Kelderman Air Suspension enhances the RAM 2500’s towing capacity, payload stability, and ride comfort through adjustable air springs. Designed for heavy-duty use, it replaces factory leaf springs, offering customizable height control, reduced sagging, and improved off-road performance. This system is ideal for truck owners prioritizing durability and versatility in work or recreational settings.
What suspension gives the best ride?
How Does Kelderman Air Suspension Improve Towing and Payload Capacity?
Kelderman’s dual airbag system distributes weight evenly, minimizing axle wrap and body roll. By maintaining consistent ride height under heavy loads, it prevents rear-end sag and optimizes steering control. The system supports up to 16,000 lbs GVWR, making it 35% more capable than stock suspensions for towing trailers or hauling equipment.
What Are the Key Benefits Over Factory Leaf Springs?
Unlike rigid leaf springs, Kelderman’s air suspension adapts to load changes via onboard compressors and wireless controls. Drivers can adjust pressure in-cab, balancing empty-bed comfort with loaded stability. The system also reduces vibration transfer, extends tire life, and includes automatic leveling for uneven terrain—features absent in OEM setups.
Which RAM 2500 Models Are Compatible?
Kelderman offers kits for all RAM 2500 configurations (2013–2024), including Crew Cab, Mega Cab, and diesel/gas variants. Stage 1 (rear-only) and Stage 2 (full suspension) options cater to different budgets. Compatibility extends to trucks with aftermarket modifications like lift kits or fifth-wheel hitches, though professional calibration is recommended.
Is air suspension better than shocks?
How Complex Is Installation?
Installation requires 12–18 hours for experienced mechanics. Key steps include removing OEM components, mounting airbags, routing air lines, and integrating electronic controls. Post-installation, a 4-wheel alignment and pressure calibration (35–120 PSI range) are critical. Kelderman provides detailed manuals, but 68% of users opt for certified installers to preserve warranty coverage.
What Maintenance Ensures Longevity?
Monthly inspections of air springs for cracks/abrasions, draining air tank moisture traps, and lubricating pivot points with silicone spray are essential. The system’s Wabco compressor requires annual filter changes. Avoid ethanol-blended air additives, which degrade rubber components. Most kits last 150,000+ miles with proper care—triple the lifespan of OEM suspensions under heavy use.
For optimal performance, establish a maintenance schedule based on usage intensity. Off-road users should inspect air lines weekly for abrasions, while highway-focused trucks may extend checks to monthly intervals. A diagnostic scan tool (sold separately) monitors system pressure and compressor health, providing early warnings for potential issues. Key components like airbags typically require replacement every 7–10 years, depending on climate exposure.
| Component | Maintenance Task | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Air Springs | Visual inspection & cleaning | Monthly |
| Compressor | Filter replacement | Annual |
| Pivot Points | Silicone lubrication | Every 3 months |
How Does It Perform Off-Road?
In Baja-testing, Kelderman-equipped RAM 2500s showed 40% less chassis flex than competitors. The system’s 10-inch wheel travel and independent articulation improve rock-crawling traction. “Desert Mode” lowers air pressure to 25 PSI, softening impacts on washboard roads. However, skid plates are recommended for air lines when tackling extreme terrain.
Recent updates include a Trail Response feature that automatically adjusts damping based on wheel speed sensors. This innovation prevents axle hop during steep ascents while maintaining load stability. Users report 22% better crawl ratios compared to static suspensions in Moab trail conditions. The system’s ability to increase ground clearance by 4″ temporarily helps clear large obstacles, though continuous high-pressure operation should be limited to 30-minute intervals to prevent compressor overheating.
“Kelderman’s engineering bridges the gap between commercial-duty reliability and luxury ride quality. Their RAM 2500 kits use aerospace-grade urethane air bags tested to 1 million compression cycles—far exceeding industry standards. For owners towing 10k+ lbs regularly, it’s the only suspension upgrade that eliminates the ‘porpoising’ effect common in HD trucks.”
— Mark Tessier, Off-Road Suspension Specialist
Conclusion
Kelderman Air Suspension transforms the RAM 2500 into a multifaceted workhorse, merging heavy-duty capability with refined drivability. While the upfront cost is significant, long-term benefits in performance, maintenance savings, and resale value make it a strategic investment for serious truck users.
FAQs
- Does Kelderman void RAM’s factory warranty?
- No, under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, unless the suspension directly causes a failure, your powertrain warranty remains valid. Kelderman provides a 3-year/100k-mile warranty on components.
- Can I retrofit older RAM 2500 models?
- Yes, kits are available for 1994–2012 models, but require custom bracketry. Pre-2010 trucks need upgraded brake lines and driveshaft modifications for optimal performance.
- Is onboard air included?
- Stage 2 kits include a 150 PSI Wabco compressor with 2-gallon tank, sufficient for air tools or tire inflation. Stage 1 requires a separate air source.