Why We Are In Love With Dodge Ram 1500 Airbags Aftermarket Parts (And You Should Also!)
The Ultimate Guide to Dodge Ram 1500 Aftermarket Airbags: Enhancing Safety and Performance
The Dodge Ram 1500 has long been a staple of the American road, celebrated for its rugged durability, remarkable pulling capacity, and improved interior. However, as these trucks age or are pressed to their limitations through heavy carrying and off-road expeditions, particular factory elements may need replacement or upgrades. Amongst Dodge Ram 1500 Airbags Customer Reviews for both safety and energy are the air bag systems.
In the context of a Dodge Ram 1500, "airbags" normally refer to two distinct systems: the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) utilized for crash security and the air suspension system used for load leveling and trip comfort. This guide explores the aftermarket landscape for both, offering a comprehensive take a look at why owners select aftermarket parts, what to try to find, and how these elements impact the lorry's durability.
1. Understanding the Two Types of Airbag Systems
Before diving into aftermarket alternatives, it is vital to differentiate in between the two main air bag systems found in the Ram 1500.
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)
These are the security airbags developed to release during a crash. Aftermarket parts in this classification typically include replacement air bag modules, clock springs, effect sensors, and control units. These are usually sought after following a minor mishap or if a dashboard caution light shows a system failure.
Air Suspension Systems
Many Ram 1500 models, particularly higher trims like the Laramie or Limited, come equipped with factory air suspension. In addition, owners of trucks with standard coil springs frequently turn to aftermarket "air assistant springs" to help with heavy towing. These airbags sit in between the frame and the axle to supply support, reduce "squat," and improve trip quality under load.
2. Aftermarket Safety Airbags: Is It Worth the Risk?
When a Ram 1500's safety airbags deploy, the expense of OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) replacement can be incredible. This leads numerous owners to look toward the aftermarket.
Parts Often Replaced
- Clock Springs: The rotary electrical adapter that enables the steering wheel to turn while maintaining a connection to the motorist's side airbag.
- Impact Sensors: Located at the front and sides of the truck, these signal the computer system to deploy the bags.
- Inflator Modules: The real bag and chemical propellant.
While aftermarket security parts are offered, third-party professionals and insurance companies typically advise utilizing certified refurbished or genuine OEM parts for SRS components. Due to the fact that these parts are life-saving gadgets, guaranteeing they meet the specific requirements of the Ram 1500's onboard computer is vital.
3. The Aftermarket Air Suspension Revolution
The most common reason Ram 1500 owners seek aftermarket airbags is to enhance the truck's suspension. While the Ram's multi-link coil rear suspension provides a superior trip compared to leaf springs, it is vulnerable to drooping when a heavy trailer is connected.
Popular Aftermarket Solutions
- Air Helper Springs (Load-Leveling Kits): These are set up inside or along with the existing coil springs. Brands like Air Lift and Firestone Ride-Rite are industry leaders.
- Replacement Air Struts: For Rams initially equipped with factory air suspension, aftermarket struts offer a more economical alternative to the expensive dealership replacements.
- Comprehensive Air Management Systems: These include compressors, tanks, and digital controllers that allow the motorist to adjust the truck's height on the fly.
4. Comparison Table: OEM vs. Aftermarket Air Suspension
To help owners choose which route to take, the following table compares factory-installed air suspension elements with typical aftermarket upgrades.
| Feature | Factory (OEM) Air Suspension | Aftermarket Air Helper Springs | High-End Aftermarket Air Kits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Purpose | Trip comfort and aerodynamics | Load leveling and pulling support | Performance and custom-made height |
| Installation | Factory integrated | Easy bolt-on (2-4 hours) | Complex (Requires compressor/tank) |
| Cost | High (₤ ₤ ₤ ₤) | Low to Moderate (₤ ₤) | Moderate to High (₤ ₤ ₤) |
| Durability | Prone to leakages in cold climates | Very durable; basic design | Extremely resilient; modular parts |
| Adjustability | Automatic/In-cab buttons | Manual (Schrader valve) | Electronic/Smartphone App |
| Maintenance | Specialist required | User-serviceable | User-serviceable |
5. Advantages of Installing Aftermarket Suspension Airbags
Updating a Dodge Ram 1500 with aftermarket air springs provides several tangible benefits for the everyday driver and the weekend warrior alike.
