It is very important for every car enthusiast not only to keep his car safe and sound, but also to improve it every day. There are more than enough amateurs in our country! For this, people buy their own garages, a huge number of different tools and spend a lot of time. And this is correct, because, as you know, it is better to do everything yourself well than to trust a stranger and get something dubious.

There are several ways to improve a car:

Cleaning the internal system and interior. This will provide the vehicle with easy operation and good looks.

Install a zero resistance air filter. This will facilitate the operation of the internal motor and reduce the risk of sudden breakdown.

Change tires and wheels. The stability of the wheels on the road will improve, and with balanced alloy wheels, even the handling of the car.

Clean the exhaust manifold. This will ease the bandwidth, which is very budgetary.

Replace some parts of the brake system. It will provide your family with more safety and give you confidence on the road.

Replacing the suspension of a passenger car with pneumatic

There is one more small point that will help you improve a passenger car - improve or completely change the suspension to pneumatic. This will help to completely change the comfort and handling of the car. But what if there is no money for this, and there is only an opportunity to collect it yourself? How to correctly install the air suspension of a passenger car with your own hands? The answer is to figure it out and make it by hand.

First, it is necessary to acquire all the constituent elements of this system. Compressor, pneumatic bags, connecting pipes, control units, pressure gauges, valves and air injection cylinders are required. All this can be bought inexpensively in mechanical and electrical stores; it will not be difficult to find this if the model of your car is widely known and widespread in Russia. If buying everything separately is not an option, then you can buy a full set of equipment, but you will have to spend about 30 thousand rubles.

Now, briefly about how to replace such a thing as air suspension. First of all, it is necessary to disassemble the front suspension, but leave the original housing of the support legs. Next, we bore the body to the required size of the pneumatic cylinder. We replace the suspension struts with air bags. This part of the work is the most difficult and accurate, because it requires care and caution. After the above procedures, we lay the tubes connected to the cylinders and the receiver from the back side. It is convenient to install the receiver in the trunk, place and strengthen the pressure gauges there.

Car air suspension pressure

The pressure must be distributed correctly. Due to the congestion of the front part, we set 8 atmospheres for the front wheels, and 6. For the rear wheels, we will have to make the structure heavier, but add a compressor. The last step is the simplest - you just need to add the electrics: wiring, fuses, switches. Their arrangement should be harmonious and unique for each vehicle.

A car air suspension is a suspension by which you can adjust the height of the body relative to the road, change the ground clearance for off-road travel.

What is air suspension?

Air suspension is used for trucks and various trailers. This suspension is also used in business class cars. It can be the basis for existing similar pendants.

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The main purpose of this device is ensuring higher road safety and comfort when moving. Some business cars are equipped with pneumatic elements at the heart of the adaptive suspension.

Air suspensions can be classified into three main types. it single-circuit suspensions, double-circuit and four-circuit... The air suspension is often included in a ready-made vehicle package, and can also be installed independently. If you install the suspension yourself, you have the option of manually adjusting the body height. What is the difference between all three types:

1. Single-circuit suspension is designed for one axis machine (back or front). Single-circuit suspension is often installed on trucks, where the emphasis is on adjusting the rear axle of the vehicle, depending on the load on the body.

2. Double-circuit air suspension can be installed on two axles and one. This allows two axes to be controlled. But if the dual-circuit suspension is put on only one axle, then it is possible to independently adjust each wheel.

3. Four-circuit air suspension is a complex system. In this mode all four wheels can be adjusted, the back-up system is carried out. Such a pneumatic system is controlled using. Support pressure regulation is carried out with the assistance of special sensors.

The basis of the air suspension structure consists of a control unit, special sensors, a compressor for air supply, a receiver, pneumatic elements for each wheel and a control unit. When the suspension is working automatically, body height is adjustable depending on speed, tilt etc. The operation of automatic and manual adjustment is slightly different. But in general, the principle and purpose have the same meaning.

What cars does it come from the factory on?

It is interesting to know that one of the first cars equipped with air suspension was Citroen DS in 1955... And imagine, in the very first days, this car model received a huge number of applications, a third of which were made literally within the first hour.

Serial production of the Citroen DS was the first to include air suspension. Today, also, the production of cars of this brand with such a complete set continues, as well as such cars as Toyota, Mercedes, etc. The air suspension is better to use together with the standard suspension. It will, as it were, take on part of the load, working as an auxiliary element.

