Ram Air Ride Suspension is an advanced vehicle suspension system that uses compressed air and adaptive damping to deliver a smoother ride, improved load management, and adjustable height. It dynamically adjusts to road conditions, enhancing comfort and stability. Ideal for trucks and heavy-duty vehicles, it outperforms traditional coil or leaf spring systems by balancing performance and adaptability.
How do I choose the right suspension?
How Does Ram Air Ride Suspension Differ from Traditional Systems?
Unlike rigid coil or leaf springs, Ram Air Ride uses air-filled bellows and electronic sensors to adjust stiffness and height in real-time. This eliminates the “bounce” effect in trucks and maintains consistent handling, even under heavy loads. Traditional systems lack this adaptability, leading to uneven tire wear and reduced comfort.
What Are the Key Benefits of Ram Air Ride Suspension?
Key benefits include superior ride comfort, adjustable ride height, improved towing capacity, and reduced wear on tires and chassis. Its adaptive nature ensures optimal traction on rough terrain and minimizes body roll during sharp turns. Fuel efficiency can also improve due to reduced aerodynamic drag at lower ride heights.
One often overlooked advantage is the system’s ability to compensate for payload shifts. For example, when towing a trailer, the suspension automatically redistributes weight to prevent sagging, which enhances braking stability. Additionally, drivers can switch between preset modes—such as “Sport” for tighter cornering or “Comfort” for highway cruising—tailoring the ride to their needs. Modern iterations even integrate with GPS to anticipate road conditions, like potholes or steep inclines, and adjust damping proactively.
What suspension gives the best ride?
| Feature | Ram Air Ride | Traditional Suspension |
|---|---|---|
| Adjustability | Real-time height/stiffness | Fixed |
| Load Management | Automatic leveling | Manual adjustments |
| Terrain Adaptation | Yes | No |
Which Vehicles Are Best Suited for Ram Air Ride Suspension?
Heavy-duty trucks, RVs, and luxury SUVs benefit most from Ram Air Ride. Trucks gain enhanced load-leveling for towing, while SUVs achieve a balance of off-road capability and on-road refinement. Commercial vehicles, like ambulances and fire trucks, also use it to stabilize equipment during emergencies.
How Do You Maintain a Ram Air Ride Suspension System?
Regularly inspect air springs for leaks, ensure the compressor is debris-free, and replace desiccant in the air dryer every 50,000 miles. Use manufacturer-recommended lubricants for linkages. Avoid overloading beyond the system’s capacity, as excessive strain can damage valves and sensors.
Seasonal maintenance is critical. In winter, moisture buildup in air lines can freeze, causing pressure drops. Installing a heated compressor or using ethanol-based air dryer additives mitigates this risk. For off-road enthusiasts, cleaning the bellows after mud or salt exposure prevents premature wear. Professionals recommend a bi-annual diagnostic scan to check for error codes in the electronic control module, which can detect issues like slow leaks or sensor malfunctions before they escalate.
Why Is Ram Air Ride Suspension More Expensive Than Alternatives?
The system’s complexity—including air compressors, sensors, and electronic controls—increases upfront costs. However, long-term savings from reduced maintenance and improved fuel efficiency often offset initial investments. Retrofitting older vehicles also adds labor expenses, making it pricier than installing passive suspensions.
Can Ram Air Ride Suspension Be Retrofitted to Older Vehicles?
Yes, aftermarket kits are available for most trucks and SUVs, but compatibility varies. Retrofitting requires chassis modifications, electrical work for sensors, and installing the air compressor. Professional installation is recommended to ensure proper calibration and avoid voiding warranties on newer components.
“Ram Air Ride is a game-changer for heavy-duty applications. Its ability to maintain ride height under extreme loads prevents axle wrap and driveline vibration, which are common issues in traditional setups. However, users must prioritize maintenance—neglecting air leaks can lead to compressor failure.” — Industry Specialist, Commercial Vehicle Engineering
FAQs
- Does Ram Air Ride Suspension work in extreme cold?
- Yes, but ensure the air dryer’s desiccant is fresh to prevent moisture freeze in lines.
- Can I adjust the suspension manually?
- Most systems offer manual overrides via dash controls or mobile apps, allowing preset height adjustments.
- How long do air springs typically last?
- With proper care, air springs last 80,000–100,000 miles before requiring replacement.