coilovers vs air ride [Archive]

allstar

06-20-2006, 03:50 PM

AIR! with all of the advances made in air ride technology, theres really no reason not to get it unless u actually race. and even then theres systems made for that haha.* *

some people are really limited. they dont coilovers for my car much less any applications for air ride. im really iffy about putting a universal junk system on my benz. i know some poeple with universal systems on their cars and theyre nitemares. since it is my daily i want to make sure its relaiable as *possible and a lot of that american made junk just wouldnt cut it. im going with springs and custom spring pads until i can find an air ride kit im comfortable with putting on my benz

V8_Aristo

06-20-2006, 04:10 PM

some people are really limited. they dont coilovers for my car much less any applications for air ride. im really iffy about putting a universal junk system on my benz. i know some poeple with universal systems on their cars and theyre nitemares. since it is my daily i want to make sure its relaiable as possible and a lot of that american made junk just wouldnt cut it. im going with springs and custom spring pads until i can find an air ride kit im comfortable with putting on my benz

Some US companies make pretty good stuff, I think a lot of the bad rep it's getting is from installers not knowing what they are doing. I've never done an air suspension system till I did mine, but there was about 6 months worth of research before I even actually started.

Shawn I know you're not looking for reasons but I have to let you know that the smoothness of air is I think worth every penny.

viplife

06-20-2006, 04:14 PM

im kind of torn... coilovers are for the hardcore who want to go low and stay low and have no desire to rise, but air is for panzies who dont want to scratch their aero kit on rough roads....

interesting how you've concluded that:

coilovers = hardcore
and air = panzy

i already know what my setup is..... ;)

so according to your equations, which are you? hardcore or panzy?

allstar

06-20-2006, 04:38 PM

Some US companies make pretty good stuff, I think a lot of the bad rep it's getting is from installers not knowing what they are doing. I've never done an air suspension system till I did mine, but there was about 6 months worth of research before I even actually started.

Shawn I know you're not looking for reasons but I have to let you know that the smoothness of air is I think worth every penny.

interesting. my research has shown otherwise.

links?

shawnthemonster

06-20-2006, 04:59 PM

interesting how you've concluded that:

coilovers = hardcore
and air = panzy

so according to your equations, which are you?* hardcore or panzy?

im a little of both :)
it will be a combo of the coilovers and air. the only reason tho is the speed bumps where i live. when i decited to really lower my car i snaged my engine on a speed bump (damn mid engine lower that the frame) and had a hard time getting free with out breaking something. so roberuta cups on my coilovers up front and replace my springs in the rear with bags (due to the fact the ear doesnt go low enough for my taste)

AME_VIP

06-20-2006, 05:13 PM

Air

After driving everywhere slammed to the ground and scraping everywhere, I would go air on my next car.

firelizard

06-20-2006, 05:18 PM

Air, definitely. I can't even imagine being low enough on coilovers. It might work for VW owners but I like having a whole front bumper :P
Also, air is supposed to be a softer, suppler right, correct?

ps: are Roberuta cups cups with an airbag inside that will push the body up off the strut, to raise the vehicle, allowing you to slam the coilovers but still raise it?

V8_Aristo

06-20-2006, 05:27 PM

interesting. my research has shown otherwise.

links?

http://www.universalairsuspension.com/

http://www.airliftcompany.com/

These are the 2 companies that I have used in the past and haven't had a problem with their products.

Dominik

06-20-2006, 05:36 PM

Having experienced factory air and also coilovers on a VIP car, i am of the opinion that coilovers are the way to go.

Reason? No bodyroll, no nosedives while braking and 100% predictable rideheight.

With air suspension, the soft and plush ride is fine when you are a driving straight along at normal (stock height). When you are driving just a little bit lower though (cos stock height looks gay), you have all sorts of things to worry about..

will an undulation in the road cause the kit to hit the ground?
will your sideskirts hit the ground when you swing your whale around the next corner?
will your front bar dig into the road when you do an emergency stop on the next traffic lights?
will you have a leak in one of your airlines or bags causing you to lay frame at 100km/h?

