Why We Why We Dodge Ram 1500 Airbags Aftermarket Parts (And You Should, Too!)
The Ultimate Guide to Dodge Ram 1500 Aftermarket Airbags: Enhancing Safety and Performance
The Dodge Ram 1500 has actually long been a staple of the American roadway, commemorated for its rugged toughness, remarkable hauling capability, and improved interior. Nevertheless, as these trucks age or are pushed to their limitations through heavy hauling and off-road trips, specific factory parts might need replacement or upgrades. Amongst the most critical components for both safety and utility are the air bag systems.
In the context of a Dodge Ram 1500, "airbags" normally describe 2 distinct systems: the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) utilized for crash protection and the air suspension system used for load leveling and ride convenience. This guide checks out the aftermarket landscape for both, supplying a comprehensive take a look at why owners pick aftermarket parts, what to look for, and how these components impact the lorry's durability.
1. Understanding the Two Types of Airbag Systems
Before diving into aftermarket alternatives, it is necessary to compare the 2 primary air bag systems found in the Ram 1500.
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)
These are the safety airbags created to release during a collision. read more in this classification usually include replacement air bag modules, clock springs, impact sensing units, and control units. These are usually sought after following a minor accident or if a control panel warning light shows a system failure.
Air Suspension Systems
Lots of Ram 1500 models, particularly greater trims like the Laramie or Limited, come equipped with factory air suspension. Additionally, 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 assistance, minimize "squat," and improve ride quality under load.
2. Aftermarket Safety Airbags: Is It Worth the Risk?
When a Ram 1500's safety airbags release, the cost of OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) replacement can be incredible. This leads numerous owners to look towards the aftermarket.
Components Often Replaced
- Clock Springs: The rotary electrical port that enables the guiding wheel to turn while maintaining a connection to the driver's side air bag.
- Impact Sensors: Located at the front and sides of the truck, these signal the computer system to release the bags.
- Inflator Modules: The real bag and chemical propellant.
While aftermarket safety components are offered, third-party experts and insurer frequently advise utilizing licensed reconditioned or authentic OEM parts for SRS components. Due to the fact that these parts are life-saving devices, guaranteeing they meet the specific specs of the Ram 1500's onboard computer system is paramount.
3. The Aftermarket Air Suspension Revolution
The most typical factor Ram 1500 owners look for aftermarket airbags is to enhance the truck's suspension. While the Ram's multi-link coil rear suspension supplies a remarkable ride compared to leaf springs, it is susceptible to sagging when a heavy trailer is connected.
Popular Aftermarket Solutions
- Air Helper Springs (Load-Leveling Kits): These are set up inside or alongside the existing coil springs. Brands like Air Lift and Firestone Ride-Rite are industry leaders.
- Replacement Air Struts: For Rams initially geared up with factory air suspension, aftermarket struts provide a more economical alternative to the expensive dealer replacements.
- Comprehensive Air Management Systems: These include compressors, tanks, and digital controllers that enable the chauffeur to change the truck's height on the fly.
4. Contrast Table: OEM vs. Aftermarket Air Suspension
To assist owners choose which route to take, the following table compares factory-installed air suspension parts with common aftermarket upgrades.
| Feature | Factory (OEM) Air Suspension | Aftermarket Air Helper Springs | High-End Aftermarket Air Kits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Purpose | Trip convenience and aerodynamics | Load leveling and hauling assistance | Efficiency and custom height |
| Setup | 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 | Extremely resilient; simple style | Highly resilient; modular parts |
| Adjustability | Automatic/In-cab buttons | Handbook (Schrader valve) | Electronic/Smartphone App |
| Upkeep | Specialist needed | User-serviceable | User-serviceable |
5. Advantages of Installing Aftermarket Suspension Airbags
Upgrading a Dodge Ram 1500 with aftermarket air springs provides a number of tangible advantages for the daily motorist and the weekend warrior alike.
