Publish Time: 2025-04-29 Origin: Site
When it comes to trailers, having the right suspension system is key for a smooth ride. Air ride suspension helps make the ride smoother, especially for sensitive or heavy cargo by absorbing bumps. This system uses air bags trailer to cushion the ride, reducing road shock and protecting what’s inside the trailer.
A trailer with air ride for trailers uses air bags to adjust to the weight of the trailer and the load. The system inflates and deflates to keep the trailer level, no matter what you’re carrying. This makes it better than traditional leaf spring suspensions, which can be rougher on the road.
Some trailers, like van air ride trailers or air ride horse trailers, especially benefit from this technology. It provides better cargo protection, a smoother ride, and keeps everything balanced.
An air ride trailer uses a system that combines air bags and a compressor. The air compressor pumps air into the air bags, which act like springs. This lets the system absorb shocks and keep the trailer level.
The key parts of the air ride trailer suspension include:
Air Bags (Air Springs): These are rubber bags that inflate to absorb shocks.
Height Control Valves (HCV): These valves help keep the trailer at the right height by adjusting air pressure.
Air Ride Trailer Axles: These axles work with the air bags to provide better balance and smoother movement.
This system is more effective than leaf spring suspensions, which can be stiff and uncomfortable. Air ride on trailer provides better load management, which makes for a more stable ride.
Air ride trailer suspension is made up of several important parts:
Air Bags (Air Springs): These bags are the main shock absorbers. They cushion the trailer and protect the load.
Air Compressor and Air Lines: These parts manage the compressed air that fills the air bags.
Shock Absorbers: These reduce bounce and help stabilize the ride.
Height Control Valve (HCV): Keeps the trailer's ride height steady, no matter the load.
There are different types of air ride systems. Some are designed for lighter loads, while others, like Dexter Smart-Axl or STi Air Ride, are built for heavy-duty trailers.
If you have a trailer with leaf springs, you can upgrade it to air ride trailer suspension. This is especially helpful for improving ride quality. To convert, you'll need a kit that attaches air ride components to the trailer frame.
The process involves removing the leaf springs and installing the air bags, compressor, and other parts. This upgrade can make the ride much smoother, especially for trailers carrying fragile cargo like horses or electronics.
Feature | Air Ride Suspension for Trailers | Leaf Spring Suspension |
|---|---|---|
Ride Quality | Smooth, absorbs shocks well | Stiff, less shock absorption |
Load Equalization | Adjusts air pressure for balance | Relies on mechanical equalizer |
Ride Height Maintenance | Consistent, adjusts as needed | Fixed height, sags under load |
Suspension Travel | Up to 5 inches or more | Limited to around 2.5 inches |
Noise and Vibration | Reduced noise and vibration | More noise and vibration |
Cost | Higher cost, more parts | Lower cost, simpler design |
Maintenance | Needs air system upkeep | Needs occasional spring checks |
The air ride trailer suspension system offers a much smoother ride and better load balance than leaf spring suspensions.
The cost of air ride on trailers varies based on the system and trailer type. Conversion kits for leaf spring trailers can cost between $1,850 and $3,700. While the initial price is higher, the benefits of air ride equipped trailers, such as smoother rides and reduced maintenance, often make it a good investment.
Systems like Timbren Dakota Air or STi Air Ride are popular choices for upgrading trailers to air ride suspension.
Air ride suspension is used in many types of trailers:
Air Ride Horse Trailers: Systems like STi Air Ride help keep the ride smooth for horses, reducing fatigue during travel.
Van Air Ride Trailers: These trailers benefit from air ride trailer suspension by offering a practical solution for lighter weight, better cargo protection, and custom configurations.
Torsion Axle Air Ride Systems: Combining air ride with torsion axles can provide even better results for certain trailer types.
The technology continues to improve, with systems that mix leaf springs and air bags for more customized solutions.
Air ride suspension for trailers offers many benefits, including a warranty that provides protection against manufacturing defects. It provides a smoother ride, better cargo protection, and helps manage heavy loads, including those up to 30,000 lbs, and load distribution. What sets our air ride suspension apart is our commitment to customization. Whether you're hauling heavy equipment or fragile cargo, air ride trailer suspension ensures stability and comfort.
Though it can be more expensive than traditional suspensions, the long-term savings in maintenance and improved ride quality make it worth the investment. For those looking for the best performance, upgrading to an air ride equipped trailer is a smart choice.