With coilovers you know how high the car is, so you can see if you can clear the obstacle/road etc. I found that the only time i was comfortable driving my Cima was when i had coilovers in it; and they were set lower than the normal drive height i had with airbags

Having said that though, i am really keen on the hybrid systems with coilovers and an airbag (or the Roberuta Cup system). This allows you to ride with the airbags completely deflated most of the time (using the coilover suspension), and but still be able to clear obstacles by raising it up when necessary

Oh and one last point: its much harder to do tsuraichi with airbags unless you have a threaded perch. almost all airbag setups i have seen tuck the wheels rather than have them perfect with the guards

firelizard

06-20-2006, 07:36 PM

Oh, good call Dominik
I had no idea air ride was *that* squishy. But on the other hand, how stiff is a coilover setup? I've heard they can be brutally bone jarring

Dominik

06-20-2006, 08:06 PM

I dont know about air ride specifically as a brand. I'm basing my experience on the factory air suspensioned cars i've owned (UZZ31 Soarer and Y31 Cima). Both had 'sport mode' which supposedly stiffened up the suspension but due to the low air pressures used to drive lowered, it was never enough to allay my fears.

I used to be all for Air suspension (in fact the only reason i put coilovers on the Cima was because the buyer wanted them), but experiencing the car with coilover (combined with the troubles i'd had with the airbags) I quickly reversed my stance.

I'm not a boy-racer, but i cant describe the looks on people's faces when your widebody, crazy VIP car beats them in a traffic light GP (with airbags the exhaust would hit the ground when i took off), or the respect you get when you keep up with a late model sports car around corners etc

I always assumed VIP cars were delicate beasts that had to be driven with extreme care and never just 'driven'. With coilovers it was just like driving my lowered accord: watch for speedhumps & steep driveways, for the rest its just a normal car!

mdenoga

06-20-2006, 08:36 PM

im a little of both :)
it will be a combo of the coilovers and air. the only reason tho is the speed bumps where i live. when i decited to really lower my car i snaged my engine on a speed bump (damn mid engine lower that the frame) and had a hard time getting free with out breaking something. so roberuta cups on my coilovers up front and replace my springs in the rear with bags (due to the fact the ear doesnt go low enough for my taste)

so that will make you a "hardcore panzy" :P j/p im a "panzy" so AIR all the way.

AME_VIP

06-20-2006, 09:41 PM

I have coilovers on my SC400, but I still get really bad body roll due to the stock sway bars. I really need some Daizen sway bars !

pitchedup

06-20-2006, 10:36 PM

http://www.universalairsuspension.com/

http://www.airliftcompany.com/

These are the 2 companies that I have used in the past and haven't had a problem with their products.

here are more companies...

http://www.contiairbag.com/
http://www.slamspecialties.com/
http://www.ridetech.com/

Pagong

06-21-2006, 10:48 AM

If money permits...AIR it is. The instant adjustability of air just makes it more appealing.

but coilovers will do the trick for now.

allstar

06-22-2006, 10:51 AM

here are more companies...

http://www.contiairbag.com/
http://www.slamspecialties.com/
http://www.ridetech.com/

i tried calling a lot of those poeple but i couldnt get prices out of them :knuppel2:

username

06-22-2006, 11:28 AM

try this link.
http://www.macsspring.com/

One Ton VIP

06-23-2006, 12:23 PM

i tried calling a lot of those poeple but i couldnt get prices out of them* :knuppel2:

Because there is no true bolt in application for your car... it's going to have to be custom, and it'd behoove you to find a shop that knows what they're doing to do the custom work

And air is winner overall... it's purpose is not to go high (though the ability to do so to clear big obstacles is a nice bonus), but a well-designed air setup is meant to allow you to cruise at a ride height lower than coilovers, AND park the car at a level that coilovers could only wish they could attain... low, and lower.

allstar

06-23-2006, 12:26 PM

Because there is no true bolt in application for your car... it's going to have to be custom, and it'd behoove you to find a shop that knows what they're doing to do the custom work

And air is winner overall... it's purpose is not to go high (though the ability to do so to clear big obstacles is a nice bonus), but a well-designed air setup is meant to allow you to cruise at a ride height lower than coilovers, AND park the car at a level that coilovers could only wish they could attain... low, and lower.

yeah i know its custom, but i just keep getting the run around.
im in houston. lots and lots of minitruckers here. ive got a few shops in mind.

Dominik

06-25-2006, 03:56 PM

a well-designed air setup is meant to allow you to cruise at a ride height lower than coilovers

Care to elaborate on this? Wouldnt the soft nature of air suspension mean that riding low puts you in danger of hitting the ground more than coilovers? Or are you talking about riding completely deflated with no air in the bags (i.e. it cant go lower so wont have that problem)?

