Adjustable suspension

Types of Adjustable Suspension

There are many types of adjustable suspension for different vehicles. Here are some of them:

• Coilover Suspension

  A coilover suspension system has shocks and springs combined into one unit. This makes it easy to adjust ride height without affecting the spring rates. Coilover suspensions are further divided into two categories:

  - Inbound coilover suspensions have coil springs on the strut, which makes them more affordable.

  - Outbound coilover suspensions have springs on the control arm, which offer better performance but are more expensive.

• Air Suspension

  Air suspensions use airbags instead of traditional springs. The airbags inflate and deflate to adjust the vehicle's height. This type of suspension is common in trucks and luxury vehicles, as it offers a smooth ride.

• Adjustable Shocks and Struts

  Another type of adjustable suspension is adjustable shocks and struts. Shocks and struts have damping rates that are hard to change. However, some manufacturers make shocks and struts with adjustable damping.

  The adjustable struts and shocks have knobs or screws that allow the driver to change the damping rates while installed in the vehicle. With this suspension, the driver can get a firmer or softer ride depending on the road conditions.

• Liquid Suspension

  Liquid suspension is a new technology in the vehicle parts industry. This type of suspension uses liquid-filled dampers. The liquid's movement controls the damping force. As a result, the vehicle's ride quality improves. The liquid suspension is still being tested, but it is expected to be available in production cars very soon.

Specifications and Maintenance of Adjustable Suspension

There are many different types of adjustable suspension systems, each with its own specifications. Here are the most common ones:

• Coilover suspension

  Coilover suspensions are among the most popular types of car suspensions. The type of suspension system gets its name from the fact that its shock absorbers have a spring wrapped around them. The spring is known as a coil spring. Coilovers allow car owners to easily adjust the ride height of the vehicle. This is because the coil spring sits on top of the shock absorber in a preload adjustable seat. By using a spanner wrench, mechanics can easily twist the spring around. This leads to a tighter or looser fit. As a result, the height of the vehicle can be increased or lowered with ease.

• Air suspension

  Air suspensions use air-filled rubber bladder pots instead of conventional springs. With an air suspension system, the ride height can be adjusted up to 6 inches. In most cases, the height can be adjusted while the vehicle is in motion. The rate of height adjustment is also pretty fast. For example, the ride height can be changed from low to high in a split second.

• Shock Extension

  Shock extension is a suspension lift kit for 4X4 vehicles. The kit comes with extension brackets that are installed on the factory shock towers. It is a simple and cost-effective way to lift the vehicle's suspension without replacing the entire shock absorber system.

• Suspension lift kit

  The suspension lift kit is one of the most common adjustable truck suspensions. The kit comes with a complex set of components that work together to push the vehicle's suspension down. This, in turn, lifts the vehicle's body upward. The suspension lift kit can raise the vehicle's height by 2 to 6 inches or more, depending on the model.

When it comes to maintaining adjustable suspensions, different types of suspensions have different requirements. However, there are a few general rules that apply to all suspension systems. Here they are:

• 1. Regular inspections: It is important to regularly check the suspension system for leaks, tears, and wear. The earlier problems are detected, the easier they are to fix.
• 2. Cleanliness: Keeping the suspension system clean is important for its performance and longevity. This is because dirt and debris can cause wear and tear on the components over time. In off-road vehicles, mud and dirt are common. This is why mud flaps and splash guards are installed to prevent dirt from getting into the suspension system.
• 3. Lubrication: Proper lubrication of the moving parts of the suspension system ensures that it operates smoothly. Mechanics use the right type of lubricant to reduce friction between the moving parts. This prevents wear and tear of the components over time.
• 4. Avoid overloading: Adjustable truck suspension and car suspension systems have their load limits. Carrying extra loads, such as cargo or passengers, can damage the suspension system. It can cause sagging, which affects ride quality and handling.

How to Choose Adjustable Suspension

When buying adjustable suspension kits for sale, it’s crucial to understand the target customers' needs. Here are some factors to consider when choosing suitable options:

• Vehicle compatibility: The stock coilovers should be compatible with the common car models among the target clientele. The make, model, and year of the vehicle should be considered.
• Type of suspension: Different vehicles use various suspension systems. It would be best to find out whether the adjustable dampers for sale are meant for vehicles with MacPherson strut or multi-link suspension. Additionally, it would be best to determine whether clients prefer air suspension or adjustable coilovers.
• Quality of materials: The quality of the materials used to make the suspension components affects their durability and performance. It would be best to focus on suspensions made of high-quality materials like aluminum, carbon steel, and high-strength steel.
• Performance: Consider the performance of the aftermarket adjustable suspension. Find out the lift and drop height, level of comfort, and how easy it is to install and adjust the suspension. This information can help determine the value of the suspension to the target customers.
• Budget: Adjustable suspension kits come in various prices depending on the type, make, and materials. It’s important to consider the budget and find a balance between quality and affordability.
• Brand reputation: Well-known brands in the adjustable suspension market are reputed to produce quality products. Consider the brands that are already in the adjustable suspension market and have a good reputation among the target customers.
• Included warranty: The warranty is a good indicator of the quality of the product. Many suppliers offer adjustable suspension with limited warranties that cover manufacturing defects. In case of damages, the warranty can save the business from losses.

How to DIY and replace an adjustable suspension

The process for replacing an adjustable suspension kit differs depending on the type of kit being installed. Manufacturers provide instructions on how to install adjustable suspension kits. Below is a general guide on how to replace a coilover suspension kit, which is the most common type.

Tools needed:

• Jack and jack stands
• Spring compressor
• Wrench set
• Socket set
• Pliers
• Torque wrench

Steps:

• 1. Park the car on a flat surface and loosen the lug nuts.
• 2. Use the jack to lift the car and place it on jack stands.
• 3. Remove the wheels and locate the adjustable suspension system.
• 4. Disconnect the suspension components and remove the old coilovers.
• 5. Install the new coilovers and adjust the height as per the manufacturer's recommendations.
• 6. Reattach all the suspension components and wheels.
• 7. Lower the car and torque the lug nuts to the specified torque.

Q&A

Q1: What is an adjustable suspension?

A1: An adjustable suspension is a type of vehicle suspension system that allows the driver to modify and change the suspension settings and ride height.

Q2: What are the benefits of adjustable suspension?

A2: The benefits of having an adjustable suspension include improved vehicle handling, the ability to raise or lower the car, and customized ride quality.

Q3: Who should buy an adjustable suspension?

A3: People interested in buying an adjustable suspension kit include car enthusiasts, especially those who love racing or off-road driving, and people who want to improve their vehicle's performance.