Air suspension Ford Bus B series (rear axle). Installing air suspension on a Ford Focus with your own hands Installing front air struts

Many people choose it as an alternative to the Sprinter. The cost of "Transit" is less, and the characteristics of carrying capacity and comfort are at the same level. There are different modifications of these trucks - from minibuses to 20 cc vans and refrigerators. Typically, springs or leaf springs are installed on the rear axle of Transit vehicles. But many owners replace this one. What does this give? Let's look at it in our article today.

Characteristic

Pneumatic is a type of suspension that allows you to adjust the ride height. This system is widely used in commercial vehicles. Manufacturers are gradually moving away from archaic multi-leaf springs in favor of air springs.

Now all semi-trailers and heavy-duty vehicles are equipped with these. As for small commercial vehicles (up to three tons and below), air suspension is less common here. The reason for this is the strong rise in price of the car - the system is much more complex than coil springs and springs. We will explain below how the air suspension works.

About the design

This system consists of several elements:

  • Air cylinders. They operate on the principle of springs and springs - they hold the weight of the car and partially dampen vibrations. You can see what the pneumatic cylinders on Transit look like below. They are made from a thick piece of rubber. The air inside is filled with high pressure. Due to its elastic design, the pillow can change shape, thereby adjusting the ground clearance.

  • Compressor. Serves to pump air into the receiver. The latter has a volume from 3 to 10 liters. When using a Ford Transit, it is recommended to use a 10-liter receiver. Usually it is located in the body or in the cabin. Note that the budget air suspension installed on the Ford Transit may not include these elements (receivers). As for the compressor, it is the main component of the system. Without it, the suspension operation is simply impossible. The unit operates from a 12-volt network and automatically turns off when a certain pressure is reached.
  • Airways. Air moves through them under pressure from the compressor to the actuators.
  • Electronic sensors. Track the position and tilt of the car body in real time. Thus, the cylinders can be inflated at a certain moment, making the car more stable on the road. These sensors interact with the control unit. But such electronics are rarely installed on commercial vehicles. More often business and premium class cars.

Why is the receiver relevant?

When choosing an air suspension package for a Ford Transit, you should not skimp on this element. The device allows you to store air under pressure for a long time. If it is necessary to raise the car, air from the receiver quickly (within 4-5 seconds) replenishes the air cylinder chamber. The latter becomes harder, and the ground clearance increases. If there is no receiver, air will be pumped directly into the pillows. But this is very long and harmful to the compressor. If used frequently, it may simply burn out.

Advantages

How does a Ford Transit behave on air suspension? Owner reviews claim that installing airbags eliminates the consequences of vehicle overload. These are lateral rolls, spring breakage and suspension breakdowns. Regarding the last factor, the balloon acts as a buffer, preventing the frame from contacting the main leaf of the spring.

What else do reviews say about Ford Transit with air suspension? The car also becomes more comfortable. The cushion smoothly dampens vibrations and shocks when hitting bumps. For this reason, air suspension is often installed on a Ford Transit minibus.

Still, the main factor that pushes owners to install air suspension in the Ford Transit is an increase in load capacity. And, according to reviews, the cylinders cope “excellently” with this task. The load on the standard springs is minimal, and the ground clearance remains the same.

Flaws

Why is air suspension not installed on the Ford Transit utility vehicle and other modifications from the factory? One of the negative factors is low maintainability. If the cylinder breaks (and this is depressurization), it must be changed entirely. The compressor is also difficult to repair. And the system itself is not cheap. How much will it cost to install air suspension on a Ford Transit? The price of the most budget option starts from 20 thousand rubles. A complete set can be installed for 100 thousand.

Which one to choose?

For small commercial vehicles, they often choose to install air suspension only on the rear axle.

As for the type, it is better to install a single circuit system. You can install a dual-circuit one, but there is no point in it - the reviews say.

Installation

How to install air suspension on a Ford Transit with your own hands? Note that installation does not require completely reworking the chassis. Let's consider the most popular option - installing a single-circuit air suspension on a Ford Transit (set price - from 15 thousand rubles) on the rear axle. First, the brackets for the pillows are installed. The upper one is attached to the frame, the lower one - to the spring leaf.

