Coil airbags function as internal helpers for your vehicle's factory coil springs, providing essential support and enhancing suspension performance, especially under load.
These specialized airbags are designed to fit directly inside your existing coil springs. They interact with the spring itself, working "with and against" it simultaneously. This dynamic relationship is key to improving ride comfort and maximizing handling capacity, particularly when your vehicle is carrying extra weight.
Addressing Load Sag
A primary challenge for standard coil springs is managing varying loads. As you add load weight, the coil spring naturally crushes down so that the coils are closer together. This compression, known as sag, can reduce ride height, decrease suspension travel, and negatively impact handling and steering control.
Providing Internal Support
Coil airbags help counteract this sag by providing internal resistance within the spring. When the coil spring begins to compress under load, the airbag inside is also compressed, building internal air pressure. This pressure acts as a supplementary spring force, helping to hold the vehicle up and prevent excessive compression of the factory coil.
Think of it like this:
- Standard Coil Spring: The spring bears the entire load, compressing significantly with added weight.
- Coil Spring with Airbag: The coil spring still carries the primary load, but the airbag assists by pushing back against the compression from within the spring itself.
Benefits of Using Coil Airbags
Utilizing coil airbags offers several practical advantages, particularly for vehicles that frequently carry heavy loads or tow:
- Improved Ride Comfort: By preventing excessive sag and bottoming out, the suspension remains within its optimal operating range, providing a smoother ride.
- Enhanced Handling and Stability: Maintaining proper ride height ensures correct suspension geometry, leading to better steering response and overall vehicle stability, especially when cornering or braking with a load.
- Reduced Wear: Preventing the suspension from bottoming out protects components from excessive stress and potential damage over time.
- Adjustable Support: Depending on the specific product, many coil airbags allow you to adjust the air pressure based on the load, offering customized support.
In essence, coil airbags act as a proactive solution to the natural tendency of coil springs to compress heavily under load, ensuring your vehicle maintains better performance and comfort across various carrying conditions.