OnTop

06-25-2006, 05:35 PM

riding with no air whether you have clearance or not will damage the cylinder/bag. as for cruising on air, lower than coilovers, i agree if its dialed in right. you can hand me the baddest set of coilovers but i'll take the simplest air setup over them any day.

Dominik

06-25-2006, 05:49 PM

Dont get me wrong, i am open to comments on my opinions (i've never had aftermarket air - just the OEM stuff).

Since you have had a big bodykit with airbags, how high do you normally drive? i.e. what sort of clearance do you need for the front bumper etc in day to day driving? With coilovers i anticipate being able to have around 2" or less clearance (although i'd love to try driving VW style with less than 1" clearance!)

OnTop

06-25-2006, 08:13 PM

Dont get me wrong, i am open to comments on my opinions (i've never had aftermarket air - just the OEM stuff).

Since you have had a big bodykit with airbags, how high do you normally drive?

on the highway=1"
in slow traffic= light scraping 1/4''?
neighborhoods or suburbs =1.5"
''spirited'' driving= 2"
at park=on the floor

its not like i pull over, set the hieght, and drive off before every road change. as odd as it may sound you just get used to it by how much your setup reacts to every time you hit the switches. if your air is in good order with no leaks then it will be consistant. personally when i drive, my other hand is always on the ''up'' switch just in case of a sudden bump or debris

VIPete

06-25-2006, 08:33 PM

Coilovers = Gangsta 24/7 and inconvenient
AIR = Dump it low when you want to, convenient to have

Depends on your taste...
if you want to be gangsta.. coils over air
if you want practical ... air over coils

Dominik

06-25-2006, 10:46 PM

I'm still confused how air can be soft yet doesn’t bottom out if you hit a slight dip in the road when you are riding with 1" clearance on the highway.

Or is it just part of the fun if it scrapes?

OnTop

06-26-2006, 07:32 AM

well even at 1'' if i hit a dip over the hwy i may scrape but i laugh while people cringe. probably because i can fix any damage with little cost

ImBox

06-26-2006, 09:11 AM

suspended can account for me when i say this but:

I really just laugh and cringe a little when i bottom out or have the fenders scrape the tire... dont get me wrong it sucks but I ride LOW!! suspended told me I'm crazy but I already knew that.. :-)

In all seriousness... I have air so I can slam when parked.. I also have air to ride low too.. I didnt put air on my box to be a 4x4. If I scrape then I scrape but if I see a big bump, don't get me wrong the sand instantly flies in the vaginal channel (sorry if this offends) and the finger presses the switches up.... scrapage is ok but ripping the bumper off is not cool.....

Dominik

06-26-2006, 04:54 PM

Ah, right, i understand now. Well I guess I would need to experience aftermarket air to see what it rides like down low.

Factory air rides like a big fat pillow down low and it rolls like a boat! Coupled with 1-2 minute raising time (no tanks, pumped up directly from the air pump), and unpredictable height changes (sometimes the front or back would just drop all the way down for no reason), expensive replacement parts that take 1-2 months to order from Japan, I guess its no surprise I quickly lost trust in the system

Coilovers are just more dependable for me so i will stick with them until i get sick of having to find smooth detours to every place i want to go.

ShaneC

06-28-2006, 04:27 PM

Having said that though, i am really keen on the hybrid systems with coilovers and an airbag (or the Roberuta Cup system). This allows you to ride with the airbags completely deflated most of the time (using the coilover suspension), and but still be able to clear obstacles by raising it up when necessary

i would really want to hear more about this. how does this work?! does the airbag sit where the springs of the coilover sit or is there some special set up??

Dominik

06-28-2006, 06:31 PM

I think it was Air Runner, that has a coilover strut, with a half length coilover spring. On top of that is another perch and then a half length airbag. When the bag is deflated, suspension is provided by the spring, otherwise the bag can lift the car. Not sure about the practical uses or comfort factor, but i know they arent cheap!

