benefits in terms of stability, control, and ride comfort. For drivers who frequently tow heavy loads or prioritize a smooth towing experience, investing in an airbag suspension system may be a worthwhile consideration. However, it’s essential to weigh the costs, maintenance requirements, and compatibility factors before making a decision. Ultimately, the choice between traditional and airbag suspension systems depends on individual preferences, budget constraints, and towing needs.

General Discussions

Your Step-By-Step Guide to Lowering Your Vehicle’s Suspension

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Are you ready to take your car to the next level in terms of performance and style? Lower the suspension height on your car to notice a noticeable difference. It enhances your vehicle’s appearance, significantly improving handling and the overall driving experience.

This comprehensive post provides an in-depth analysis of the process of lowering car suspension, covering everything from the reasoning behind the action to the actions that must be taken.

What justification exists for the vehicle’s suspension system being smaller?

It is usually a good idea to talk about the benefits and reasons for lowering a car’s suspension system before getting into the mechanics of how to do it. The car’s suspension system must be reduced by shortening the distance between the chassis and the road. There are several explanations for this transition, some of which are as follows:

  •  Your car will corner more steadily and responsively when its centre of gravity is lower, providing the feeling that it is more solidly anchored to the road.
  • Your car’s visual appeal may rise if the suspension is lowered to give it a more aggressive and sleek appearance. The suspension can be reduced to do this.
  • Lowering the vehicle can lessen air resistance and enhance performance and fuel economy.
  • Customizing your car’s suspension gives it a unique and distinctive look that reflects your style and posture.

Check complete Air Suspension kits for Cars

Techniques for Lowering a Car’s Suspension

If you’re a car enthusiast or want to improve your car’s looks and performance, you’ve considered lowering your vehicle’s suspension. Reducing a car’s suspension has become increasingly popular because it provides so many benefits for the vehicle’s handling, look, and overall driving experience.

We shall get into the details of lowering an automobile’s suspension in the following parts. Now, let’s get things started:

What Do Coil-overs And Coil Springs Mean?

Coil-overs and coil springs are two common choices for lowering an automobile’s suspension. Coil springs and shock absorbers are combined into one unit in coil-overs, an adjustable device. They enable you to customize the vehicle to your preferences and the driving environment by allowing you to change the ride height, damping, and stiffness. If you swap out the OEM coil springs for shorter ones, you might achieve a comparable outcome if less adjustment is needed.

What Do Coil-overs And Coil Springs Mean?

Lowering links, or drop links, is a simple and affordable way to reduce an automobile’s suspension. This refers to the moveable parts that attach the suspension to the chassis. You may adjust the height of your car’s ride by changing the length of these links.The Process 

Applied to the Suspension System’s Lowering via Coil Springs

Gathering the necessary parts is the first step and includes coil springs, a jack, jack stands, wrenches, and a spring compressor. Here are the steps that you can follow:

● Firstly, and above all, security. You should use the parking brake once your automobile is levelled. Put on your safety gear, please.

● Lift the car off the ground with the jack and use jack supports to secure it. You will be able to raise the vehicle as a result.

● Take off the wheels to make room for the suspension’s parts.

● Make sure to use the spring compressor to remove the old springs securely.

● Replace the shorter, outdated springs. Then, put everything back together by using the opposite method.

● This process is employed to reduce the suspension system’s height. They use coil springs.

Hanging with Air

In air suspension systems, an air spring or airbag is used instead of a metal spring (coil or leaf), which helps support the car on the axles. An air suspension system is another name for this kind of suspension system. You may effortlessly transition between a sporty and relaxing ride using these systems by touching a button. You may change the dampening and ride height to fit your needs. Considering this, one more technology that may be applied to lower the car’s height is the “air suspension system”.

Pumps with Hydraulic Action:

Hydraulic suspension systems use hydraulic cylinders to change the ride height. These devices can be used to manage the suspension’s behaviour precisely. They can also be used to achieve a shallow stance if necessary. However, they are sometimes more intricate and can require the installation of expert assistance.

Sprouts of Spring Leaf Springs: 

Usually found on trucks and older cars, these springs can be adjusted to reduce a vehicle’s ground clearance. This calls for removing or altering particular leaves from the spring pack to provide the required drop. (Heavy Duty Truck Air Bags)

Lowering the Height of the Torsion Bar

Torsion bar suspensions come on some cars, which can be adjusted to lower the vehicle. Torsion bars are frequently tightened to lower the ride height. Nonetheless, it is crucial to maintain the alignment correctly and to keep the suspension geometry within safe bounds.

