From Smooth to Stunning: How to Convert Air Suspension to Coil Springs and Why You Need It

Are you tired of the constant maintenance and potential headaches associated with your air suspension system? Perhaps you’re looking for a more robust and reliable ride, or maybe you just want to save some money. Whatever your reason, converting your air suspension to coil springs can be a great solution. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from understanding the basics to tackling the conversion yourself.

Why Convert to Coil Springs?

Before diving into the conversion process, let’s explore the reasons why you might consider swapping out your air suspension for coil springs.

• Reliability: Coil springs are known for their durability and simplicity. Unlike air suspension systems, they don’t rely on compressed air and are less prone to leaks or malfunctions.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Coil spring systems generally cost less to maintain than air suspension systems. You won’t have to worry about replacing air bags, compressors, or other components as frequently.
• Ride Quality: While air suspension can offer a smooth ride, coil springs can provide a more controlled and predictable handling experience, especially when navigating rough terrain.
• Performance: In some cases, converting to coil springs can improve your vehicle’s performance, particularly if you’re looking for a more responsive and agile handling feel.

Assessing Your Vehicle and Gathering Supplies

The first step is to determine if converting your air suspension to coil springs is even feasible for your vehicle. Some vehicles are designed specifically for air suspension, and converting them might require significant modifications or even be impossible.

Here’s what you need to consider:

• Vehicle Compatibility: Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual or consult with a mechanic to confirm if your vehicle is compatible with a coil spring conversion.
• Availability of Parts: Ensure that coil springs, shocks, and other necessary components are available for your specific vehicle model and year.
• Required Tools: Gather the necessary tools, including wrenches, sockets, jack stands, and a torque wrench.

Once you’ve confirmed compatibility and gathered the necessary tools, you can start planning the conversion.

Removing the Air Suspension System

This is the most challenging part of the conversion process, as it involves dismantling the existing air suspension system.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Raise the Vehicle: Safely lift your vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
2. Disconnect the Air Lines: Carefully disconnect the air lines from the air bags and compressor.
3. Remove the Air Bags: Remove the air bags from the suspension system. You may need to use a wrench or socket to loosen the mounting bolts.
4. Disconnect the Electrical Connections: Disconnect any electrical connections associated with the air suspension system.
5. Remove the Compressor: Remove the air compressor from the vehicle.

Installing the Coil Spring System

After removing the air suspension system, you can begin installing the new coil spring system.

Here’s how:

1. Install the Coil Springs: Position the coil springs on the suspension mounts and secure them with the appropriate nuts and bolts.
2. Install the Shocks: Attach the new shocks to the suspension system.
3. Mount the Wheels: Reinstall the wheels and lower the vehicle.
4. Connect the Electrical Connections: Reconnect any electrical connections that were disconnected during the removal process.
5. Test Drive: Take your vehicle for a test drive to ensure everything is working properly.

Fine-Tuning and Adjustments

After installing the new coil spring system, you may need to make some fine-tuning adjustments to achieve the desired ride height and handling characteristics.

Here’s what you can do:

• Adjust the Ride Height: Use the adjustable spring seats or spacers to fine-tune the ride height of your vehicle.
• Adjust the Shocks: If your shocks have adjustable settings, you can experiment with different settings to find the best handling compromise.

Final Touches and Considerations

Once you’ve made any necessary adjustments, take your vehicle for a final test drive to ensure everything is working smoothly.

Here are some final considerations:

• Alignment: Make sure to have your vehicle’s alignment checked after the conversion to ensure proper tire wear and handling.
• Brakes: If you’ve made significant changes to the ride height, it’s a good idea to inspect and adjust your brakes to ensure they’re functioning correctly.
• Ride Quality: Take some time to get used to the new ride quality of your vehicle. Coil springs offer a different feel compared to air suspension, so it might take some time to adjust.

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Modifications

For those seeking a more customized experience, consider these advanced modifications:

• Adjustable Coilover Kits: These kits offer a wider range of adjustability for ride height, damping, and spring rates, allowing for fine-tuning to your specific preferences.
• Performance Springs and Shocks: Upgrading to performance springs and shocks can enhance handling, cornering, and overall performance.

The End of the Journey: A New Era of Riding

Congratulations! You’ve successfully converted your air suspension to coil springs. You’ve now embraced a more reliable, cost-effective, and potentially even more performance-oriented ride. Enjoy the new feel and the peace of mind that comes with a solid suspension system.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Can I convert my air suspension to coil springs myself?

A: While it’s possible, it’s a complex process that requires mechanical knowledge and experience. If you’re not comfortable working on your vehicle, it’s best to have a qualified mechanic perform the conversion.

Q: Will converting to coil springs affect my vehicle’s warranty?

A: Modifying your vehicle’s suspension system can potentially void your warranty. Consult with your vehicle’s manufacturer or a qualified mechanic for specific information.

Q: How much does it cost to convert air suspension to coil springs?

A: The cost of the conversion varies depending on the vehicle, the complexity of the system, and the parts used. You can expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

Q: What are the benefits of converting to coil springs?

A: Coil springs offer increased reliability, cost-effectiveness, and potentially improved handling and performance compared to air suspension systems.

Q: What are the drawbacks of converting to coil springs?

A: The ride quality might be less plush compared to air suspension, and the conversion process can be complex and time-consuming.