To be able to adjust the height of the body relative to the road lane, you can install an air suspension and use it in conjunction with the standard suspension. Cars that are designed to carry various loads, with large bodies and medium-sized trailers, available with built-in pneumatic system... For example, such as Mercedes, Renault Master, etc. Also various models of dump trucks, large-sized trucks for transportation of large loads. In these types of vehicles, a pneumatic system is a must. It facilitates the movement of the car and makes the ride easier and more comfortable.

What machines can you install yourself?

How to make an air suspension yourself and on which car models can you install it? In practice, manufacturing is not particularly difficult. Contrary to popular belief that such an installation is unreliable, this process is quite effective and realistically feasible.

You can design and install yourself air suspension for VAZ car... There are some important points to keep in mind. The most difficult moment in the manufacture of a suspension for a VAZ is the replacement of shock absorbers with pneumatic cushions. It is better to use the original rack body for support. It is necessary to take into account the features of a specific VAZ model and the type of pneumatic cylinders used.

To design an air suspension for a VAZ car, you will need a set of certain parts and mechanisms. No worries. There are no difficulties in this process.

What is needed for this:

1. Compressor.

2. A set of 4 pneumatic cushions. When selecting pillows, specific models can be used specifically for VAZ, and there can also be others that are suitable from other car models.

3. Receiver for air injection. It should be cylindrical for a VAZ sedan. For hatchbacks, the receiver is shaped like a spare wheel.

4. You will need 4 pcs. solenoid valves.

5. Connecting tubes.

6. Two pressure gauges.

Directly during the manufacturing process, you may need to buy other related parts, wires, fasteners, etc. Approximate the cost of all elements in total will be from 800 to 1200 dollars... It depends on the individual parameters of the design and the car model.

Advantages and disadvantages

Like any device, air suspension also has advantages and disadvantages. One of the advantages of having a pneumatic system is the absence of noise and the smoothness of the vehicle. A big plus is automatic clearance adjustment and the stiffness of the struts during movement. These qualities are inherent in factory installation systems. Regarding the four-circuit pneumatic system - manual setting, with such a model with automatic control it is not used at all. Because it is a very complex and costly process to do it yourself.

The disadvantage is low probability of successful repair... For example, pneumatic struts, failing, already not repairable... All you need is replacement parts.

The cost of the kit and the installation itself

If we talk about the cost of the pneumatic system, then it is different. Depends on the type (single-circuit, double-circuit, four-circuit). And also the price depends on the manufacturer and supplier. In the price range in Ukraine the cost of pneumatic elements and kits can be from 4,000 to 25,000 UAH. Depends again on the type of model.

The installation cost depends on the needs. On average, it can be from UAH 2,500 to 10,000. It depends on your goals and individual wishes. Before proceeding with the installation, you need to clearly and in detail explain to the master all the nuances. Because each revision is an additional cost. It is not always necessary to buy completely all the parts to assemble a kit. For this, it is advisable to get the advice of a specialist in this area. After that already summarize the entire cost of installation and related items workflow.

The possibilities for tuning your car are almost endless. Starting with external and ending with cardinal technical changes. One of the biggest changes can be the air suspension, which will make people pay attention to your car. This device has many advantages:

• the car becomes more dynamic;
• increased stability;
• air suspension relieves the load on the suspension, thereby increasing its resource;
• the car will become more comfortable.

The main disadvantage is the price. Installing air suspension in a tuning studio will cost a pretty penny. It is this factor that discourages most motorists from adding this tuning element. But if you have the desire and opportunity, then the air suspension with your own hands is not as difficult as it might seem.

Where to start, of course, with the collection of the necessary components. The air suspension is a rather rare tuning element, so it is difficult to find an assembled one.

Components

Air suspension cushions are what will have to spend the most money, in fact, the cushion replaces the spring and shock absorber, as for the choice, it all depends on your car. At the moment, there is a wide selection on the market, you can definitely choose the right part for yourself.

Installation

The installation process on modern vehicles is very similar.

It all starts with removing the native rack. For this

1. Unscrew the nut on the steering end and pull it out of the rack.
2. Unscrew the nuts securing the strut to the steering knuckle and securing the upper support.
3. Remove the brake hose.

In the future, from the old rack, you will need a travel stop for the upper support and a support with a bearing. Further events can develop in two ways

The finished air suspension is installed in the reverse order. Fasten the upper strut support to the steering knuckle, put the steering tip and brake hose in place. Next, you deal with the hoses (it all depends on the device of the car, in principle there is nothing complicated) and install the valves. Install the electronics (toggle switches, start buttons and wires) and connect everything.