During the work, it is necessary to make holes for bolted connections of the brackets. Next, pneumatic cylinders are installed here. Hoses are connected to them. It is better to install a compressor with a receiver in the cabin. There is limited space in the engine compartment, and in the body (if it is a booth) it can be damaged. We connect the solenoid valves to the unit and display the control panel on the front panel. This completes the installation of the air suspension in the Ford Transit. The tubes should be laid along the inside of the frame, securing them with clamps.

Extending the resource

In order for the cylinders to serve for a long time (and this is half the cost of the entire system kit), you need to know some rules for caring for them. The rubber coating of the cushions is very resistant to road chemicals and dirt. Even small particles can act as an abrasive at the joints of parts of air cylinders. To ensure that the pillows last a long time and do not deflate, they should be periodically cleaned of dirt. And in winter - treat with silicone.

As the temperature drops, the rubber becomes hard and, even in the absence of dirt, begins to “eat” itself. Silicone will create a kind of layer, which will ensure free movement of the air spring components.

Conclusion

So, we found out what air suspension is, how and why it is installed on a Ford Transit. Judging by the reviews, many are satisfied with this choice. Air suspension improves vehicle stability on the road and increases load capacity, which is especially important in commercial activities.

Our online store is pleased to offer you an auxiliary air suspension kit for a Ford Transit for self-installation on the most favorable terms!

This equipment is the simplest and most convenient way to increase the load capacity, controllability, comfort of your car, and also significantly reduce the wear of the standard suspension elements!

The kit contains all the necessary elements and fasteners. Does not require the use of special tools during installation.

When installing our air suspension kit no changes are made to the main components of the car, which means it does not require registration with traffic police and does not entail problems with technical inspection.

You can install this auxiliary air suspension kit for your Ford Transit at:

Moscow, st. Aviamotornaya 44

By installing an auxiliary pneumatic system for strengthening the spring suspension, you get:

  • Increased load capacity without damaging the vehicle

Air springs allow the suspension to cope with loads of up to 4 tons!

  • Reduced spring wear

Standard springs are unloaded and work in “greenhouse” conditions.

  • Possibility of installation on “tired” springs

Install air springs on springs that require replacement and they will last for a long time.

  • Correct body position for any load

The body is always horizontal, which means proper operation of the head light and a reduction in braking distance.

  • Reducing car roll

Air springs keep the car from rolling when cornering and level it when the load is uneven.

  • Increased comfort

General increase in comfort and good handling of road irregularities.

  • Increasing the profitability of your fleet

Air suspension is an opportunity to transport 2-3 times more cargo in one flight.

You also save on replacing springs and fines for overloading.

  • Fast payback for an air suspension kit

The air suspension pays for itself in 1-2 flights.

FAQ

Question: Does your auxiliary air suspension kit include a compressor (control system)?

Answer: No, it's not included. But we suggest purchasing it separately, with a choice of components specifically for your needs. Firstly, this reduces the cost of the kit, because many people do not need a control system, and secondly, you get a product that meets exactly your needs, and not some kind of universal, average set.

Question: How long can I carry cargo after installing air suspension?

Answer: Now it depends only on you, our air bags have huge margin of safety. But we kindly ask you to think about other elements of the car that you did not strengthen; now they are at risk. Use your car wisely.

Question: What is the lifespan of your air suspension?

Answer: When installed correctly and used in accordance with our recommendations, the service life of the air suspension practically unlimited. Of course, we do not take into account external damage to the pneumatic element.

Question: The springs require replacement, do they need to be changed to install air suspension?

Answer: Our air suspension kit can be installed and on “tired” springs, they will not need to be replaced. If the springs are broken, they will still have to be replaced.

Question: Why so expensive?

Answer: Expensive only at first glance. The kits are created using a large number of imported components, which affects the price. But the price of the kit is comparable to the cost of replacing the springs with new ones, and the cushions will last much longer. If you consider the savings on replacing springs, as well as the additional profit from increasing the carrying capacity of your vehicle, you will understand that it is not at all expensive and will pay off very fast.

Question: Should I choose a single-circuit or double-circuit system?

Answer: If you are using a basic kit without a control system, if you do not overload the car on one side, then you will be enough one circuit(the pillows are connected into one line). For greater vehicle stability (for example, with a high body/booth height), we recommend installing dual-circuit control system.