Roberuta Cup is just a cup that replaces the top spring cup of a coilover system. Inside it has a platform that can raise 4-7cm to give just a little more clearance when necessary. www.roberuta.com

AME_VIP

06-29-2006, 09:16 AM

Domink lets go back to what you said about how its tough to get tsuraichi with airbags.
Why is this and why do most people run slightly higher offsets to tuck the wheels in. Is this so you don't rub and can drop it lower?

pitchedup

06-29-2006, 10:35 AM

I think it was Air Runner, that has a coilover strut, with a half length coilover spring. On top of that is another perch and then a half length airbag. When the bag is deflated, suspension is provided by the spring, otherwise the bag can lift the car. Not sure about the practical uses or comfort factor, but i know they arent cheap!

airrunner is a are just air struts, using bags over a shock. I think you are refering to Air Cobra by Tanabe.

Dominik

06-29-2006, 04:21 PM

AME, i am talking about the kind of tsuraichi where the lip pokes out yet the tyre is still inside.

I dont know if i should have made the comment since i havent played with aftermarket airbags, but from what i can tell, with normal airbag setups (where an OEM strut has an airbag perch welded onto it), you only get one 'guess' at what the lowered height will be

If you end up with a 'slammed' height where the wheels are higher than the fender line (seems to be the normal result), you *have* to tuck unless you want your fender grinding against the lip of the wheel

Of course this would not be the case if you use:
- Bold World air setup with threaded lower seats
- Air Cobra (thanks Pitchedup!)
- Those airbags viplife was selling that were a donut that could fit over a pair of coilover struts (damn i kinda wish i had bought those now!)

Alot of people say that all the VIP guys in Japan use airbag suspension, but flipping through my magazines it would be less than 25% on aftermarket airbags, with most people on coilovers, and a few on factory air.

ShaneC

06-30-2006, 11:24 AM

thanks Dominik for clearing it up for me. makes me really interested in getting some airbags but i still need to do lots of research.

AME_VIP

06-30-2006, 11:51 AM

Here is the Tanabe link for Air Cobra: Anyone know what applications they have?
http://www.rd-tanabe.com/aircobra/index.html

I'm interested in learning more about fitment with air ride. It sounds like you would have to set the stance first, drop it as low as you will go, then choose wheels/offsets.

DXJP

07-01-2006, 03:26 AM

the air cobra is a nock off of a system mad sports made with a air cylinder over a coil spring. Much like the ruburta system. Now with either of these you get a stupid flimsy ride becouse you have a coil spring ossilating at a different rate then the air ossilation. The ruburta is intended for full up or full down and is a piss poor desing nock off of a oil system I designed here in Japan.

In fact I built the first air suspension in japan and have it documented in magazines as well as the first after market system with a internal shock.

I can explain in great detail how all of these systems works and their not so pro and cons.

Air runner is alright but the vehicle curb wheight is more than them dunlop sleves can handle and coupled with the attatchment wellded onto the shocks make for some piss poor enginering. Now I have heard that KYB has made some of their shocks with the mounts welded before assembly but have yet to conferm it. I know the owner of air runner here in japan and have delt with him for many years. Last I heard it was his son working the US side.

Air cobra and the ruburter took their Ideas from Mad Hopper wich was a copy of my system yet they incorperated a spring to get away from patent violations. Its nothing more than a bellows or air cylinder ontop of a spring. Becouse the laden weights of the vehicles and the diference in ossilation between the spring rates and the bellows/air cyilinders they are only good for full up or full down driving. With either you only get a 50mm stroke.

I am working on a new system that works much like aircraft landing gear yet you can ajdust the spring rates using nitrogen and also set bound and rebound dampening on the shock portion. This new system will fit vitrully any car is self contained and very compact. It requires no bulky airtanks or valves that can fault while driving.

I built the first and only system that has been proven in drifting and road racing as well as every day driving. I only offer it to select people becouse of everybody copying the design. The new system has been assembled and operates like a real ajustable suspension should. I am looking for manufacturing capital at this time and have applied for a patent. Ill update the forum when I have something to offer.

Dominik

07-01-2006, 08:25 AM

Wow, you really seem to know your stuff!

Just a question on the Roberuta ones though, i was under the impression that you would nearly never drive with the cups inflated - and that it was only to gain an extra 5-7cm clearance for speedhumps etc. When deflated, it would just be like a regular coilover, right?

Your new system sounds awesome, but also incredibly expensive... Is it more for track cars? Cos i am really not interested in improving handling in my car; i just want the option of clearing road obstacles if necessary

firelizard

07-01-2006, 08:48 AM

Well, I don't see what air choices we have other than "piss poor engineering" then.... ???
Roberuta style setup doesn't sound so bad if you're driving full down, which I'm sure anybody with sense would.