Functional check

The ideal test should be done indoors. Fill the system with air (8 atm is enough), close the garage and listen carefully so as not to miss possible air leaks. If the first step is successful, check all connections with soapy water. This is followed by a final check for raising and lowering the vehicle. That's all, the air suspension is installed by hand. This is how, following the instructions, you can personalize your car, please yourself and surprise those around you.

There will be no bagel versus sleeve comparisons in this topic. High quality Pindos air bags will not be mentioned.

Only availability, simplicity, cheapness.

So, we will talk about Scania cockpit pillows.

Ready-made cockpit pillows are definitely great and wonderful. Modified with a file - installed. What could be easier.

But what if the pillow cannot be installed in this form, if you need other characteristics, less travel?

One of the most common problems when installing air suspension on a VAZ PP is the location of the lower bracket of the rear cushion. If you put it on a spring cup, then the plastic part of the bracket will be higher than the rack body, and when the suspension breaks down, there will be a blow to this same plastic bracket. In addition, he will not let the car sink below.
Well, we saw off the cup, grind out the retaining ring and weld it 5-7 cm below the spring cup. The problem with the protruding bracket is solved, but another problem appears.

The spring cup is at the level of the rubber profile, and lowering the lower point of the cushion below, we set the bracket just opposite the wheel - accordingly, there is a chance to wipe the cushion, especially when installing wheels of greater width and diameter.
The solution to the problem has several options: installing bagels, moving the mount back up, installing spacers on the wheels, shortening the pillow with the installation of other braces.

Another equally common problem is the mismatch between the inner diameter of the cushion and the diameter of the A-pillar housing. The same problem can be attributed to the inability to put on the pillow through the outer nut or ledge on the rack.

This problem is also solved in different ways.

Someone sharpens plastic:

Someone grinds special cases:

Well, one more option:

All of these options require only a full-length sleeve to be fitted.

But what if you really want a short walker or you need to reduce the length of the sleeve?
This issue cannot be resolved without solving the problem of sleeve sealing.

In the factory version, the sleeve is crimped with a special ring. The ring has certain strength characteristics and resistance to corrosion, in addition, a special machine is needed to crimp this ring (like those that crimp RVD). All this makes the crimping method practically impracticable at home.

But there is one relatively simple way to shorten the Scania pillows.
Quote: " The process of shortening the same Scaniev pillow is as follows. The elastic is cut with a knife along the edge of the metal ring. The metal ring slips out with little effort without an elastic band. We shorten the elastic of the pillow to the required length. We put the same metal ring on the pillow and press it into place like an oil seal using a machine or a press and soap solution. On Scaniev pillows, it is better to shorten the pillows from above, since they have a metal upper support.
In this way, the pillows in this photo are shortened. Although the rings are differently machined for the convenience of folding the pillow. You can sharpen new rings, but the dimensions must be taken from the originals."

Knowing the general principle, you can order the necessary components for the turner:

It is not very convenient to look for a press every time to assemble a disassembly. Therefore, it is possible to seal with bolted cones:

There is one more way. This method is based on the principle of connecting the union nut for plastic pipes CAMMOZI.

Mercedes Sprinter is the most famous commercial vehicle in the world. On its basis, most of the various models of cargo and cargo-passenger vehicles, vans, as well as on-board platforms have been developed. However, all the modifications presented are united by one significant drawback - the leaf spring suspension, which does not always cope with the maximum loads of the car when a heavy load is applied to the rear axle. To solve the problem and keep the vehicle working properly, we recommend installing a rear air suspension on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. Our company presents you with a wide selection of pneumatic elements for the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter suspension directly from the manufacturer, which allows you to set the lowest possible price for the entire range of products.

The main purpose of the systems presented in the catalog is to increase the ability of the car to work with the maximum permissible load, reduce the vibrations of the car on uneven roads, and also make the movement comfortable and safe for the driver, passengers or cargo. In addition, with the help of the pneumatic system, you can slightly increase the ground clearance, which is very convenient off-road.

What give air bags installed in the springs for a Mercedes?

Eliminate suspension breakdown, vehicle roll, increase comfort and energy intensity, the suspension becomes assembled and quiet. With air springs in the springs, you can adjust the ground clearance and suspension stiffness, the car will not sag when fully loaded. The effect is especially noticeable if you use them on a bad road (gravel, pits, bumps, potholes, dirt road, asphalt waves, railway crossings, etc.). Also, if the wheel rubs against the arches, then you can get rid of it by using air springs in the springs.