Ford Transit New cargo truck with air suspension

Official dealer for new cars Ford Transit"Aaron Auto" offers for sale a ready-made car with air suspension installed on the gable Ford Transit cargo.

These cars Ford with air suspension Can buy already available in Moscow on Ryabinovaya Street. This vehicle was installed rear auxiliary air suspension kit With dual-circuit control system. This air preparation system is equipped with an air receiver for faster and easier body lifting, even with maximum load.

Even if your car does not have standard air suspension, this is not a problem. Our specialists at Aaron Auto can install air suspension on your spring car in a short time. All basic air suspension kits for commercial vehicles are always available in stock in Moscow.

New Ford Transit easily sags at the slightest load. Each transport company tries to use its commercial transport fleet to the maximum. But the rated carrying capacity Ford Transit does not always coincide with the customer’s desire to carry maximum weight comfortably. The most correct and flexible way to compensate for the sagging of the new Ford Transit is to install an additional air suspension to the standard spring package.

This method of installing air suspension allows you to keep the standard suspension elements unchanged. When installing an axial set of air springs, no welding, drilling or modification of the standard suspension is required.

The pressure in the air bags is regulated by two control keys and controlled by a two-pointer pressure gauge with suspension:

In this case, there is no need to take out the standard wheel compressor to change the pressure. You can adjust the height of the car from the cab.

The pneumatic element control system is installed under the passenger seat and hidden from prying eyes:

The additional output of the receiver can be used to inflate wheels or output a pneumatic signal - the loudest reminder of yourself in the general flow.

You can install the suspension on the Ford Transit yourself. But if you want to be sure that everything is done correctly, get a guarantee and save your nerves, contact our company.
Call 8-800-555-20-88

The air suspension on the Ford Transit improves the vehicle's performance characteristics, reduces repair and maintenance costs, and, consequently, increases the profitability of cargo transportation.

The air suspension on the Ford Transit eliminates sagging and rocking of the body when loading, increases the service life of springs and their attachment points, increases comfort and improves handling when driving with a load. After installing the pneumatic elements (pillows), the weight of the vehicle is redistributed, which leads to unloading of the springs and their fastening elements. Adjusting the air pressure in the pneumatic elements (cushions) allows you to select the optimal operating mode of the air suspension depending on the vehicle load.

How to install air suspension on a Ford Transit

The air suspension on the Ford Transit is optional equipment; its installation does not require changes to the vehicle design. Pneumatic elements (pillows) are fixed between the frame and the bridge using special brackets. The air suspension control system is usually located inside the vehicle.

Installation does not require completely reworking the chassis. The most popular option is to install a single-circuit air suspension on the Ford Transit on the rear axle. First, the brackets for the pillows are installed. The upper one is attached to the frame, the lower one - to the spring leaf. During the work, it is necessary to make holes for bolted connections of the brackets. Next, pneumatic cylinders are installed here. Hoses are connected to them. It is better to install a compressor with a receiver in the cabin. There is limited space in the engine compartment, and in the body (if it is a booth) it can be damaged. We connect the solenoid valves to the unit and display the control panel on the front panel.

This completes the installation of the air suspension in the Ford Transit. The tubes should be laid along the inside of the frame, securing them with clamps. Extending the service life In order for the cylinders to serve for a long time (and this is half the cost of the entire system set), you need to know some rules for caring for them. The rubber coating of the cushions is very resistant to road chemicals and dirt. Even small particles can act as an abrasive at the joints of parts of air cylinders. To ensure that the pillows last a long time and do not deflate, they should be periodically cleaned of dirt. And in winter - treat with silicone.

The air suspension on the Ford Transit is easy and quick to install. For installation, you will only need a standard set of tools and basic car repair skills. If it is not possible to install the kit yourself, we recommend using the services of a professional car service.

There are two ways to control the air suspension: comfortable and economical.

In the comfortable version, the air suspension on the Ford Transit is installed in conjunction with an air suspension control system (quite simple). In this case, the air pressure in the pneumatic elements (cushions) is controlled by a key from inside the car, and the pressure in the pneumatic elements (cushions) is controlled using a pressure gauge.

In the economical version, the air suspension on the Ford Transit is installed without a control system. Then the adjustment and control of the pressure in the pneumatic elements (pillows) is carried out through the nipple of the pneumatic system, similar to the adjustment and control of the pressure in a car tire.

