The MaXpeedingRods air suspension system offers vehicle owners adjustable ride height and improved handling characteristics. Installation requires careful adherence to safety precautions and a specific sequence of steps to ensure proper functionality and prevent damage to components. This article details the installation process, preventative maintenance procedures, and troubleshooting steps based on official guidance. The system utilizes high-pressure air and requires disconnection of power before disassembly. Proper maintenance, including regular air pressure checks and clearance verification, is crucial for longevity and warranty validity.
Air Spring Removal
Prior to commencing any work on the air suspension system, several preparatory steps must be taken. The steering wheel should be set to a straight-ahead position. The vehicle must then be raised to a suitable working height and securely supported on jack brackets. It is explicitly warned against performing any work under the vehicle without adequate support, as this could result in serious injury or death.
The removal process begins with disabling the air suspension system, if equipped, by switching it to the off position. Subsequently, the wheels and brake calipers must be removed to access the air spring components. The top retaining clip of the air spring is then removed.
Before proceeding further, it is essential to release the air pressure within the air spring. This is achieved by opening both the air spring solenoid valve and the exhaust valve. A warning is issued against removing any component supporting the air bag without first venting or providing support. Disconnecting pressurized air lines can also pose a safety risk.
Further disassembly involves removing the air pipe fixing clip or disconnecting the electrical connector from the air spring solenoid. If a solenoid valve is present, it should be removed first, ensuring the O-ring is replaced during reinstallation to prevent leaks and potential compressor damage. The air line is then disconnected from the solenoid. The bottom retaining clip is removed, allowing for the removal of the old air spring from the vehicle.
Air Spring Installation
Before installing the new MaXpeedingRods air spring, a thorough inspection of all components is recommended. This includes checking for wear, embrittlement, or cracks in rubber parts, corrosion on metal parts, and hairline cracks in plastic components. Any liquids or foreign objects should be removed.
Installation begins with using MaXpeedingRods air suspension components. All nuts and bolts must be tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications. The spring retaining clip is installed on top of the air spring. The air spring solenoid valve is then installed into the air spring, with a critical reminder to replace the O-ring on the solenoid valve. Failure to do so can lead to air leaks, compressor damage, and void the warranty.
The air spring solenoid electrical connector is connected, followed by the air line to the air spring solenoid. It is important to ensure the valve and air pipe are clean and that the air pressure tube is not bent, twisted, or squeezed.
Air Suspension Installation and Final Steps
Following air spring installation, the control arm bolt is secured. The lower bolts and nuts of the air shock absorber are installed and tightened. Ride height adjustment is performed through the lower mounting seat. The minimum driving height is determined by the vehicle owner, but it is crucial to ensure the airbag does not come into contact with any vehicle parts, including wheels, tires, the body, or suspension arms. Contact can damage the airbags and shock absorbers and will invalidate the warranty. If the damping is over extended, the ride height must be lowered. Conversely, if the shock absorption bottoms out, the vehicle must be raised.
The top bolts and nuts of the air shock absorber are then installed and tightened. The air pipes are secured, ensuring sufficient space to prevent contact with exhaust pipes, lower arms, axles, and other heat sources or moving parts. The air line is inserted into the air shock fitting until it is properly seated.
The vehicle is then lowered, the wheels are reinstalled, and the installation is completed. Finally, the suspension switch is turned back to the ON position, allowing the air suspension computer to sense the vehicle’s height and activate the air compressor to re-inflate the air spring to the normal driving height. The jack is then fully lowered and removed.
Preventative Maintenance
To maximize the lifespan and performance of the MaXpeedingRods air suspension system, regular preventative maintenance is essential. The system should not be stored in temperatures below -40°F (-40°C) or above 158°F (70°C). Reused parts should be cleaned and fitted with new O-rings and lubricant.
Regularly check the air pressure within the air spring and maintain the minimum required pressure. Understanding the load capacity and spring stiffness of the vehicle’s air spring is also important. The swing lever, particularly on the front suspension, should be adjusted to optimize turning characteristics. It is vital to adhere to the vehicle’s rated weight capacity.
Maintaining adequate clearance around the air spring is paramount. A minimum clearance of ½ inch is required, and at least one inch of ground clearance should be maintained when the air spring is fully deflated. After installation, verify this clearance when the air spring is fully inflated to prevent system malfunction.
Troubleshooting
Several potential issues can arise with the air suspension system. Pinching of the bellows with metal parts can occur if driving without pressure in the air suspension. Damage to the air shock absorption surface can be avoided by ensuring sufficient space.
Insufficient air pressure can be caused by air leaks, which can be identified using a soapy water mixture. Alternatively, the compressor itself may be damaged and require replacement.
Warnings
Several warnings are provided throughout the installation and maintenance procedures. The air suspension system uses high-pressure air, requiring pressure release and power disconnection before disassembly. Dust and grease must be prevented from entering the air tube. Appropriate goggles and protective equipment should be worn during air shock absorber replacement.
Some products contain sealed nitrogen gas and should not be disassembled or thrown into a fire. All nuts and bolts must be tightened to manufacturer’s specifications. The O-ring on the solenoid valve must be replaced during installation.
Conclusion
Proper installation and consistent preventative maintenance are critical for the reliable operation of the MaXpeedingRods air suspension system. Following the outlined procedures, adhering to safety warnings, and regularly inspecting components will ensure optimal performance and longevity. Maintaining correct air pressure and clearances, and understanding the vehicle’s load capacity, are essential for preventing damage and maintaining warranty coverage.