BlackStone air bellows are suitable for vehicles where the shock absorber is separate from the spring. The ✔ sign means that the shock absorber is installed separately from the spring and installation is possible, with the ✘ sign - cars with a MacPherson strut are marked, or where it is structurally impossible to install air bags. Sign ✐ - there is an installation manual / photo. To go to the instructions, you must click on the icon itself. The catalog does not give one hundred percent guarantee that the pneumatic element will fit your car, since there are structural differences in the model's configurations or their modifications.

C230 ✔ BlackStone ME air bellows
C280 ✔
C350 ✔
C55 ✔
CL500 ✘
CL55 ✘
CL600 ✘
CL65 ✘
CLK350 ✔
CLK500 ✔
CLK55 ✔
CLS500 ✔
CLS55 ✔
E320 CDI ✔ BlackStone ME air bellows
E350 ✔
E500 ✔
E55 ✔
G500 ✔
G55 ✔
GLK (204) ✔ Inner diameter - 72 mm, Height - 220 mm. Fit
ML350 ✘
ML500 ✘
R350 ✘
R500 ✘
S350 ✘
S430 ✘
S500 ✘
S55 ✘
S600 ✘
S65 ✘
SL500 ✘
SL55 ✘
SL600 ✘
SL65 ✘
SLK280 ✔
SLK350 ✔
SLK55 ✔

How to determine if a BlackStone air spring will fit if there is no information in the catalog?

It is necessary to measure the inner diameter and height of the spring in the normal state without a jack and without a load (measurements are easier to carry out in a pit):

1. Make sure the vehicle is on level ground with the springs under the weight of the body.
	2. Measure the INNER diameter of the spring. If the spring is tapered or barrel-shaped, measurements must be taken at the points of maximum and minimum diameter.
3. Measure the height of the INNER space of the spring vertically without taking into account the standard buffers (bumpers) of the compression stroke - they must be dismantled.
	4. Check the interior for bolts, sharp objects, and bumps. If there are any, they must either be eliminated or covered with bumpers.
5. If there are holes in the lower arm and / or support on the side of the body with a diameter of more than 20 mm, they must also be closed with bumpers "W" and / or "F".
	6. Select the most suitable pneumatic element according to the dimensions on the plate below. The free height space can always be filled with bumpers "W" and / or "F". The pneumatic element will fill the excess space in diameter when pressure is applied.

Sizes of pneumatic bellows:

Pneumatic elements:	The size:	Vendor code:
	Height: 147 mm. (+ pump valve = 178 mm.) Diameter: 76 mm.	295.147.76S
	Height: 202 mm, diameter: 88 mm.	295.202.88M
	Height: 202 mm., Diameter: 88 mm.	295.202.90MHD
	Height: 202 mm. (+ pump valve = 233 mm.), diameter: 88 mm.

This device has been used in the automotive industry for about 60 years. Initially, it was only installed on trucks and semi-trailers. But progress does not stand still, so air suspension is now also installed on passenger cars. True, not at all. But what about those who want to drive in comfort, but have not yet saved up money for a business-class car? The answer is simple: install the air suspension yourself. We will talk about how to do this today.

What is air suspension

In short, an air suspension is a device that lacks spring dampers. The driver can adjust the parameters of this device at his discretion, and this can be done right on the go. When installing the air suspension, the standard springs, springs and torsion bars are replaced with reinforced rubber air cushions. The elastic element in the air bags is air, which is forced by a special system, which includes the following parts:

1. Compressor.
2. Distribution valve system.
3. Control block.
4. Receiver.

According to the method of control, air suspensions are manual and automatic.

• in manually controlled suspensions, the car owner independently sets the ground clearance (usually such devices are supplemented with pneumatic shock absorbers, so that the driver can manually set not only the ground clearance, but also the suspension stiffness);
• in an automatic suspension, the electronic control unit will choose the ground clearance by itself, relying on such parameters as speed, weight, side roll of the body, etc. improve handling, especially when cornering;

By design, air suspensions are subdivided into:

• single-circuit. In them, air bags with the same pressure are installed on one of the axles;
• double-circuit. Here, the pillows are also installed on one axis, but the pressure in them can be different;
• four-circuit. They are considered the best (and most expensive) because they use microcomputers, pressure sensors and a system of four separate valves, one for each wheel;

The most popular place for installing a receiver and compressor in a passenger car is the trunk, or rather, the spare wheel niche. Of course, the spare wheel will have to either be moved to another place, or removed completely, compensating for its absence with a tire sealant.

