How Air Ride Works | The Bottom Line

Air ride suspension lets trucks and other vehicles sit flat on the ground while still being great to drive. Though there are different ways to achieve this, air ride is the favored as it also provides a smooth ride when installed correctly. Join in as we dive into air bags for trucks with lots of information for the best way to a lowered truck that you'd love to drive.
0:00 Introduction of How Air Ride Works with Kevin Aguilar

We start off at Old Anvil Speed Shop to set the stage for this video. Kevin kicks things off by explaining that air ride suspension is one of the hottest modifications for trucks. He also points out that many vehicles featured on our website, drivingline.com use air ride to sit flat on the ground. Check out one such feature here: https://www.drivingline.com/articles/father-and-son-d100-dcm-classic-s-62-dodge-sweptline-pickup/


1:18 Coil Springs Vs. Air Bags

To get a better look at the differences between traditional springs and airbags, we show the two parts up close. As you will see, the springs are stiff and don’t really move and the airbags are very flexible in a deflated state. We also explain that with the use of pressurized air, ‘bags will inflate and can be used to lift a vehicle.



2:25 Air Ride Maintenance & Consumable Parts

With more parts involved to make an air ride system work, there is more to maintain. Airbags and compressors can be considered consumable parts as they will go out with time. Other pieces like valves or valve manifolds may need servicing over time and it is imperative to keep your vehicle’s battery charged as it powers the system.



2:41 Where Does Air Ride Fit In?

Paul Bosserman, owner of Old Anvil steps in to help explain why someone would choose to equip a vehicle with airbags. He also shows us around his personal ’66 Chevy C10 that has a full custom chassis. Paul shows the parallel 4-link rear suspension and how it works with sleeve ‘bags. Then, we move forward to the front and catch a good glimpse of the suspension as there is no engine in the truck yet.



17:07 Using Compressed Air

In order to make these suspension systems work, vehicles need an active on-board air generating system. We have a look at a running system that utilizes compressors to fill air tanks, which are regulated with a valve manifold that is computer controlled. The management system on this C10 can be manually adjusted and set to a few presets that use height sensors for accurate height control.



20:08 Ridetech Shockwaves

Air ride is great for smooth ride and adjustability, but won’t hold up to serious power. For those looking to have an adjustable suspension that can be tuned for racing purposes, Ridetech’s Shockwave product is a perfect compromise. The airbagged strut system comes in a small package and can be used to stand up to high-performance style vehicles. You won’t be able to get as much height adjustment when compared to a typical stand-alone airbag, but you can handle more horsepower with them.

You'll find Ridetech Shockwaves in this '57 Chevy custom dubbed "Snow White:" https://www.drivingline.com/articles/snow-white-the-fairest-57-chevy-of-them-all/




Still interested in learning more about air ride? Check out our previous video titled “Is Air Suspension Right for You?”

https://youtu.be/gtI9Wbyr4_A
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