Air suspension systems in vehicles can replace traditional components or assist them. Airbags have Schrader valves and can be checked and filled with the same tool as tires. Custom air suspensions can be installed by the owner or a professional mechanic. Regular checks are necessary as airbags lose air slowly. Some systems are automatic and have onboard air pumps. Deflating airbags before raising the vehicle for repair is important to avoid damage.
In automotive applications, air suspension systems often incorporate a series of airbags into the suspension system. These bags can take the place of traditional components, such as springs, or serve to assist them. In some heavy-duty applications, an air suspension can help take some of the stress out of traditional suspension parts. In either case, airbags will usually have the same type of Schrader valves found in car tires, and can be checked and filled with the same tool used on tires. If the airbags fail, the vehicle can become difficult or even dangerous to operate.
Some vehicles come from the factory with air suspension, while others are customized before the customer purchases the vehicle. An example of this might be a recreational vehicle (RV), where the RV manufacturer purchases bare chassis from vehicle manufacturers. In addition to building an RV on the chassis, these types of customizers may add equipment like an air suspension or track bars, to improve handling and safety.
In many cases, it is possible for a vehicle owner to install their own custom air suspension. The parts necessary to accomplish this are often available on the aftermarket. Depending on the owner’s experience, you can either install the custom parts yourself, or you may choose to hire a professional mechanic to do the job. An aftermarket air suspension like this may be designed simply to improve handling, or it may be part of a lift kit intended to raise the vehicle’s body off the frame. The latter may be for aesthetic purposes or to increase ground clearance in a vehicle that will be driven in off-road conditions.
The air bags in these suspension systems tend to lose air slowly, similar to tires. This can make it important to check the air in them on a regular basis, as driving with flat airbags can cause damage to them. In some cases, each airbag will have a Schrader valve that needs to be checked on the airbag, while others will use tubing to route all the valves to a central location.
Some air suspension systems are automatic. These types may include an onboard air pump that automatically fills the airbags to the specified level each time the vehicle is started. If a vehicle is equipped with one of these automatic systems, it may be important to make sure the airbags have been deflated before raising the vehicle for repair. Doing so may cause damage to the air bag system.
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