Is it worth installing an air suspension?

In short: yes.

Now let's take a closer look.

What determines a comfortable ride without shaking and strong rocking of the car? Two parameters are important here: the mass of the car and the stiffness of the shock absorber springs. If the car is light and the springs are stiff, shaking is provided to the driver. If the car is heavy and the springs are soft, the rolling is ensured, as in the sea. This problem is aggravated by the fact that it is impossible, in principle, to match the stiffness of the springs and the mass of the car, since the mass is constantly changing, because the car has a different number of passengers, it can carry additional cargo, etc.

It is also impossible to change the stiffness of the spring shock absorbers. Moreover, it falls over time (due to metal fatigue), and along with the rigidity, the vehicle's ground clearance also decreases.

To regulate the stiffness of the shock absorbers, an air suspension was created, the elements of which are able to adapt to the constantly changing parameters of the car, providing the driver with a comfortable ride in any conditions. Here are its advantages:

• the vehicle's clearance and the rigidity of its struts are automatically adjusted;
• the machine becomes more resistant to overloads: in case of heavy workload, the stiffness of the struts rises to the maximum, which avoids damage to other suspension parts;
• improved handling: driving becomes smoother, the roll of the car on bends is minimal;
• when using a four-circuit automatic suspension, the longitudinal roll of the car also tends to a minimum, which makes the ride even more comfortable;

This device also has disadvantages:

• pneumatic shock absorbers cannot be repaired. In case of failure, they can only be replaced;
• the rubber of the air bags is sensitive to cold and dirt (more on this will be discussed below);

The hydraulic suspensions should also be mentioned here. They perform the same function as pneumatic ones, but their elastic element is a special fluid. And the main difference between hydraulic suspensions is their increased reliability (and a very high price, which is unlikely to be affordable for an ordinary car enthusiast). For example: the resource of the air suspension is on average 200 thousand km, while the hydraulic suspension can easily cover up to 400 thousand km.

From all of the above, a simple conclusion follows: air suspension is a good alternative to both stock springs and hydraulics with its exorbitant price.

Air suspension installation process

Before starting the installation of the air suspension, it is necessary to determine what we need for work.

Tools and materials

Sequence of actions when installing air suspension

• the trunk of the car opens, the spare wheel is removed from the niche;
• on the side walls of the trunk there are plastic plugs that hold the mat. They pry off with a flat screwdriver and are removed;
• after that, the rug itself is removed. Opens access to the rack nuts and the holes that are required for wiring;
• the compressor is connected to the control unit and the receiver as indicated in the instructions. After that, the assembled structure is installed in the spare wheel well;
• then the wiring is connected to the receiver and compressor. Connection is carried out in strict accordance with the instructions on the labels of the wires;
• the connected wires are collected in one bundle, which is led out into the passenger compartment through an opening located under one of the rear seats;
• then the harness is laid along one of the walls of the cabin, under the rugs and is displayed in the engine compartment;
• there the wires are connected to the battery, ground and to the fuse box, as indicated in the operating instructions for the air suspension control unit;
• now one of the rear wheels is jacked up, after which, using a 22-mm open-end wrench, the 4 lower fastening nuts on the rear pillar are unscrewed;
• using a socket head 24 through the hole in the trunk, the upper mounting nut of the rear pillar is unscrewed;
• after unscrewing the upper nut, the stand is removed. A similar operation is carried out with the second C-pillar. In place of the removed racks, pneumatic racks are installed from the air suspension kit;
• to remove the front struts, 4 fastening nuts are unscrewed on each of them with an open-end wrench for 22;
• then the brake hoses are disconnected and removed, the ABS sensor plug is manually disconnected (if there is one in the car);
• the front pillars are removed, the racks from the kit are installed in their place and securely screwed on;
• pneumatic lines are connected to the compressor, receiver and control unit in accordance with the instructions, after which the hoses are removed through the hole in the trunk;
• the resulting air line is displayed in the engine compartment and connected;

Video: installing the suspension on a Mercedes Viano

Air suspension control

Any high-quality air suspension is supplied with a controller, which is installed in the passenger compartment. On its display, the driver can see both the pressure in the air bags and in the receiver. The car owner can choose the units of pressure measurement at his discretion. Control units for high-quality four-circuit suspensions allow drivers to choose from several preset modes with a certain ground clearance (in particular, the Air-Lift air suspension, which was discussed above, has 8 such modes). The driver can select the required mode with just one click of a button.

