If you’ve seen or heard about vehicle air suspensions and are somebody who hauls a lot of weight, it’s probably time to consider getting an air suspension kit installed ASAP. There are general benefits to having air bags installed with the suspension and then there are real world applications for having them put on your weighted down and tore up truck.
Cargo Handling / Steering
Depending on what type of trailer you’re pulling and how much it weighs in combination with whatever cargo is loaded, your truck is going to handle differently than if it were driving without a trailer. Air suspension kits complement all types of trailer attachments (5th wheel / gooseneck, etc) and make it easier to handle the steering wheel. If you’ve ever been in a situation where you’re making a longer trip with a heavy trailer, truck and camper combination, or livestock trailer that is loaded with steers, you know the struggle of fighting with the steering wheel and swerving all over the road – address the problem now and you’ll be glad you did! You can also regulate the amount of air needed in the bags depending on how much you’re hauling.
Increase in Payload
Payload is what you haul in the bed of your truck –> air bag suspension kits increase your payload (simple as that!) You could comfortably haul up to 5,000lbs more weight in the bed without breaking a sweat or your leaf springs.
Tire Wear
Wear and tear on tires is frustrating, especially when they are uneven after a couple thousand miles. Air bags evenly distribute weight across the vehicle, making the wear patterns even out – applicable for both towing and payload situations. Longer trips or constant wear on even tires is what you’re looking for so you can be more preapred when it’s time to change into new truck shoes. The air bags make the weight span across all 4 wheels, giving you the perfect track and wear pattern.
Fuel Mileage
Similar to tire wear, weight distribution is key! If all the weight is in the back, your miles per gallon is going to suffer. By having even weight distribution across the vehicle, you can achieve higher miles per gallon (especially on longer trips!).
Visibility at Night
Think about it: when the back of the vehicle is being weighted down, where’s the front pointing? UP! The last thing you want when you’re hauling a heavy trailer at night is to miss spotting a deer running across the road or a pot hole. You need your headlights pointing straight for optimal visibility and safety. With air suspension kits, the rear end is leveled out, making the front half level at the same time. Think safety when you’re buying truck accessories.
Vehicle Longevity
After years of lugging and tugging heavy trailers, you old truck is going to start to break down because the OE equipment is going to be shot. Air bags prolong your OE suspension and other chassis components which ultimately increases the life of your truck. Trucks aren’t cheap and buying a new one every couple years because of heavy hauling loads isn’t the most efficient tactic for saving money. By spending a few dollars in the beginning, you can extend the life of your hard-working truck for years to come.