BASTOS

07-01-2006, 03:08 PM

BASTOS

07-02-2006, 11:54 AM

bump.

DXJP

07-02-2006, 05:44 PM

Does anyone know about the performance and comfort of Bold World air systems? The difference between their models? The difference between the full air systems and the air/ coilover? I'm not interested too much in race track handling but would like decreased body roll but more so being able to enjoy a luxurious ride while down low?

Bold used to buy from me OEM then they copied like everybodye here air runners origonal Air bomber system. Its exactly like it in every way. To reduce body roll ou need valves or switches on all for corners. IF speed isnt a problem use high speed manule valves.

Also Air dyne is another nock of they have copyed myself, canover, and air runner/air bomber. The f N Japanese goverment wont do shit to help us protect our patents. It was getting so bad that we Air runner, cannover, and myself made a group called the ASCA to pool our resorces to stop these asshats but all we did was end up spending money for nutin.

BASTOS

07-02-2006, 06:34 PM

Bold used to buy from me OEM then they copied like everybodye here air runners origonal Air bomber system. Its exactly like it in every way. To reduce body roll ou need valves or switches on all for corners. IF speed isnt a problem use high speed manule valves.

Also Air dyne is another nock of they have copyed myself, canover, and air runner/air bomber. The f N Japanese goverment wont do s*** to help us protect our patents. It was getting so bad that we Air runner, cannover, and myself made a group called the ASCA to pool our resorces to stop these asshats but all we did was end up spending money for nutin.

Thanks for the info. DJXP you seem to know your stuff very well seeing how you've designed all of these systems... So am I understanding you correctly by saying all of these systems out there are all pretty much the same (Air Runner/ Bold World/ Canover etc. ) Who makes the best system and if they're all pretty much the same would you say their performance is pretty good? What's the pros and cons with the full air systems vs the air/ coilover? Also you said you're designing a new system? Do you need any test cars here in the states? (Pick ME) haha Your opinion is much respected..

DXJP

07-03-2006, 02:45 AM

Bold and airdyne use a firestone 255 bag on a welded shock. I dont know if you have ever looked at a shock but it says do not heat or puncture. Well they manage to do both at the same time. Air bomber/ Air runner was made like this to.

Cannover is just a air cylinder with a valve in the top to control air movement to a reserve or as they say accumilater tank. What this does is control the speed the air can circulate between the strut and this air tank. It takes more air and more pressure for it to work. As well when you slow down the air speed you also slow down the rise and drop speed too.

Im not going to say which is best to me I can build any one of them for a 13 of the cost. This would have to be up to you and how much you wanna throw at it.

My new system will be cheeper than these air systms but not by a bunch a few hundred at least. I have all the cars I need to test on so I wont be sending any test peices to the states.

BASTOS

07-03-2006, 11:31 AM

8) Sounds intresting... how long before production for this new system? I have a good feeling about this. If you don't want to leak too much info out just yet can you please PM me with more details on the workings? Just the break down on how this system should be better... I read the earlier posts about it being similar to that of aircraft landing gear but I didn't quite understand how all of that should lead to a better suspension product. please enlighten me. Well I might not be able to be the test dummy for free but I'm always happy to be the first to try the latest and greatest anything... (being cheaper on the pocket doesn't hurt either) just let me know. thanks

V8_Aristo

07-03-2006, 11:33 AM

My new system will be cheeper than these air systms but not by a bunch a few hundred at least.* I have all the cars I need to test on so I wont be sending any test peices to the states.*

Let us know when you are done with your new system, I might want to buy your new air struts.

firelizard

07-03-2006, 12:37 PM

Let us know when you are done with your new system, I might want to buy your new air struts.

Ditto, if it's gonna be done within the next ~5 years

DXJP

07-03-2006, 05:35 PM

With out letting the cat out da bag. Air suspension relitivly dosent have a fixed spring rate. so your rate changes with air pressure, height, and bag/cyilinder type.

My new system has almost infinate spring rate adjustment coupled with damper ajustment. On top of that the ride height is seperate from these two adjustments.

To explain it in lamans tearms. Its like being able to swap springs at any time plus setting dampening rates plus ride height all on one unit.

Oh did I say you dont have to take it apart to do this. Ill blow your minds here in a bit with a pick of the pump soon to be here soon. Oh yeah I forgot this has power up and down to So I suppose we could do some VATO 3 wheeles too.

