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Air Bag Suspensions Kits for Trucks

What Is an Air Bag Suspension Kit?

An air bag suspension kit is perfect for truck enthusiasts wanting a truck level that can handle additional load and still provide a comfortable ride. This system replaces conventional suspensions. It uses heavy-duty air bags to adjust height and manage the road's bumps. The kits include components like air springs, a compressor to inflate and deflate the bags, and various fittings. They boost your truck’s load capacity while maintaining durability and ride comfort.

Air Bag Suspension vs Helper Bags

Air bag suspension systems and helper springs, also called helper bags or coil springs, are both used to level a truck. They're different, though. Air bag suspensions can fully replace factory suspension parts and offer greater adjustability. Helper bags are added to existing suspensions to provide extra support under heavy load conditions. They don't offer as much control over ride height, but they're a cost-effective solution to improve handling and vehicle stability when towing or hauling.

Benefits of Using Air Bag Suspensions

Air bag suspensions offer a range of benefits. They are designed to give trucks a lift, aid in handling adverse road conditions, and improve the overall experience on the road. With an air bag suspension, you can expect increased adjustability in ride height, improved handling under various load conditions, and a reduction in body roll. Maintenance gets more straightforward, too, as there are fewer moving parts compared to conventional systems.

Do Air Bags Make a Truck Ride Better?

Absolutely, air bags can make a truck ride better. By letting you adjust the air pressure, they offer customizable ride comfort that's hard to beat. They respond to road conditions by changing the air bag pressure, which makes a smoother ride, especially when the truck is empty. This adaptable system compensates for any weight shift or difference in height between the front and back of the truck, enhancing articulation between wheels and maintaining a level vehicle stance.

Tow and Haul with Safety and Comfort

When it comes to towing and hauling, air bag suspensions are a game-changer. They ensure that the truck remains stable and level, no matter the load. This stability is crucial for safe and secure towing. The adjustability provided by an air bag suspension kit allows drivers to maintain optimal ride height and preserve the comfort inside the cabin, enhancing the safety and enjoyment of towing or hauling heavy loads.

Air Springs for Semi Trucks and Trailers

For semi-trucks and trailers, air springs offer vital support. They're engineered to withstand the considerate weight from commercial hauling needs. With air suspensions, semi-trucks gain superior ride quality, reduced wear and tear on the vehicle, and better fuel efficiency. The manageability and adjustable suspension benefits are equally applied here, ensuring cargo is transported smoothly and without damage, even when navigating through tough road conditions.

Components of a Typical Air Bag Suspension Setup

A standard air bag suspension kit includes several key components:

  • Air Bags: The actual air springs that provide support and absorb road shock.
  • Air Compressor: Powers the system by generating the air needed to inflate the bags.
  • Air Tank: Stores compressed air, allowing for quick changes in pressure.
  • Valves: Control the airflow to each bag for adjusting ride height and firmness.
  • Controller: The interface that the driver uses to manage air pressure and adjust the suspension.
  • Fittings and Lines: Connect everything together, allowing air to flow among components.

How Much Does It Cost To Put Air Suspension On A Truck?

The cost to install air suspension on a truck can vary greatly. It depends on the type of kit, the quality of components, and whether you opt for a basic or advanced system. Typically, you might spend anywhere from a few hundred dollars for a simple kit to several thousand for a top-of-the-line setup. This price includes items like bags, compressors, and all the necessary hardware. The installation cost must be factored in as well. If you do it yourself, you'll save money but need the right tools and time. Professional installation ensures it's done right but will add to the overall expense. It’s a good investment for the long-term benefits it brings to a truck's performance and cargo management capabilities.

Air helper bags and kits are considered less costly because they do not include components such as a compressor and a controller. For many users, a basic air bag kit without a compressor might be sufficient if they simply want to increase the load capacity and don't need to adjust the pressure dynamically. 

Vigor offers the most cost effective solution on the market.

How to Install Air Bag Suspension Kits

Do-It-Yourself vs. Professional Installation

Deciding whether to install an air bag suspension kit yourself or to hire a professional boils down to skill level, time, and budget. A do-it-yourself (DIY) approach might save you money and can provide a great sense of accomplishment. However, if you're not confident in your mechanical skills or don't have the proper tools, seeking professional help might be the better choice. Professionals can guarantee a safe and correct installation, and they can often get the job done faster. Remember, improper installation not only risks your vehicle's performance but also your safety.

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Your Air Ride Kit

When it comes to installing an air ride kit, having a step-by-step guide is invaluable:

  1. Prepare the Vehicle: Safely lift and support the vehicle. Remove the wheels for easy access to the suspension area.
  2. Remove Existing Suspension Parts: Take out the factory springs, shocks, and any other parts that won't be needed.
  3. Install Air Bags and Hardware: Carefully place the air bags into their designated position, ensuring all brackets and fittings are secure.
  4. Route Air Lines: Lay out the air lines with care to avoid areas that move a lot or get very hot.
  5. Mount the Compressor and Tank: Find a place that's protected and stable to install these critical components.
  6. Connect Electrical Components: Wire the compressor, switch, and any electronic controllers following the manufacturer's guidelines.
  7. Test the System: Before putting everything back together, inflate and deflate the system to check for leaks and proper operation.

Key Takeaways

Air bag suspension kits are transformative additions to trucks, providing adjustable ride heights, enhanced load capacity, and improved comfort. Although they may seem costly upfront, the long-term benefits of safety, comfort, and vehicle stability can far outweigh the initial investment. The key components of a typical kit include air bags, a compressor, control systems, and fittings. For installation, DIY is possible with the right tools and instructions, but professional help is recommended for those less experienced. Remember that adjusting air suspension systems can change your truck's performance significantly. It's an investment that pays dividends in the handling and capability of your vehicle.