Moreover, over time, the driver will not need to click the buttons at all, since the system will gradually "study" the car, "get used" to the conditions of its operation, to the driving style of the car owner and will itself keep the optimum pressure in the air bags.

The air suspension is disengaged from the same controller. When disengaged, the system sets the average ride height, after which the air bags begin to work like conventional spring dampers.

Pneumatic shock absorbers are the main advantage of air suspensions. But they are also their weak point. This moment is especially pronounced when the machine is operated in conditions close to extreme.

Air shock absorbers have 2 enemies: sand and cold.

Self-installation of air suspension is a task for advanced motorists who know exactly what they are doing. For a newbie who got behind the wheel just yesterday, such a task is clearly beyond the power. But experienced car enthusiasts also make mistakes. The most common are homemade products created on pillows ordered over the Internet from China. The quality of rubber in such "products", as a rule, leaves much to be desired. And what problems with management can lead to has already been written above.

Before starting work, disconnect the vehicle battery to prevent short circuits of electrical components. Instructions for disconnecting the battery can be obtained from the vehicle manufacturer.

Terms of work

• Storage temperature 5 ° F (-15 ° C) to 122 ° F (50 ° C).
• Beware of damage to pneumatic lines and cables.
• Installation and dismantling operations must be carried out by qualified personnel.
• Use the vehicle manufacturer's software to diagnose it.

WARNING: Damage to vehicle and air suspension is possible if work is performed in the wrong sequence or when methods are used that are not consistent with this document.

Look in your vehicle manual or your dealer for the location of the jack support points and read the vehicle safety and maintenance instructions. It is strictly forbidden to carry out work under the vehicle if it is not secured with a sufficient degree of reliability. Failure to do so will result in serious injury or death.

Removing the pneumatic rack

1. Set the steering wheel to the straight-ahead position of the vehicle.
2. Raise the vehicle.
3. Remove the front wheel.
4. Disconnect the shock absorber control cable connector located in the wheel arch.

5. Disconnect the stabilizer link.

6. Unscrew the nut securing the lower part of the shock absorber.

7. Unscrew the ball nut and disconnect the lever.

8. Disconnect the harness from the shock absorber.

9. Disconnect the pneumatic line.

10. Remove the air line fittings. To do this, remove the clamping sleeve and the rest of the fastening will be removed from the pipeline.

11. Remove the three (3) top flange nuts.

1. Remove the shock absorber.
2. Dismantling completed.

Dismantling the pneumatic cylinder

1. Dismantling is done from the A-pillar assembly.

2. Install the special puller onto the studs at the top of the strut (the bolt on the puller should rest against the center of the shock absorber top), then install the three (3) nuts that secure the shock absorber to the vehicle body.

3. Tighten three (3) nuts evenly until the top cover snaps downward. This will remove the retaining ring.

4. Use a flat-blade screwdriver to remove the retaining ring.

1. Remove the stripper.

6. Remove the top cover using the clip pliers.

7. Remove the nut securing the air cylinder to the rack.

8. Remove the old cylinder and O-ring. Clean the surface before installing a new air cylinder.

Installation of a pneumatic cylinder

1. Install the shock absorber cover onto the shock absorber. Tap it gently with a hammer until it snaps into place.

2. Take a new air cylinder, lubricate the O-rings on the bottom of it and install it on the shock absorber.

3. Install the jam nut on the damper axle and tighten to the manufacturer's specifications.

4. After tightening the nuts, lubricate the o-ring before installing the cover.

5. Install the retaining ring over the cover before installing the stand.

6. Tighten the three nuts until the cap is pressed into the air cylinder deep enough to secure the latch in place. Remove the tool.

1. The assembly of the pneumatic strut is complete.

Mounting the pneumatic rack

During installation, tighten all bolts and nuts to manufacturer specifications.

1. Installation is carried out upside-down.

2. Remove the white shipping plug and insert the air line into the new air line fitting.

The desire to change their car, adapt it to different operating conditions, give it a sporty spirit or turn it into an all-terrain vehicle makes motorists go on an unprecedented experiment - to install it with their own hands.

