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Frequently asked questions
Q. Will installing air springs increase the weight ratings of a vehicle?
No. Adding air springs will not change the weight ratings (GAWR, GCWR and/or GVWR) of a vehicle. Exceeding the
GVWR is dangerous and voids the Air Lift warranty.
Q. Is it necessary to keep air in the air springs at all time and how much pressure will they need?
The minimum air pressure should be maintained at all times. The minimum air pressure keeps the air spring in shape,
ensuring that it will move throughout its travel without rubbing or wearing on itself.
Q. Is it necessary to add a compressor system to the air springs?
No. Air pressure can be adjusted with any type of compressor as long as it can produce sufficient pressure to service
the springs. Even a bicycle tire pump can be used, but it's a lot of work.
Q. How long should air springs last?
If the air springs are properly installed and maintained they can last indefinitely.
Q. Will raising the vehicle on a hoist for service work damage the air springs?
No. The vehicle can be lifted on a hoist for short-term service work such as tire rotation or oil changes. However, if
the vehicle will be on the hoist for a prolonged period of time, support the axle with jack stands in order to take the
tension off of the air springs.
Tuning the air pressure
Pressure determination comes down to three things — level vehicle, ride comfort, and stability.
1. Level vehicle
If the vehicle's headlights are shining into the trees or the vehicle is leaning to one side, then it is not level (fig. 1).
Raise the air pressure to correct either of these problems and level the vehicle.
2. Ride comfort
If the vehicle has a rough and harsh ride it may be due to either too much pressure or not enough (fig. 2). Try different
pressures to determine the best ride comfort.
3. Stability
Stability translates into safety and should be the priority, meaning the driver may need to sacrifice a perfectly level
and comfortable ride. Stability issues include roll control, bounce, dive during braking and sponginess (fig. 3). Tuning
out these problems usually requires an increase in pressure.
Bad headlight aim
Product Use Information
fig. 1
fig. 2
Sway and body roll
Rough ride
Continued on pg. 2
fig. 3
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