An AirLift for a car refers to an air suspension system typically manufactured or associated with the company AirLift Performance or Air Lift Company. It replaces traditional coil springs or leaf springs with adjustable air bags or bellows.
Understanding Car AirLift Systems
At its core, a car AirLift system is a type of air suspension. As described in the reference provided, an air suspension system is a style of vehicle suspension that's powered by an electric pump or compressor that pumps air into flexible bellows that are typically made out of a textile-reinforced type of rubber. These bellows, often called air springs, inflate or deflate to raise or lower the vehicle's ride height.
Key Components
A typical AirLift system for a car includes several main components:
- Air Springs/Bellows: These replace the conventional springs and support the vehicle's weight using pressurized air.
- Compressor: An electric pump that generates compressed air.
- Air Tank: Stores compressed air, allowing for quick ride height adjustments.
- Air Lines: Hoses that connect the compressor, tank, air springs, and control unit.
- Control Unit: Manages the air flow and allows the user to adjust the suspension (e.g., remote, app, or wired controller).
- Sensors: Some advanced systems include height sensors to maintain a set ride height or level the vehicle automatically.
How it Works
The compressor fills the air tank with pressurized air. When the driver wants to adjust the ride height, they use the control unit. The control unit signals valves to send air from the tank to the air springs, inflating them to raise the vehicle, or to release air from the springs to lower it. This process allows for on-the-fly adjustments to suit different driving conditions or aesthetic preferences.
Why Choose an AirLift System?
People install AirLift systems for various reasons, blending performance, practicality, and style.
Benefits of AirLift Suspension
- Adjustable Ride Height: The most significant advantage. Easily raise the car to clear obstacles or lower it for a sleek look or improved aerodynamics at speed.
- Improved Ride Comfort: Air springs can often provide a smoother ride than traditional springs, absorbing bumps more effectively.
- Enhanced Handling: Adjusting air pressure can tune the suspension's stiffness, potentially improving cornering stability. Some systems offer independent corner control.
- Load Leveling: Ideal for vehicles that tow or carry heavy loads. The suspension can be inflated to maintain a level stance, preventing sagging.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Lowering a car significantly ("laying frame" or close to it) is a popular modification in car culture, easily achievable with air suspension.
Common Uses
- Show Cars: Achieving extremely low stances for car shows.
- Performance Vehicles: Tuning suspension characteristics for track or spirited driving while maintaining practicality for street use.
- Trucks/SUVs: Leveling loads, improving towing stability, and adjusting ride height for off-road clearance or easier loading.
- Daily Drivers: Combining comfort, adjustability for varied road conditions, and style.
In summary, a car AirLift system is a sophisticated air suspension setup that offers unparalleled control over a vehicle's ride height and handling characteristics, powered by compressed air controlled electronically.