BASTOS

07-05-2006, 12:05 AM

Im in awww... I can't wait ::)

callaghan.

07-05-2006, 08:17 PM

ummagawd

07-11-2006, 01:37 PM

perhaps i should chime in...

i have a custom setup myself... it isn't essentially that much different than from what companies offer now

I basically have a an airbag that slides over my HKS coilover. I have the ability to go up and down, with the added adjustability a coilover provides. I get to choose where my max drop is at. In short, air suspension can be dialed in to handle however you want it (via PSI). But like how someone had mentioned... while you can adjust the PSI to make the car handle the way you want it... you have no control over the height at which this occurs. This is where my setup comes into play... because it's a coilover... I can adjust that. Right now... if i wanted to do some "spirited driving" I sit at about 60PSI out back and 100PSI up front... i get no body roll and the car (SC300) handles like its on rails.... and this is with a 2 finger gap all around. If i wanted to cruise for a softer ride... i lower the PSI's and thus lowering the car (no gap). If I wanted to make it so that my "sprited driving" settings were a little higher, I can... or lower.... I can do that too.

I've actually been working on a way to produce what I've designed. And though what I've done might not be as difficult to "copy" as DXJP's design (which sounds like an awesome design BTW) i have the same fear's as he does.

On top of that... I've only got a working setup on the SC300 with HKS coilovers.

Dominik

07-11-2006, 04:23 PM

Nice! Thats an air setup that i would be very interested in!

Is yours using the donut airbags that Universal Air makes? Or have you essentially come up with your own custom BoldWorld setup?

PM me if you are not keen on putting your design out there for anyone to copy - I am only after some suspension options for my own ride :)

DXJP

07-12-2006, 12:29 AM

its basicly the same as air cobra.

I did a device that threaded onto a coilover at the bottom of the spring. You could thread it up or down for ride height and still get 4 inches of travle. I didnt go into production becouse it wouldnt fit allot of aplications. But now that I have this sic ass little pump I could do it with hydrolics in a more compact design. You basicly could have full ajustable coils at the flick of a switch, and never give up spring rate or shock valving.

Dominik

07-12-2006, 12:38 AM

Ah, now thats an idea, a roberuta cup-style system done with hydraulics. Would love to have that jjeapp-jeeapp noise that they make when adjusting ;D

How did you make the 'device' that threaded onto the coilover? Did you have to custom fabricate the piston etc? Sounds expensive...

Pagong

07-12-2006, 10:18 AM

I have the SF1's from JIC, are the systems you guys are talking about
the ones that will replace the "helper" springs that are on top of the coilovers?

If you look at the picture the top part has smaller springs on top, are those the ones that you guys replace?http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y104/Pongpagong/DSCF0849.jpg

LSPinoy

07-12-2006, 01:40 PM

can someone educate me on these? i want to get air suspension for my mercedes, but this is the only company that i have found that makes them for my car? maybe some of you know more companies? also, has anyone heard of this company? thanks

the difference between the two kits is installation and time i believe

www.airbagit.com

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v103/lspinoy/FBSS_kit-II.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v103/lspinoy/FBSS5Fkit2DIII2Ejpg.jpg

by the way, back on topic i love my stock air suspension in the lexus its great.

alex

V8_Aristo

07-12-2006, 01:56 PM

can someone educate me on these? i want to get air suspension for my mercedes, but this is the only company that i have found that makes them for my car? maybe some of you know more companies? also, has anyone heard of this company? thanks

the difference between the two kits is installation and time i believe

www.airbagit.com

Do a search....

airbagit.com has a bad reputation :P

http://vipstylecars.com/forum/index.php?topic=3457.0

LSPinoy

07-12-2006, 02:07 PM

ahhhh thanks :(

that sucks.

DXJP

07-12-2006, 06:01 PM

Bad reputation hell

Joe Morrow has run to AU to get away from all the law suits filed against him. He is even being persued down there. DO NOT BUY FROM THEM.

OR CHASSIS TECH or any one of his fronts.

shawnthemonster

07-12-2006, 06:37 PM

so dxjp, whats so bad about the roberuta stuff?

DXJP

07-13-2006, 03:09 AM

so dxjp, whats so bad about the roberuta stuff?

