Air? Is that the answer

[Oldrat]

I need some help please,

3,000 miles in with my Crafter conversion and I’ve grounded the electric step several times. Mainly when traversing poor quality car parks or overnight stops, but once at a bloomin nasty level crossing.

A lift kit on or changing wheels etc are NOT an option so how practical is air suspension?

To those of you with Air suspension or with such knowledge:-
1. Reputable systems/ suppliers/fitters please
2. how quickly can it be raised/lowered.

Ta

 

[Kind of Blue]

Have a look at VB Air Full Air Suspension » VB-Airsuspension They ahave a very good system that has a following. Their systems are approved by VW for at leat the Transporter.

 

[Jayjmac]

I have air on my T6. I’ll tell you why I went air for different reasons than yourself but the same end goal, practicality and options.

I run ABP with 3P management. If I were you I’d look at the 3H if this is the route you want to go. The 3H is self levelling. the apb which uses a B14 goes quite high and very low. Others like the VB are limited.

it can be raised in a matter of seconds and aired out in under 4 seconds. I run x2 viair 444 compressors for faster filling and have a 5 gallon tank under the van. It’s all underslung.

My only thing if I could change something is the noise the compressors make to fill the tank. It is very loud. I’ve got 2 so it isn’t for long. I suppose I could mount them on rubber feet or sound deaden around them. It’s not that bad that I feel the need to get under the van.

If you look in this months VWT they have a crafter on air!! Check it out.

 

[Paul Greathead]

I’m on air once you have airride your never go back too static. Jay you got any pics of your van looks

 

[Oldrat]

Great responses so far, keep them coming please, I’m an air virgin

 

[Jayjmac]

That cover in VWT actually made me want to go out and get a crafter!!

 

[Oldrat]

aw thanks

On another thread here, someone just called the Crafter an BIG Ugly Bus

I’m better now!

 

[Jayjmac]

Just a few pics.. not many raised if I’m honest!! Threw some of the install in there

 

[Jayjmac]

aw thanks

On another thread here, someone just called the Crafter an BIG Ugly Bus

I’m better now!

Naaaaa the crafter is a good size! I’d have both if I could...

 

[andys]

Just a few pics.. not many raised if I’m honest!! Threw some of the install in there

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Are the compressors underslung too or do you need to find room in the van?

 

[Jayjmac]

Compressors are under slug as well. You can’t see them in mine as it has all the splash guards. Tucked under there half way down the drivers side

 

[RickT6]

SMART . WIsh I could afford it or have the skills to do myself

 

[DXX]

Can you not fit a BA cylinder or SCUBA cylinder with a reducing valve instead of a compressor and low pressure tank. They run at 200+ bar so plenty of air, charge the cylinder at home and replace.

 

[Skyliner33]

I’m on air once you have airride your never go back too static. Jay you got any pics of your van looks

NOt true, I was on air, hated a lot of it and now Im back on coilovers, ride is far better.

 

[Texxaco]

I love my air, though expensive but you do get what you pay for. High, low or air out, it’s your choice and also up to you how you want it to work for you.
Mine is Bilstein with Air Lift 3P.

I currently have one compressor, soon to be two to reduce the run time. Aside from that is bloody awesome. If you want perfect level get the 3H system.

 

[Texxaco]

One thing I forgot to mention, if you do get air make sure you set it to air up on start to avoid turning the steering wheel when/if you have your van aired out.

You wings will appreciate it.

 

[Jayjmac]

NOt true, I was on air, hated a lot of it and now Im back on coilovers, ride is far better.

I disagree. The ride on my air is superior to that of my coilovers

 

[Skyliner33]

I disagree. The ride on my air is superior to that of my coilovers

That just tells me your coil overs were not as good as the ones I have fitted.

 

[Jayjmac]

What management system did you have and who fitted your air suspension?

 

[Skyliner33]

What management system did you have and who fitted your air suspension?

ABP and Accuair.

But its the shocks that give most of the comfort, not the springs/bags