Concluding Remarks and Analysis

This modification may significantly affect your car’s handling, appearance, and performance. One example would be to lower your car’s suspension. Whether you choose coilovers, air suspension, or any other type of suspension, it is essential to weigh the benefits and drawbacks, assess your driving style, and prioritize safety. If you take the proper steps and, if necessary, consult a motor vehicle professional, you can achieve the optimal driving posture and utterly enhance your driving experience.

General Discussions

The Most Common Air Suspension Problems and How to Fix Them

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Air suspension system drastically improves your vehicle’s ability, control, and performance. The whole mechanics of the suspension system work on air-filled tubes and electronic circuits which control them. This new suspension system is ideal as heavy-duty vehicles and sports cars use it to optimise their performances. However, nonetheless, you will see some very burning problems in the air suspension system. They are very common and in most cases, each owner goes through that one day. See if you’re facing one of these issues or not. Read the article completely and get these. 

– Common problems in the air suspension system & their respective solutions. 

How to Find Out Whether Your Air Suspension Has Gone Wrong? 

The only work of an air suspension system is to balance the vehicle of its weight and optimize its speed & performance. The very simplest effect you will notice is a sudden drop in the performance of the car. You will also feel discomfort while driving or losing the grip while turning the vehicle at sharp turns. However, here we are listing down some of the most common symptoms of a faulty air suspensions. 

– Uneven ride height 

– Rough handling 

– Hearing extreme noises from the suspension

– Losing balance in sharp turns. 

– Sagging on one side when the load is heavier than usual. 

– Stuck on bumps or potholes. 

– Airbag leakages

Also Read More – What You Need to Know About Air Bag Suspension?

Common Air Suspension System Problems and Solutions: 

If you have been noticing such symptoms for quite some time then you should start thinking about repairing your air suspension system. The next step however is to find what’s wrong. The simplest answer would be to go to a mechanic and ask him/her to solve it. But well, whom we are talking to! For passionate car lovers like us, things should be more dramatic. Let’s find some of the most common failure points of air suspension issues and how to solve them. 

Most Common Failure Points of Air Suspension System are as follows

– Air Spring

– AIR Dryer

– Compressor

– Airlines 

1. Air Leakage: 

The most common problem in an air suspension system is leaking airbags. If you know the working model of an air suspension system, you know what we are talking about. The air suspension system uses airbags instead of springs to resist uneven driving & load management. A compressor controlling the air passage fills the airbags whenever needed. 

Sometimes the airbags start leaking or malfunctioning. This causes air to pass by that leakage if there’s only one. The airbags can’t create resistance to uneven roads. In most of the cases, the O-ring gets damaged or might fall as well. 

All you need to do is to check the airbags for any leakages. If they are small in size, you can patch them but if they are large, you would need to replace the airbags. 

2. Defective Air Lines: 

The compressor uses airlines to fill the airbags. The compressor draws air from the environment and compresses air into the bags to make them bouncy. If you’re feeling uneven height & problems while balancing the vehicle, the airlines may have been clogged or broken. 

Broken or clogged airlines will not let the air pass into airbags causing them to lose balance. In most cases, this happens due to overheating in the suspension system. 

While inspecting the air suspension system, look for broken or clogged airlines. Remove them from the system and check the severity of their damage. If needed, replace them. 

3. Loose Electrical Connection: 

Today’s cars have automatic air suspension systems controlled by sensors & electrical wires. These wires connect air suspension components and control them dynamically. These connections become loose with time. There’s a possibility of them breaking down as well. More to it, the electric fuses can go faulty which can cause faults in the Electronic Control Module. 

Check the electric cables carefully. If you find any loose connections, fix them immediately. If they have been broken, you need to replace them. In case of a faulty fuse, the only option left is replacement. 

4. Malfunctioning Ride Height Sensor: 

Smart air suspension system has height sensors to determine the dynamic height of the vehicle from the road. It sends signals to the ECM of the vehicle and starts operating the air suspension functioning. These sensors send signals throughout the drive and the air suspension controls the air accordingly. This is why you drive safely on both kinds of roads, bumpy & smooth. 