Whats so good. Any body with a brain and a local machine shop could knok it out in a day. But for that price look at what you get 50mm of stroke that can only efectivly be used full up or full down. Anything in between and you will have the dynamic ossilation of the air chamber and the spring working against each other.

Does POGO stick ring a bell.

SilverFocusZX3

07-13-2006, 06:49 AM

I have to agree with everyone else. Joe Marrow made a lot of enemies in the industry. I dont know much about air ride systems but I know to stay away from airbagit for sure.

ummagawd

07-13-2006, 08:28 AM

yea.... as dxjp mentioned... that's the only drawback to the setup i'm using... it'll only work on application in which there is a good amount of room between fenderwall and the suspension itself.

there is a possible fix for the oscilation problem of using bags as "helper" type suspension... place a 1 way check valve on the dump side of the valve. If you're using good stuff... it shouldn't let air in and allow oscillation. The only small bit of oscillation you'd get is the softness of the airbag (think the soles of your shoes) but shouldn't be much.

But I agree... it's still not the way to go... those types of systems only give you a minimal amount of travel (2.5-3 inches) which won't do much if you have a front lip and are slammed. For me in particular... I usually ride pretty low... and 3 inches higher up front and I'll still scrape moderate driveways.

pgmotoringusa

07-13-2006, 11:01 AM

Air all the way man! why are people panzy for not wanting to ruin a $5000 body kit? does cracking the shit out of your bumper, make you hardcore? i mean coilover has its advantages but it doesn't beat the easy adjustability of ride height on air for low VIP cars.

If anyone need some universal air suspension. my japan office is a distributor for them and we are close to the president. You can PM me or email me.

http://www.universalairsuspension.com/

Thanks

Dominik

07-13-2006, 04:21 PM

ummagawd, at least you can get up the driveways. The height i plan on riding my coilovers at would mean all but completely flat driveways are out of the question. Having a roberuta cup system, or a mini bag that gives me an extra 2" clearance would be very helpful in that case.

pgmotoring, i am interested in knowing more about some of the airbag systems you distribute... I sent you a PM, although you might want to add info about your hybrid systems on this thread for others to see.

Jimmy

08-21-2006, 08:29 PM

not to hi-jack your thread, but whats a good brand for air suspension?

Universal Air

08-25-2006, 03:22 PM

DXPJ, Whats your impression of our strut bag (Universal Air), with the inner chamber to keep the air pressure off of the shock.

hondaboi

10-26-2006, 03:05 AM

Just doing a bump on this...

are the universal air suspension available for the previas? or does the word universal mean that you can put it at any car??

im new to this air stuff :)

One Ton VIP

10-26-2006, 08:45 PM

aireck

10-28-2006, 05:01 AM

SO WITH WHAT YOU ARE SAYING I CAN ADD UNIVERSAL'S STRUT BAGS ON MY CUSCO VACANZAS AND STILL BE ABLE TO GET AT LEAST A 2" LIFT......????

I KNOW THE REAR OF AN XB IS EASY TO BAG .. JUST NEED THE RIGHT BRACKETS BUT FOR THE FRONT ....
THIS WOULD BE SOMETHING I WANT....

hondaboi

10-28-2006, 01:24 PM

You can use the universal air susp's strut bags over the front struts, but the rear of the car uses a separate spring/shock setup that is actually easier to bag... cuz you then only need to use a plain, affordable bag.. but you will still have to fabricate brackets to mount it in place. Not sure if this was touched on yet, but if you use the strut bags over a stock strut, don't expect to be able to go that low... and don't expect the ride to be so good if you plan to drive at a height lower than 2-3" from stock. This is because most-but not all-stock struts are long, and not designed to be ridden so low, nor are they capable of going too low when fully compressed. If you ran the strut bags on a good set of short-stroke struts or coilovers though... then that would be a potentially winner setup

Hi One Ton!!

Thanks for helping me answer this. So just to confirm that there are affordable bag and expensive bags?

http://www.universalairsuspension.com/# I saw this site and they seem like a good company, but of course I dont know anything. hahaha..

I am also comparing it to airrunner, and the airrunners prices is like $4000usd for a whole kit. Does all kits cost that much? I just quickly glanced at universal air suspension and their kits cost like $2000usd or something like that..

Is it also possible to have a custom setup where you buy your own parts and stuff??

