Airbag myths BUSTED! We debunk misconceptions about airbags for 4WDs.

Airbag myths BUSTED! We debunk misconceptions about airbags for 4WDs.

airbag ride-rite kit

MYTH #1

Airbags will cut/reduce your suspension travel offroad….

FACT:

The wheel travel is NOT reduced. Airbags allow for  the same amount of travel as usual regardless of load conditions. In fact, airbag fitment may allow for more suspension travel  compared to the result of fitting traditional constant-load or heavy-duty springs.

MYTH #2

Airbags can tear with the flex of your 4wd’suspension…

FACT:

Firestone airbag kits, as developed by AIRBAGMAN are application specific. The kits are available to suit a lifted vehicles so that the bags will not get damaged when flexing. We even have kits to suit Nissan Patrols with 100mm of suspension lift.

MYTHS #3

Airbags make a vehicle ride hard and bouncy….

FACT:

As long as the airbags are not over-inflated, they will not make a vehicle ride hard. In most cases, a 4WD equipped with Firestone airbags will ride better than what alternate load-bearing solutions will across their load range. If a vehicle equipped with Firestone airbags is “bouncy”, it probably needs some new shock absorbers.

MYTHS #4

I don’t want to fit airbags because they are prone to stone puncture….

FACT:

Firestone Rite-Rite (bellows-type) airbags are constructed using a four layer system based on sidewall design (like a tyre). In function, they are almost bullet-proof. A punctured Ride-Rite bag is virtually unheard of. With the Coil-Rite bags (urethane insert bags for coil springs) damage is very rare. If you are concerned, high-pressure mesh sleeves are available. These optional sleeves also allow you to double the pressure in the airbag, which also doubles you load-bearing ability.

MYTHS #5

I don’t want to fit an airbag kit because they often leak…..

FACT:

Firestone airbags will only lose pressure (for the same reasons) and relative to that of your vehicle’s tyre’s. So when you check your tyre pressures, check the bags as well.

MYTHS #6

I don’t want to fit airbags (Ride –Rites) because they can make your chassis bend…

FACT:

Excessive and/or poorly positioned loads combined with driver error are the common themes with bent chassis. This can happen with or without airbags installed. Use you head. Always pay attention to a vehicle manufacturer’s load and axle ratings, and consult the vehicle manufactures handbook for load positioning and driving recommendations.

MORE FACTS:

Comfort-ride suspensions can’t carry heavy loads. Heavy-duty springs ride rough when the vehicle is unloaded. Coil Rite Airbags allow you to tune your suspension under all road conditions.

To find out more or get your own, visit 4WD1.com

firestone coil-rite kit

airbag ride-rite kit

MYTH #1

Airbags will cut/reduce your suspension travel offroad….

FACT:

The wheel travel is NOT reduced. Airbags allow for  the same amount of travel as usual regardless of load conditions. In fact, airbag fitment may allow for more suspension travel  compared to the result of fitting traditional constant-load or heavy-duty springs.