Volkswagen Transporter T5/T6 Front Struts | AirLift Performance

Options

Heavy motorhomes with fixed loads are often fitted with simple control systems, such as Schrader (tyre) valves or Schrader valves and a gauge block. These work very well for vehicles carrying a fixed load/weight.

When the load in your motorhome or van varies significantly, On-Board Air (OBA) is normally required, and can add a lot of additional function. This enables you to get the very best from your kit at all times. OBA allows the ride height to be adjusted for road, weather and load conditions, and for those experiencing grounding conditions it allows the absolute maximum lift to be achieved when needed (for instance on ferries, petrol stations and rough site entrances). The vehicle can then be returned to the most comfortable setting for driving. There is also an “element” of levelling available, although its certainly no substitute for a jacking system.

OBA is also great for towing, where loads are added or removed, or for commercial vehicles that start the working day at one weight and end it at another as deliveries are completed.

OBA packages come in various specifications as outlined below which range from the most basic to a fully automatic system. If in doubt, please contact us via e-mail or phone.

Schrader valve kits

The simplest kit available. One fitting at the airbag, a length of line and a Schrader (tyre) valve at the other end. The valve can be fitted anywhere convenient to the user and can be inflated anywhere a tyre can be inflated (e.g. garage, petrol station).

Recommended for: Vehicles with a fixed load that does not alter and users who want an entry-level system. Ideal for motorhomes because they are always very heavy vehicles but the weight does not usually vary considerably. Users need to find an air source (i.e. at a garage or petrol station) to adjust the pressures (emergency tyre inflators rarely last if asked to inflate air suspension regularly), but remember suspension systems usually require up to 100 psi which may not be available everywhere.

Schrader valve gauge kits

A gauge kit with two Schrader valves and twin needle gauge (to monitor left and right). No moving parts to go wrong, such as taps or levers. Pressure can be monitored from the gauge, which can be fitted anywhere convenient (and away from the inflation valves if desired). Several versions available. This option does not come with a plate that can be fitted to the dashboard.

Recommended for: Vehicles with a fixed load as above but with two gauges for those who always want to know the pressure in the bags.

Budget Duty OBA

Includes a 10% duty cycle compressor, maximum 105 PSI but only a tiny 10% duty cycle and 1 USG tank. Comes with an OBA hook-up kit to match the compressor, which comes with an on/off button to get to pressure. Please note that the left and right air bags are not independent, i.e. they cannot be set to different pressures.

Recommended for: Infrequent adjustment. When the load varies, due to towing or adding payload to a commercial vehicle, air-managed solutions get the very best from the system but this system is NOT rated for commercial use. This is the same spec. as many competitors “standard duty” default kit.  This is an entry-level, compressor control package and our most basic OBA kit

Economy Duty OBA

Includes a low duty cycle compressor, maximum 120 PSI. Please note: The left and right air bags are independent but cannot simply be set to different pressures at the touch of a button. Higher specification than the entry-level kit, making this kit very good value for money but the best value in terms of spec for your buck is the Standard Duty OBA.

This kit is simple to install and operate. As the video below shows, it has a single button to simultaneously lift both sides. To deflate the air and lower the vehicle requires use of the Schrader valves at the bottom of the controller.

Recommended for: Users who want a better controller with a heavier-duty compressor but who perhaps don’t adjust the suspension every time they use it and don’t mind waiting 30-40 seconds to lift or drop the vehicle.

Standard Duty OBA.

Includes a low 33% duty cycle compressor (better than many OEMs), maximum 120 PSI, small 2.5 USG steel tank, twin-button-and-gauge controller and an OBA hook-up kit to match the compressor. Please note: The left and right air bags are independent and can be set to different pressures. Used for regular adjustment. Twin paddle switches (like old style electric window switches) allow almost instant adjustment through the whole range.

Recommended for: Users who regularly adjust the suspension and want to do so in a few seconds. If you have grounding issues on a motorhome then this is the controller for you. This is the minimum recommended for commercial vehicles. Ideal if you have a steep drive, problems with ferries or regularly change the weight of your vehicle.

This is considered our best value OBA system in terms of its modest price and high spec.

Premium Duty OBA

Includes a 100% duty cycle compressor, maximum 200 PSI, 200 PSI tank, twin paddle/gauge controller. Used for daily adjustment. Top general spec. This is a far higher spec than the Standard Duty but essentially the same principle. Single, combined button for up and for down, and a single gauge for both left and right (twin needle).

Recommended for: Ideal control for commercial use and for motorhome users who just want the confidence from fitting the best compressor and a simpler/smarter controller. If you adjust multiple times per day then this is the ideal option.

Ultimate OBA

Includes a 100% duty cycle compressor, maximum 200 PSI, 200 PSI tank. Used for daily adjustment. Top spec, includes computer controller with programmable pre-sets and standard height adjustment for general running but can be overridden when conditions require.

This system is designed for adjusting four corners and, as the name suggests, is the ultimate controller. Everything is located in one integrated unit, which makes installation simple, and the remote function from any Android or Apple phone or tablet is a real bonus.

Recommended for: Users who want the best computer we offer and a remote control. Anyone who wants the best On-Board Air money can buy should go for Ultimate OBA.

Automatic OBA

Includes a 100% duty cycle compressor, maximum 200 PSI. Used for hour by hour adjustment, to maintain a pre-set ride height (set at install) . Top spec. This system is currently only available for leaf spring vehicles and perfect for load support kits. Automatic is ideal where you want a high quality system but dont want to bother having anything to do with it – no manual controller, no gauge and no tank. The height is set during the installation and cannot be changed later.

Manual override (dump button) and a tank is available at extra cost. No gauges.

If you need further clarification or your needs are not listed, please do call 0800 772 0315 or email enquiries@airide.uk and we will be very happy to help, or to raise a personal quotation.