Tips & Tricks
Air Struts – a deeper look
Air suspension systems come in multiple configurations which defines the product mix between air struts, shock absorbers and air springs. Whenever a system is equipped with complete air strut assemblies, the air springs are integrated onto the struts instead of separately mounted onto the axle. These complete assemblies are typically used for the front suspension. The rear suspension usually features a combination of shock absorbers and air springs. Four-corner air strut set-ups exist as well.
Air springs – a deeper look
Air springs are a defining and recognizable part of the air suspension system. They use the compressive abilities of air and rubber to absorb vibrations and raise or lower the vehicle. How do they actually work, what are they made off and what are the advantages?
Air suspension – how does it actually work?
Although the concept of an air suspension system on passenger cars was already introduced in the sixties, the functioning of the system is still not common knowledge for most. This is partially the reason that quite some workshops do not have air suspension maintenance and repair as part of their service offer. In this newsletter, Arnott explains the general functioning of the system and components.
Tire change – Winter Check
In many countries the end of summer has come and the colder, winter season is ahead of us. To prepare for the change in climate, many car owners take their car to the workshop for a tire change. Winter tires are safer to drive in this often-colder period of rain, hail and snow. Changing tires also provides an opportunity to check the air suspension system. When the wheels are removed, it is easy and convenient to check the condition of the struts, air springs and shock absorbers.
Air Suspension Installation Tips & Tricks
Being the aftermarket air suspension specialist, Arnott is keen to make sure all installers feel confident and are well informed when carrying out an air suspension repair. In this article some valuable tips and tricks are highlighted per product category.
Compressors – a deeper look
When you look at an air suspension system, the ECU (Electronic Control Unit) is often considered to be the brain of the system. Following this line of thought, the compressor can be considered the beating heart of the system. Even though a compressor does not continuously run, when it no longer functions properly, the system will perform poorly and eventually shut down. This makes the compressor a vital component within the air suspension system!
Solenoid Valve Block – a deeper look
The valve block is a small but significant component of the air suspension system. Therefore, it should not be neglected when diagnosing possible system defects. Symptoms that seem to point to a leak in an air spring, might also be a defect in the valve block. Let’s start with explaining the general function of the part before diving deeper.
Benefits of Air Suspension Over Coil Suspension
Nowadays, around 5% of all new passenger cars are equipped with factory-fitted air suspension and this number is growing. In the beginning, air suspension was offered for high end models only, but in the last few years has worked its way down to mid-range passenger cars as well. This change has been driven by steadily growing customer demand for safety, stability and above all driving comfort. Combined, these 3 aspects are something that air suspension can provide best.