Aride air suspension for Ford Transit (front-wheel drive FWD) (00-14), rear axle.

Description - Transit air suspension

The auxiliary air suspension kit on the Ford Transit is installed in addition to the vehicle's standard suspension and helps reduce the load on the springs. Installing an air suspension will allow the Ford Transit to carry more cargo without loss of controllability, eliminate spring sagging and breakage, and reduce body sway and roll. Air suspension for Ford Transit (front-wheel drive) is an excellent solution for increasing the service life of the standard suspension.

The air suspension kit is designed specifically for the Ford Transit and includes two pneumatic elements, brackets for mounting to the frame and axle, fasteners, fittings for inflation from an external compressor, and instructions.

DRIVE-RITE AIR SUSPENSION for FORD TRANSIT

Suitable for all-metal vans of all types and modifications, as well as chassis with any add-ons (flatbed, manufactured goods van, isothermal van, refrigerator, camper, motorhome)

Specifications

  • Applicability: Ford Transit (single and double tires)
  • Year of manufacture: 2006-present
  • Kit number: DR 02.013448
  • Air Spring: Firestone #6781
  • Set weight: 22 kg
  • Compressor: 12 V
  • Recommended control systems:
  • DR 11.016110 (Single-circuit, compressor #1260, max. pressure 7 Bar)
  • DR 11.012236 (Single-circuit, compressor #9284, max. pressure 9 Bar)
  • Possible increase in ground clearance (rear axle): 50 mm
  • Air pressure:
  • Maximum 7 Bar (100 PSI)
  • Minimum 1 Bar (15 PSI)
  • Certificates of Conformity: TP and TUV

The auxiliary air suspension kit includes:

  • two high quality air springs
  • metal brackets
  • fastener
  • air fittings for air bags
  • air tee for connection
  • plastic tube with a diameter of 6 mm
  • special inflation nipple (not used with control kit)

Ford Transit is a leader in the light commercial vehicle market. Installing the DRIVE-RITE air suspension in addition to the standard rear suspension can significantly improve the handling and stability of these vehicles.

The optional DRIVE-RITE* air suspension works in tandem with the standard suspension, which uses a steel spring as an elastic element. The elastic element of the additional suspension is an air spring. Air pressure can be adjusted manually or automatically using DRIVE-RITE control systems. The consumer can choose the optimal control system based on the characteristics of the vehicle’s operation.

The additional air suspension significantly reduces the load on the standard springs, improving the vehicle's stability and comfort.

Using the control system, the driver can adjust the pressure in the air springs to ensure optimal stability and comfort, regardless of how loaded the vehicle is.

The optional DRIVE-RITE air suspension is an investment in your vehicle. As you know, over time, standard metal springs lose their elasticity and begin to “sag,” which leads to decreased comfort, increased loads on chassis elements, and increased driver fatigue, especially when the vehicle is fully loaded.

Additional air suspension is an active component of the standard suspension of your vehicle. A vehicle equipped with the DRIVE-RITE air suspension kit is easier to handle, more comfortable and safer across the entire payload range.

The optional DRIVE-RITE air suspension is exactly what every Ford Transit owner needs.

BENEFITS OF DRIVE-RITE AIR SUSPENSION:

  • IMPROVES VEHICLE STABILITY AND CONTROL
  • INCREASES COMFORT AND SAFETY
  • PREVENTS LONGITUDINAL ROLL
  • MAINTAINS CONSTANT GROUND CLEARANCE
  • REDUCES TRANSVERSE ROLL WHEN THE CARGO COMPARTMENT IS UNEVENLY LOADED
  • REDUCES FATIGUE LOADS OF SUSPENSION ELEMENTS
  • HIGH QUALITY COMPONENTS MADE IN THE USA, GERMANY AND IRELAND
  • AIR SPRINGS FROM FIRESTONE (World’s No.1 Air Spring)
  • EASY INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE
  • DRIVE-RITE HAS MORE THAN 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN THE DEVELOPMENT AND PRODUCTION OF AIR SUSPENSIONS
  • OEM AND TUV CERTIFICATES

A complex approach

DRIVE-RITE air suspension kits are easy to install, require no additional mechanical work (drilling or welding) and meet the highest quality standards. Branded DRIVE-RITE control systems are available as an option.