When these sensors go faulty, they can send ECM wrong signals. Those inaccurate signals cause inappropriate leveling which further causes discomfort & imbalance. 

First, locate the height sensors in your vehicle. It must be present in the strut assembly. If you see them faulty or worn out, the only way is to replace them. 

Read More – Custom Air Bag Suspension Kits

5. Faulty Air Compressor: 

An air compressor is the heart of an air suspension system. It compresses the air and passes it to airbags. Bouncy airbags make your driving smooth & comfortable. While the compressor is a vital organ of air suspension, the chances of it going faulty or damaged are also very high. It can be worn out with time or by any accident. 

A damaged air compressor doesn’t send air to airbags. As a result, you feel an imbalance during the drive. There are numerous reasons behind the malfunctioning of the air compressor. This is due to several components present in the compressor only. These components are air filters, relief valves, pumps, check valves, relays, etc. 

While checking for the faults, you must check the entire compressor system. If any of its components have worn out, you must replace it without a second thought. 

Also, Check Air Bag Suspension lift kits for trucks

6. Faulty Electronic Control Module: 

The Electronic Control Module is the device that catches the signals of the sensors and acts on them. It electronically operates the compressor and controls the right air pressure. This guides the compressor to create the right pressure inside the airbag. When the ECM starts malfunctioning, the air suspension will also not work properly. 

If you have checked all the other issues mentioned above, the problem can be a faulty ECM. This is a serious issue and needs expertise. So we request you to go to your nearby mechanic and ask him/her to repair it or replace it if needed. 

Conclusion: 

Modern air suspension systems are electronically equipped with sensors, gears, automatic compressors, etc. Air suspension kits are great for improving your vehicle’s performance instantly. However, there are several very common faults you may see over time. In this article, we have covered the most common problems in air suspension systems and how to solve them. If you’re facing issues in driving your vehicle, you should check for your air suspension malfunctioning as we mentioned above. 

General Discussions

What You Need to Know About Air Bag Suspension?

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Airbag suspension is an advanced replacement for traditional metal spring suspensions. Instead of the metal spring to counter the bumps and variables, air suspension uses airbags in each tire of the vehicle to balance.

The air suspension system uses a compressor to suck air from the environment and sends them to airbags. The airbags give sustainability and flexibility to the vehicle against weight & uneven roads. Also, the driver enjoys more comfort & better control moving around the corners. 

Read More – Problems Using Air Suspension and How to Solve Them?

Parts of an Air Bag Suspension System: 

Earlier air suspension systems were manually controlled. But after the technology revolution, the air suspension system got a fine update with an electronic smart system to control the air pressure. Here are some of the parts of a modern air suspension system. 

– Compressor

– Height Sensors

– Air Suspension control system

– Air reservoir

– Valve Blocks

– Air Spring Bags

– Plumbing Lines

Air Bag Suspension System Working Process:

The air suspension system uses airbags instead of metal springs. The airbag system came into existence to counter the vehicle’s heavyweight. Traditional metal springs didn’t work ideally in such situations. Though they offered some consolation, people used to have difficulty controlling the vehicle. Air suspension clears the path for more control and comfort. 

  1. The compressors suck air from the surroundings and reserve it to the reservoir. 
  2. As the height sensors send signals to the ECM, they let the air pass through the high-control valves. 
  3. The HCV linkage moves according to the weight you put on the vehicle. Simultaneously, the air passes through the valves, sir pipes, and supply lines. 
  4. Pressurised air inflates the airbags and fills them to the required height. 
  5. Once the airbags reach the required pressure, the HCV valve stops sending any more air. 
  6. The axles reach their original state once the weight is removed. 
  7. Airbags use exhaust ports of the vehicle to release the pressurised air. 
  8. The system automatically locks the exhaust ports after releasing the air while leaving an accurate ride level. 

Types of Air Bag Suspension System: 

Air suspension system comes in the following two types. They come in different kits for different vehicle models. Based on your requirements, you can choose any one of them for your vehicle’s performance and comfort.

Sleeve Style Air Spring: 

This type of air suspension system has an automatic sleeve system. Its one end gets folded automatically when it is compressed. Similarly, when the ride height increases, it automatically rises. They are mostly present in light-duty trucks and SUVs. 

Convoluted Air Spring: 

They look like balloons that go outwards and go wider in diameter with load. They are also called Bellow air springs. They tend to increase their diameter, so they go very well with heavy-duty trucks & RVs. 