But how feasible is the idea? Is it realistic to do it with the help of scrap materials and in your garage? Let's discuss these points in more detail.

Is it advisable to install air suspension on a car?

Let's figure out what air suspension is, and whether it is worth spending money on it.

Air suspension is a damping system that allows you to automatically change the vehicle's ground clearance without the use of physical force.

This type of suspension is considered a universal option, which allows it to be mounted on both passenger cars and trucks.

Installing an air suspension offers a number of benefits:

1. Change of vehicle clearance. Increasing (decreasing) clearance does not require changing springs or making major alterations. A few minutes of adjustment and the suspension sets the required ground clearance.
2. Smooth ride off-road. The disadvantage of spring-loaded shock absorbers is sensitivity to rough roads, which requires maximum attention from the person behind the wheel. With air suspension, it is easier - vibrations are compensated, which reduces the shaking of the vehicle to almost zero.
3. Comfort and handling. Hard or soft springs have strengths and weaknesses. The former are suitable for paved roads, while the latter are suitable for off-road applications. The advantage of air suspension is the smoothing out of the minuses of different springs.
4. No drawdown. The pneumatic suspension guarantees optimum clearance even at maximum load, as the ground clearance is easily adjusted to the desired value. So it doesn't matter how many passengers are inside the vehicle.

Before deciding to install such a suspension, it is worth considering a number of its disadvantages:

1. The cost of air suspension is high, which scares off motorists. The money is used to buy pneumatic bags, an air receiver, a compressor, and other devices.
2. Not maintainability. If any of the elements of the system fails, you will have to change the unit in the complex. This leads to additional costs, which not all motorists are ready for.
3. Insufficient resistance to the negative effects of "chemistry" on the roads, frost, heat and so on. Such factors lead to a decrease in the resource of the node. And if alcohol poured into a pillow can save you from cold weather, only the installation of original and expensive products will save you from "chemistry" on the road.

The schematic diagram of the air suspension looks like this.

Another scheme.

We install the air suspension on the VAZ 2110

Statistics show that motorists are more dissatisfied with the product of the domestic auto industry. That is why the number of tuned "nines", "ten" and other models of AvtoVAZ is growing on the roads.

The principle of selection of components and installation of air suspension for different VAZ models is almost identical.

Let's take the 2110 as an example.

So, for self-installation of the air suspension, you will need the following material:

1. Racks.

Here it is allowed to use factory stands of SAAZ type with oil filling. Purchase costs - 8 thousand rubles.

2. Air suspension cushions.

As an option, the use of fourth-generation Scania pillows mounted under the cab of a truck. The issue price is 3 thousand rubles apiece. For example, such.

3. Receiver for air suspension.

In the role of a receiver, a gas cylinder from the "nine" is suitable. It has several advantages - the presence of a check valve, pressure resistance up to 22 atmospheres, a capacity of up to 45 liters.

All these advantages mean that the vehicle will rise faster. The main disadvantage is the large mass.

Alternatively, it is allowed to use a 25-liter KAMAZ cylinder. The cost of purchasing a cylinder is 2.5 thousand rubles.

It requires two pairs of solenoid valves to operate. Pay attention to quality. Devices must withstand up to 25 atmospheres. Price - 350 rubles apiece.

5. Fittings and tubes.

The best option is the use of PVC pneumatic tubes used in the brake systems of trucks. Tubes are selected with a diameter of 6 and 8 mm. The first (6 mm) are mounted from the inlet valves to the receiver, and the second (8 mm) - from the compressor to the receiver. The price of the issue is 35 rubles per square meter.

6. Compressor.

An excellent option is to install a Berkut P 20 compressor at a cost of 4950 rubles. Advantages - high pumping speed, reliability.

7. Management.

A special system controlled by three toggle switches was used to control the valves. The first starts and stops the rear circuit, the second the front circuit, and the third controls the compressor.

8. Manometer.

A pressure gauge is installed between the receiver and the compressor, as well as a moisture and oil separator. The place of installation in the cabin is determined independently. The issue price is 80 rubles apiece.

