As is commonly known that air suspension system is one of the most popular suspension systems these days. Instead of using traditional steel springs, this system has airbags do the job. In fact, air ride bags complete the mission perfectly in most cases. However, air bags need compressed air to power the whole system. Chances are there may be problems over time. From Vigorairride, we will discuss the air leaking problem that may occur in your suspension system.
First thing first, you need to know what air suspension is and the possible problems that may happen to your suspension.
What’s the point of air suspension?
The basic idea of installing an air suspension system is to offer a consistent and smooth ride quality. Yet, it is also employed for sports suspension in some circumstances. Self-leveling, as well as raising and lowering capabilities, are nearly usually included in modern electrically operated units in cars and commercial vehicles. In other words, it makes your driving easier and smoother.
Air suspension winter checkup
Every time your pickup truck loses traction on the road in the winter, you know it’s time to get an air suspension checkup. This is the best time to check for leaks and faulty seals. The problem usually has to do with the air suspension bush, which is a crucial component of the entire system. If the air sacs become clogged, they won’t be able to provide enough traction to your tires. The usual remedy is simply having the air suspension taken out and then having a new, reliable suspension installed.
But this isn’t always the best option. Sometimes a frozen ground, especially one with very cold temperatures can crack and break down the seal between your air suspension tank and the frame. When this happens, the whole truck begins to sag and move with it, making it extremely difficult to drive. There are a number of different reasons why this occurs, but a big one is often caused by groundwater. Ice can also cause this problem, so it pays to be extra cautious when driving through ice patches.
How can air ride ensure better performance in winter?
You can easily avoid having this problem in the winter if you perform regular maintenance on your trucks’ air suspension. Before any of that, though, you need to make sure the engine is warm. Run the engine for a few minutes to warm it up, then plug it in and run a few checks to make sure the fuel pump is also operating properly. If you’re using a diesel engine, make sure the dipstick is below zero. A diesel engine puts out a lot more heat than a gasoline engine, so warm the engine up before you start your maintenance session.
Air leaks in the winter season?
Now, here’s the really important question: how do you survive winter with leaky air suspension? Well, the answer is pretty simple. Every time you plug in your truck engine, you use a compression test to check the pressure, which will tell you whether the air suspension is leaking.
How do you know the air compressor is leaking?
Now, the way to find out if your engine’s compressors are leaking is to plug one end of the system. When the valve is open, you will see a drop in pressure. The compression gauge will show a low-pressure reading. That means that moisture is leaking from one of your air suspension systems.
Ways to stop air compressor from leaking
Leaking in an air compressor is a disaster. Here are two methods for you to avoid this problem.
Keep your vehicle tires properly filled
One way to prevent air suspension compressor valve leaks is to keep your tires filled. Most panzers will have an air suspension compressor valve in them. This is great because it allows them to work in cold weather. However, it does mean that you will need to check them regularly. This is because tires with a lower capacity can leak air in cold weather. If you do not have a panzer and are driving in cold weather, then it would be wise to have a tire iron on hand so that you can at least inspect your tires for leaks.
Change air dryers/filters regularly to prevent leaking
There are other things that you can do to prevent compressor problems. One of the ways that air suspension systems can get damaged is if they are leaking because of too much moisture in them. So if you want to prevent such a problem from happening, you should make sure that you change your air filters at least once a month. It will also be helpful if you keep your tires up off the ground. Lastly, if you want to avoid compressor problems in the winter season, then it would be best to keep your car well lubricated.
How can you prevent your air suspension from being damaged?
Now that you know how to identify air suspension problems, what can you do to avoid having such problems in the future? Well, one thing you can do is invest in high-quality tires. Go with radial tires as they are designed to work harder and resist a bigger amount of force. This will help prevent your air suspension from getting damaged.
Suggestions and recommendations
You may wonder can my air ride system survive the winter season? Yes, it will. Weather conditions don’t stop drivers from taking full use of their air ride suspension system and enjoying a pleasant and relaxing ride in the winter. Even so, a few maintenance procedures are necessary. To prevent moisture from freezing air ride parts like valves and fittings, it is wise to put air brake antifreeze into the air tanks. Also, remember to empty your air storage device once a month during winter days.
Seeking further information or professional solutions? Check vigor air ride out. They offer global customers brilliant air ride solutions. Enjoy your winter ride with a great airbag suspension system!