Also Read About – Custom Air Bag Suspension Kits

Pros of Using Air Bag Suspension System: 

An airbag system changes the whole dynamics of driving. While you will have to use the same electrical system, you will find your driving more balanced & effective. It is said that until you’re a truck driver, you won’t see a significant difference, but that’s not completely true. Here are some pros that you will feel with an air suspension system. 

  • Your vehicle resists well against the smallest of bumps & potholes as there is air under your tires. 
  • Your steering gets lost when you apply heavy weight to the vehicle. It results in more stopping distances. Airbags increase the ride height and maintain the handling. 
  • Airbags help you to convert your truck to a comfortable passenger vehicle easily. 
  • Loads on the trailer hitch cause your headlight to point skywards. Airbags help you to keep your lights at level. 

Cons of Using Air Bag Suspension System: 

Don’t think that air suspension comes with only pros. There are certain difficulties that you may feel while using an airbag suspension system. 

  • The airbag system consists of many parts. Balancing the airbags, fittings, and wiring compressor & ECM can be challenging. 
  • There is not much for the maintenance of the air suspension system. However, if they start malfunctioning, you may need full maintenance. 
  • Things can become dangerous if an airbag suddenly gets damaged while driving. 

Future of Air Bag Suspension System: 

The air suspension system is highly effective in trucks & heavy SUVs. As they offer better control over driving, air bag suspension system market share is on the rise. With a rise in global sales of commercial vehicles, the market share of airbag suspension is expected to reach USD 21.8 billion in 2027. 

Here are some of the other predictions for the air suspension industry. 

– The airbag suspension comes with a complicated electronic system. The designing, prototyping, and production of such a system is complicated and requires funds. It can be a challenge for manufacturers to keep their technology up to date. 

– Lightweight air suspension system is on the rise. They emit less CO2 and improve fuel efficiency.

– As the demand for air suspension systems is on the rise, there will be a challenge for local suppliers. 

– The electronically controlled air suspension system will grow the fastest. Most of the upcoming trucks & heavy-duty SUVs will have electronic systems to control their suspension more finely. 

– The industrialists are expecting the heavy-duty truck segments to be the largest shareholder in the air suspension market. 

– The Asia continent will dominate the air suspension market by 2027. 

Costing of Air Bag Suspension System: 

The air suspension system uses several pieces of equipment and they differ for different vehicle models & load weight. As you raise the load, the prices increase as well. Also, all the kits come as axles. The price also depends on how many axles you install the load. 

The kit ranges from $400 to $1000 for a complete manual air suspension system installation. A compressor kit with the electronic system can add $1000 more. 

Conclusion: 

The air suspension system is a proven machinery installation to enhance your vehicle’s driving experience. They are mostly used in heavy vehicles to counter the effect of load weight. But passenger vehicles today are also using it for better control & comfort. This article discusses everything you need to know about air suspension. Now if you’re looking for a quick update on your vehicle, the air suspension system is good to go. 

Aftermarket Air Suspension, General Discussions

Problems Using Air Suspension and How to Solve Them?

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Air Suspension gives you an advanced comfortable ride with a controlled driving experience. Luxury cars, and sports cars, and we see this technology deployed in some of the best models of commercial cars as well. The air suspension tech helps a driver in overall driving with the help of sensors, even ride height, and smart controls against unstable road conditions. But there are times when your air suspension system may fall ill. The very common failing areas are damper, O-ring, and height sensors. But that’s not all. 

What is an Air Suspension System? 

An air suspension system uses pressurised air as a replacement for a spring coil to give balance and more control to the car. An air suspension system has flexible bellows of textile-reinforced type of rubber. The sensors are attached to the system to track the extreme conditions of the road. They allow the passing of air into these bellows to maintain an even ride throughout the journey. 

The purpose of the air suspension system is to offer an even, smooth, and constant driving quality. We see air suspension systems in sports cars as well as overpower on the race tracks. Instead of using conventional steel spring suspension, using an air suspension system is becoming a trend in heavy vehicles as well. 

Parts of a Typical Air Suspension System: 

A typical air suspension system consists of several parts to control the sensors, movement of air, and ride balance. A typical air suspension system consists of the following parts. 

– Height Sensors

– Air Suspension Control System

– Air Compressor

– Air Reservoir

– Air Plumbing Lines

– Valve Blocks

– Air Spring Bags. 