Before starting work, it is worth considering the following points:

The algorithm for installing the air suspension is as follows:

• Install stands. There are two options - make new holes or use existing ones (the second method looks preferable).
• Remove the rubber bands and extend the oxygen tubing. Then fasten them to the body part with clamps. In order not to drill the body, drainage holes can be used;

  

• Next, we fasten the tubes with clamps;

  

• Start the rear contour over the beam at the back of the car, and then pull along it;

  

• The gas valve for the gas equipment, which is necessary for venting air and reducing the vehicle's clearance, must be mounted on a special bracket for fixing the fuel tank. Remember the need for a tube margin, which will be required when raising or lowering the vehicle's ground clearance. The tube will be flexible, so it is fixed with clamps;

  

• Installing the front loop takes longer as the tube must be guided through the entire machine. The main difficulty is in the mount. Here you will have to spread your brains and find a suitable place for fixation;

  

  

• Guide the tubes from the front airbags along the steering rods. Then put them into the engine compartment, put the crosspiece, do the piping, put the relief valve and the LPG valve;

  

  

  

• We connect with wires relays, toggle switches, fuses, here you need knowledge in electrics;
• It remains to check the operation of the mechanism. Here it is required to fill the system with air (up to eight atmospheres), close the garage and listen to the system for the fact of leaks. If the ear does not pick up anything, then it is worth checking the joints with a soapy solution.

Finally, the following points should be noted:

It should look like this.

Installing air suspension on Mitsubishi Eclipse GTX 3.0TT AWD

There are a lot of speculations on the Internet that installing air suspension on a Mitsubishi Eclipse often leads to a number of problems. But this is not the case.

If you organize the process correctly and strictly follow the technology, then the result will delight even demanding motorists.

Alternatively, the installation of ready-made equipment from K-Sport or other brands.

But this approach is not rational for the following reasons:

• Costs turn out to be higher than planned;
• The reliability of such a system is minimal;
• The necessary repair kit has to wait for several weeks, or even months.

Thus, self-assembly of component materials looks preferable. Moreover, the market is saturated with everything necessary for work.

So, for the installation of air suspension, you will need five high-quality racks.

To avoid problems and additional costs in the future, it is worth giving preference to original spare parts for the air suspension of Audi, Volkswagen, Mercedes and others.

It is better to consult a specialist here.

You will also need a Berkut-type compressor (it is affordable and has a maximum resource).

Work begins by installing the C-pillars and drilling a few holes in the body under the spare wheel.

New holes are required to install air line transition fittings.

What does the valve block look like?

It remains to check the system for leaks. If there are obvious "spikes", it is worth checking the joints and the quality of the fittings tightening.

The last stage is the removal of jacks and testing of the car.

If the work is done correctly, then the car becomes soft, problems with overcoming high obstacles are eliminated.

When it hits the pit, the air suspension behaves with dignity and withstands the test.

One of the likely problems is proximity to the tire. In such a situation, the installation of a spacer will be required.

A separate point is the body level sensors. They have to be completed separately and even special brackets have to be welded in for subsequent installation.

Sensors from Land Rover are great.

Camber-convergence in the middle position of the suspension does not hurt either, after which the swinging goes away, the speed bumps are softer, small holes are "swallowed" and are almost inaudible in the cabin.

Installing the air suspension on the Gazelle

To mount the air suspension on a Gazelle, you will need the following material:

The greatest difficulty in the installation process is the fastening of the air bags. It is to this moment that we will pay attention.

The algorithm is as follows:

• A cross member is welded with stops installed on it for the installation of pneumatic cushions. Welding the cross member is easy - use the 16th channel;
• Prepare the area under the pillow. If the springs have sagged, then the car should be lifted with jacks;
• Installation starts at the top. First, the top is fixed, after the pillow swings and, in fact, the studs are joined, the holes are drilled. Please note that work should be done at working height. Also make sure the pillows are as far from center as possible. This is necessary to exclude friction of products against the springs under load;
• Installation of airbags on the front axle is not required if the vehicle has a short wheelbase. If the base is long, then you cannot do without doing such work.
• The pillows are installed in two ways - above the springs (in the central part of the beam) or directly to the spring. Both options have drawbacks. So, if you carry out the installation behind the beam, then when the steering wheel is unscrewed, it is possible to graze the newly installed unit. If you put the structure closer to the central part of the beam (above the springs), then the front of the machine is lifted;
• Taurus is bolted to the Gazelle frame, and a special channel structure is provided above the springs. So you have to work with welding to eliminate possible risks for the air suspension;
• The cushions on the front and rear axle are installed from the top and then inflated to the desired height. Once the position of the holes is determined, drill the holes and place the pillow.

For more details, see the photo.

The result of the work is a stiff front suspension. To add softness, place receivers parallel to the pillows using thick tubes.