f ride comfort and handling. Upgrading to a modern air suspension system can dramatically improve the driving experience while preserving the classic look of your ride.
What is Air Suspension?
Air suspension replaces the traditional coil springs or leaf springs with air bags or air springs. These are essentially tough rubber and plastic bags that can be inflated and deflated to adjust the ride height and firmness of the suspension.
An air compressor pumps air into the bags to raise the vehicle up, while release valves let air out to lower it. This allows you to change the stance and ride quality at the push of a button.
Benefits of Air Suspension for Classic Cars
There are several key advantages to installing an air suspension system in your classic car:
Improved Ride Comfort
The adjustable nature of air suspension provides a much smoother and more comfortable ride compared to traditional suspension setups. You can dial in the perfect amount of cushion for cruising or stiffen things up for spirited driving.
Better Handling
In addition to ride comfort, air suspension also improves handling by keeping the vehicle stable and level during cornering and braking. The bags resist roll and dive, giving you more control over the car. Some systems even allow you to independently adjust the front and rear or side-to-side to dial in the perfect setup.
Adjustable Ride Height
One of the coolest features of air suspension is the ability to change the ride height on demand. You can slam your classic low to the ground for a dramatic stance, or raise it up for extra clearance on rough roads or steep driveways. No more worrying about scraping your undercarriage on speed bumps or inclines.
Preserve Value
Unlike some other modifications, installing air suspension on a classic car is generally reversible and won't hurt the value of the vehicle. In many cases, it may actually increase the value by making the car more enjoyable to drive and giving it a cool modern feature.
Components of an Air Suspension System
A typical air suspension conversion kit for a classic car will include:
- Air bags or air springs to replace the factory springs
- An air compressor and tank to supply pressurized air
- Airlines to carry air from the tank to the bags
- Valves to control the flow of air
- A control system with buttons or switches to activate the system
Some kits are designed to completely replace the existing suspension components, while others work in conjunction with the factory parts. You'll want to choose a kit that is specifically designed for your make and model of classic car.
Installation Considerations
Installing air suspension on a classic car is definitely more involved than a typical suspension job. You'll need to have some fabrication skills and be comfortable with wiring and plumbing.
If you're not confident doing the work yourself, it's best to have the system installed by a professional shop that specializes in air suspension. They'll have the knowledge and experience to get everything set up correctly and safely.
You'll also want to consider the cost of an air suspension conversion. Kits can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the complexity and features. Factor in the cost of installation as well if you're not doing it yourself.
Is Air Suspension Right for Your Classic?
Air suspension can be a great way to modernize the ride and handling of your classic car while still maintaining its vintage charm. It's a particularly good option if you drive your car regularly and want to improve the comfort and performance.
However, it's not the right choice for everyone. If you're a purist who values originality above all else, you may prefer to keep your classic on its factory suspension. And if your car is more of a show queen than a driver, you might not get much benefit from an air ride setup.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and how you use your classic car. If you want the best of both worlds - timeless style and modern ride quality - air suspension is definitely worth considering.
Classic Car Air Suspension: Preserve the Vintage Appeal
Installing air suspension on a classic car is a great way to improve the ride, handling, and versatility while preserving its vintage appeal. With the ability to adjust ride height and firmness on the fly, you can enjoy your classic in a whole new way.
If you're considering air suspension for your classic ride, be sure to check out our offer and find a quality kit that is designed specifically for your vehicle. With proper installation and setup, an air ride system can take your classic driving experience to the next level.
Curious to learn more about air suspension? Check out our latest blog post: Custom Air Suspension Setups: Take Show Cars to the Next Level