( Read More – Custom Air Bag Suspension Kits )

How does the Air Suspension System Work?

Air Suspension works with airbags instead of metal springs. The idea was to make a car more comfortable and balanced. Until the mass production of air suspension systems, drivers used to install springs in their cars for suspension but it didn’t work ideally. 

The concept of air suspension is simple. Pressurised air in a bag reduces the impact of a fall or sudden outside pressure. Each tire of a car has cushioning, inflated airbags, and an air compressor. The compressor controls the pressurised air volume in the bag to suit the situation. 

Using airbags offers your car a smooth drive on off-roading where you don’t find clear ground. Small bumps significantly disturb your speed and increase the chances of accidents. Alongside, when you’re driving on the highways or a clear city road, air suspension helps you to lower your vehicle’s height and increases fuel efficiency dramatically. 

  1. The compressor uses atmospheric air and supplies it to the reservoir. 
  2. The air then passes to the high-control valves. These HCVs are connected to the car’s frame. 
  3. When you put weight on the vehicle, the HCV linkage moves and air travels through the valve, air pipes, and supply line accordingly. 
  4. The movement of pressurised air inflates the airbags. 
  5. As the bags achieve an equilibrium, HCV linkage and valve return to their original position. 
  6. When you remove the loads, the axle retains its earlier state. 
  7. The airbags release air through the exhaust port of the vehicle. 
  8. Once the air is released, the exhaust port gets locked and maintains an accurate ride level. 

Symptoms of a Faulty Air Suspension System: 

– Uneven ride height while driving. 

– Rough handling on & off the road. 

– Noises coming out of your car

– Imbalance while turning the car

– Car sagging while carrying heavy loads. 

– Airbag leakages. 

What are the failure points of the Air Suspension System? 

1. Air leakage: 

The air suspension system works with the moving system of pressurised air through the valves & airbags. But there are some holes in the airbags, the holes don’t let the air work at its full efficiency. The damaged airbags leak the compressed air and the whole system starts to malfunction. 

Solution:

– Check for any leakages in the airbag. 

– If it’s a small one, use a patch kit to seal it. Otherwise, replace the whole airbags once. 

2. Defective Air Line: 

The compressor takes air from the surroundings and sends it to the airbag through airlines. These airlines are the carriers of compressed air. In case anything happens to them, your airbags will never be able to perform ideally. Moreover, it can cause overheating as well. 

Solution: 

– Check for any leakages or clogged airlines. 

– Replace them if you need them. 

3. Broken or Loose Electrical Connection: 

Modern air suspension systems come with electrical connections. These are responsible for electrical signals & movement of components. The air suspension won’t work at all if the wires are loose or the electrical fuses are defective. 

Solution: 

– Securely remove all the live air suspension wires from the car. 

– Carefully inspect the cables.

– If they are loose, fix them. If they’re broken, you need to replace them. 

4. Malfunctioning Ride Height Sensors: 

The ride height sensors measure the distance between the car & the ground. They send these signals to the ECM of your car and control the air suspension. These signals improve your car safety on both bumpy & smooth roads. The defects in the height sensors may give the wrong signals and cause inappropriate levelling. 

Solution: 

– Locate the height sensor on the car. You can find them on the front & rear axles. 

– Replace it if you need. 

5. Bad Air Compressor: 

The air compressor sends the environmental air to the airbags. It is the heart of the air suspension system which causes smooth & even driving. If you’re facing issues with airbags, you need to check whether or not your compressor is working well. 

Solution: 

– Check for any kinds of worn-out components in the compressor. 

– If found, you must replace the component. 

– Notably, sometimes, you may need to replace the whole compressor. 

6. Bad Electronic Control Module: 

Malfunctioning ECM can cause irregular responses throughout the system. This will surely cause uneven driving and discomfort. The ECM receives the signals and controls the air suspension pressure. 

Solution: 

– If every other component is working fine, you need to check the ECM. 

– Seek assistance from an electronic expert. 

– Replace the ECM if needed. 

Conclusion: 

The Air Suspension system significantly improves the performance of any vehicle including the heavy ones. But this system also has its faults. There are so many components used in the air suspension system. If any of them are not functioning, the system will not work and cause you discomfort while driving. 

In this article, we have discussed the various problems in an air suspension system and how to solve them. Keep riding. 

General Discussions, Shop Talk

Drop Kits, what you need to get the job done!