Enhanced Towing Safety
When a truck "crouches" under the weight of a trailer, the front tires lose contact pressure. This results in bad steering response and lowered braking performance. Aftermarket airbags enable the chauffeur to level the load, restoring the truck's geometry.
Lowered Wear and Tear
By preventing the suspension from bottoming out, airbags protect the shocks, bushings, and the frame itself from disconcerting impacts.
Headlight Alignment
A sagging rear end triggers headlights to point up, blinding approaching traffic and lowering the chauffeur's presence. Keeping the truck level makes sure the beams stay focused on the roadway.
Boosted Ride Quality
Contrary to the belief that airbags make a ride "stiff," effectively inflated aftermarket bags can absorb road vibrations that conventional coil springs may deal with, particularly when the truck is partly packed.
6. Secret Considerations Before Purchasing
When looking for Dodge Ram 1500 aftermarket airbags, a number of aspects need to be considered to guarantee compatibility and efficiency.
- Weight Rating: Most aftermarket bags are ranked for 1,000 to 5,000 lbs of load-leveling capability. It is important to keep in mind that airbags do not increase the truck's GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating). They just help the truck carry its existing rated load more efficiently.
- On-Board Air vs. Manual Fill: Manual fill sets are less expensive however need the motorist to utilize an external air compressor (like those at a gas station). On-board kits consist of a compressor mounted to the frame, enabling changes from the driver's seat.
- Environment Compatibility: In chillier environments, wetness can freeze in the air lines of aftermarket systems. Look for sets that consist of top quality wetness traps or those developed for severe weather.
7. Advantages and disadvantages of Aftermarket Airbag Systems
Pros:
- Eliminates truck sag and sway.
- Considerable cost savings compared to OEM replacements at dealerships.
- Extremely adjustable (from fundamental assistant bags to complete height-adjustable kits).
- Improves general stability when transporting top-heavy loads like truck campers.
Cons:
- Can cause a harsher trip if over-inflated while the truck is empty.
- Requires regular upkeep (checking for leaks and draining moisture).
- Installation might require drilling into the frame on particular older designs.
8. Regularly Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I install aftermarket air suspension bags myself?
Yes, most air helper spring kits for the Ram 1500 are designed for DIY installation. They generally require basic hand tools and about three hours of time. Nevertheless, full air management systems including compressors and electrical wiring might need professional installation.
Q2: Do aftermarket airbags void the Dodge service warranty?
Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a manufacturer can not void your whole service warranty since of an aftermarket part. Nevertheless, if the aftermarket air bag causes a failure in an associated part (e.g., the frame or factory shocks), that particular repair work might not be covered.
Q3: How much air pressure should I keep in my airbags?
For a lot of aftermarket systems, a minimum of 5 PSI is needed at all times to prevent the bag from pinching or tearing. When filled, pressures can be increased as much as 100 PSI depending on the specific package's requirements.
Q4: Are aftermarket SRS airbags safe?
If bought from respectable, qualified sources that satisfy Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS), they are practical. However, because of the intricacy of the Ram 1500's computer systems, lots of owners choose "New Old Stock" (NOS) or certified recycled OEM bags over unbranded generic variations.
Q5: Why is my factory air suspension stopping working?
Common concerns with the Ram 1500 factory air suspension include dripping air springs, stopped working compressors, or sensors that breakdown in freezing temperatures. Many owners find it more cost-efficient to replace unsuccessful factory components with aftermarket versions rather than replacing the whole system with coils.
9. Conclusion
The Dodge Ram 1500 is a flexible machine, and the aftermarket air bag market reflects that adaptability. Whether an owner is seeking to restore the security of their car after an accident or looking for to turn their truck into a hauling powerhouse, aftermarket parts provide a practical, cost-effective option. By understanding the differences in between SRS and suspension components, and by picking reputable brand names, Ram owners can ensure their car remains safe, level, and ready for any job.