Enhanced Towing Safety
When a truck "squats" under the weight of a trailer, the front tires lose contact pressure. This leads to bad steering reaction and minimized braking efficiency. Aftermarket airbags enable the driver to level the load, restoring the truck's geometry.
Lowered Wear and Tear
By avoiding the suspension from bottoming out, airbags protect the shocks, bushings, and the frame itself from disconcerting effects.
Headlight Alignment
A sagging rear end causes headlights to point upward, blinding approaching traffic and lowering the motorist's visibility. Keeping the truck level makes sure the beams stay concentrated on the road.
Improved Ride Quality
Contrary to the belief that airbags make a ride "stiff," properly inflated aftermarket bags can soak up roadway vibrations that conventional coil springs might battle with, especially when the truck is partly loaded.
6. Key Considerations Before Purchasing
When searching for Dodge Ram 1500 aftermarket airbags, several factors need to be considered to ensure compatibility and performance.
- Weight Rating: Most aftermarket bags are rated for 1,000 to 5,000 pounds of load-leveling capability. It is vital to note that airbags do not increase the truck's GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating). They just assist the truck carry its existing rated load more efficiently.
- On-Board Air vs. Manual Fill: Manual fill kits are less expensive but require the chauffeur to utilize an external air compressor (like those at a gas station). On-board kits include a compressor installed to the frame, permitting adjustments from the chauffeur's seat.
- Climate Compatibility: In cooler environments, wetness can freeze in the air lines of aftermarket systems. Search for kits that consist of premium wetness traps or those developed for extreme weather condition.
7. Benefits and drawbacks of Aftermarket Airbag Systems
Pros:
- Eliminates truck droop and sway.
- Considerable cost savings compared to OEM replacements at car dealerships.
- Extremely adjustable (from standard assistant bags to full height-adjustable sets).
- Enhances general stability when carrying top-heavy loads like truck campers.
Cons:
- Can lead to a harsher ride if over-inflated while the truck is empty.
- Requires routine maintenance (checking for leaks and draining pipes moisture).
- Setup may require drilling into the frame on certain older models.
8. Often Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I install aftermarket air suspension bags myself?
Yes, the majority of air assistant spring sets for the Ram 1500 are designed for DIY installation. They generally require fundamental hand tools and about three hours of time. Nevertheless, Dodge Ram 1500 Airbags Warranty involving compressors and electrical circuitry may need expert installation.
Q2: Do aftermarket airbags void the Dodge guarantee?
Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a producer can not void your whole guarantee because of an aftermarket part. However, if the aftermarket air bag triggers a failure in a related part (e.g., the frame or factory shocks), that particular repair work may not be covered.
Q3: How much air pressure should I keep in my airbags?
For many aftermarket systems, a minimum of 5 PSI is needed at all times to prevent the bag from pinching or tearing. When loaded, pressures can be increased as much as 100 PSI depending on the particular kit's requirements.
Q4: Are aftermarket SRS airbags safe?
If acquired from reputable, licensed sources that satisfy Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS), they are practical. However, since of the intricacy of the Ram 1500's computer system systems, many owners choose "New Old Stock" (NOS) or licensed recycled OEM bags over unbranded generic variations.
Q5: Why is my factory air suspension failing?
Typical concerns with the Ram 1500 factory air suspension consist of dripping air springs, failed compressors, or sensing units that breakdown in freezing temperature levels. Many owners discover it more economical to replace unsuccessful factory components with aftermarket versions instead of changing the entire system with coils.
9. Conclusion
The Dodge Ram 1500 is a flexible machine, and the aftermarket air bag market shows that flexibility. Whether an owner is wanting to bring back the safety of their vehicle after a collision or seeking to turn their truck into a pulling powerhouse, aftermarket parts provide a viable, cost-effective service. By comprehending the differences in between SRS and suspension elements, and by picking reliable brand names, Ram owners can ensure their vehicle remains safe, level, and all set for any task.