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Lowering your car or truck requires general knowledge of the specific chassis suspension components, and what aftermarket components are needed to get the drop your looking for.  In this write up we will touch on a few of the more standard suspension types, the vehicles they will be found in and the drop suspension parts that are used.

Most later model cars use struts to suspend the vehicle.  Some vehicles, even SUV’s can have front and rear struts.  Another fairly common configuration is having struts in the front of the car or truck and then an alternate configuration in the rear like coil springs or even leaf springs.

The most common types of suspension for early and late model cars and trucks.
This information is very good to know when considering converting your classic or late model vehicle to a custom air ride suspension system.

Below you will find the exact replacement components for your vehicle depending on the current suspension components that your car or truck uses. In some cases we can substitute coil springs for strut or trailing arms and coils for a custom 4-link kit that will be more accommodating. Knowing this would require a lot more information about ALL the suspension components that have been used in the production of passenger vehicles from the beginning, but for now we will stick with the basics (struts, coils, leaf springs).

Leaf springs are deleted to either go with a 4-link kit and coilovers or air bags. 4-links hold the rear straight axle centered and from shifting either front to back or right to left. Once your axle is free floating on links you can add the replacement suspension (coilovers or air bags). Below you will find a picture of both options to get an idea how this is accomplished.

4-link rear suspension example (coilover rear suspension with link / air bag rear suspension with links)
Aftermarket Air Suspension

Air Struts, how they work and do you need them?

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The direct answer to this is YES, you absolutely need them if your vehicle is currently utilizing strut as a factory suspension component.  If you absolutely do not want a strut assembly and are willing to do a lot of fabrication work then installing a bag is also a possibility as long as your not substituting a McPherson strut.  You will know if your front struts are McPherson by simply verifying whether you have an upper control arm or don’t.

McPherson struts allow the spindle and strut to move simultaneously and has the ability to spin with the steering. This allows all the entire vehicle suspension structure to rest on the strut and lower control arm.  Alignment is then achieved through your strut adjustments or the lower control arm.  In this case no upper control arms are necessary. A general picture of this is represented below:

McPherson Strut Example

The alternative top this type of suspension which is seen in larger vehicles and trucks is the double wishbone style suspension. This is easily distinguished by the upper and lower control arms.

These double wishbone suspension configurations are generally stronger.

Aftermarket Air Suspension

Which air valves are better? Single Brass Valves or A Solid all in one Air Engine.

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There are many questions one may ask themselves when considering a complete air ride suspension kit..  One of these constant questions is should I go with an air engine which will house 8 different valves in one solid unit (capable of controlling my entire system) or do I purchase 8 independent valves (also capable of controlling the lift and drop of each corner of my chassis)?  Surprisingly there are pros and cons to both which we will explain in detail.  Air engines to begin are an extremely easy way of installing a complete front, back, and side to side system due to there integrated configuration.  One central area to wire your switch controller as well as only 5 fittings for the connection to your tank and bags.  These simple facts make air engines less prone to leaking due to less fitting use which means less connection points for which they can leak and if they do, then finding the leak is usually a piece of cake.  The one and only problem with some of these valves is that if one valve is damaged or becomes defective then the entire valve engine needs to be swapped out which can cause down time which is not a good thing for a daily driver.  Some air engines will allow certain parts to be rebuilt or tested and can be dismantled making down time much less, where others are completely sealed units like AccuAir which can be a bear and needs to be completely removed and swapped out with a different unit all together.  (Pictures of these two configurations can be seen below:)

Alternate Air Valve Styles - Air Engine Types

Other then this air engines are a great way to get thing with your aftermarket custom air ride system up and running quickly.

Brass independent air valves can also have there ups and downs, as they are a great way to save on your overall cost of your kit and will allow your installation to be customized to your liking.   Some installers / customers may choose to conceal these separate valves in there wheel well or other convenient places which make them a preferred item for there installation. A downfall to these independent air valves is that there are many more air connections to each of the individual parts like air bags alternate valves for bumping and filling the air bags and the air supply which can be prone to leaking. Like the valve engines, these valves can also be rebuilt to accommodate a quick and easy repair without swapping the entire part out.  It all comes down to personal preference, and what you believe will be the best option for your project.

For more information on air valves, and for a list of parts including the valves themselves be sure to check out www.x2industries.com or give them a call at 1-800-823-0320

 

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