I apologize for any silly questions, and going all over the place with my question..

regards

mdenoga

10-28-2006, 04:00 PM

the air runner kit is definitely worth it.

http://myspace-645.vo.llnwd.net/01266/54/65/1266005645_l.jpg

stock versus air runner
http://myspace-552.vo.llnwd.net/01349/25/58/1349398552_l.jpg

thanks van for the install.

ScottyTuned

10-28-2006, 04:08 PM

Im a coilover man myself, but Im in the same position as Ontop, in that if I do fudge it up by hitting something, I can fix it cheaply. I dont mind cruising 1" off the ground really. Sure turns heads :D

hondaboi

10-29-2006, 01:57 AM

silly quick question...what is cheaper? Air or coilover?

Im referring to previas?!

mdenoga

10-29-2006, 02:18 AM

silly quick question...what is cheaper? Air or coilover?

Im referring to previas?!

coilovers. u can get a set of coilovers for the previa anywhere from $750-$2000 on yahoo auction japan. for instance, a set of tanabes cost around $800 and hks is about $1500. air setup would cost u like $2000+. air runner would cost u $3500 or so. i say air runner is definitely worth it.

hondaboi

10-29-2006, 12:48 PM

coilovers. u can get a set of coilovers for the previa anywhere from $750-$2000 on yahoo auction japan. for instance, a set of tanabes cost around $800 and hks is about $1500.* air setup would cost u like $2000+. air runner would cost u $3500 or so. i say air runner is definitely worth it.

I would like to run air runner...but man, Bling bling!!! I just put new shocks too on my van! haha.

Maybe a custom airbag? is that possible just like how universal air suspension? What parts are needed? geez..I feel stupid, I keep looking at the website (universal air suspension) and I dontk now what I need. hhaha

V8_Aristo

10-29-2006, 03:33 PM

I would like to run air runner...but man, Bling bling!!! I just put new shocks too on my van! haha.

Maybe a custom airbag? is that possible just like how universal air suspension? What parts are needed? geez..I feel stupid, I keep looking at the website (universal air suspension) and I dontk now what I need. hhaha

Give them a call and they will help you out.

bippuslut

10-29-2006, 07:03 PM

callaghan.

10-30-2006, 12:19 AM

I'm trying to search and find out all i can about air ride (some aspects confuse me).

But is air ride systems appropriate for environments with bad climates? I'm in chicago and i'm worried negative temp in the winters to 100+ in the summers will screw up the rubber membrane.

Anyone know? :laugh:

nope, theyre fine in the winter. a friend of mine literally plows his driveway w/ his bagged s10 xtreme haha. driving in snow is def alittle harder than a normal car, but the parts can handle it.

hondaboi

10-30-2006, 02:13 AM

Give them a call and they will help you out.

Kool...I will send them an email.

Thank you V8 Aristo! :)

DXJP

10-30-2006, 02:40 AM

When Toyota built the XB DJ machine they used my suspension. As you can see the car is still on the road and this has been three years at least with all the added weight as well. My bolt on rear bag set up works slick with a firestone 225 bag and a few bolts.

I dont have any cylinders in stock as well the XB was built 1 inch over full drop to save the wide body but to give you an idea here is the BB I built for sema 4 years ago.

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y182/DXJP/SEMAbB.jpg

JDMGalant

10-30-2006, 04:28 AM

Excellent topic. Learning so much! I had the Tein SS on my galant and didnt like the fact that I was slammed and scraping everywhere. I was thinking JIC FLA2 or whatever that model is, but im thinking of going EasyStreet Air setup http://www.easystreetair.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=686 but is it better to use Regular shocks (i.e KYB AGX Adjustable) versus the Air Struts ona bagged system when it comes to dampening/rebound rate? My suspension is equal to a 00+ Eclipse (AKA 3rd Generation).

ScottyTuned

10-30-2006, 02:46 PM

When Toyota built the XB DJ machine they used my suspension.* As you can see the car is still on the road and this has been three years at least with all the added weight as well.* My bolt on rear bag set up works slick with a firestone 225 bag and a few bolts.*

I dont have any cylinders in stock as well the XB was built 1 inch over full drop to save the wide body but to give you an idea here is the BB I built for sema 4 years ago.

Wow thats an amazing xB DXJP. Ive always idolized it, even though it has very nontraditional color. Well done! 8)

stankubrick

10-30-2006, 04:05 PM

I don't see why anyone would prefer coilovers to air other than for financial reasons. I've had 2 sets of coilovers now for my xB, both super high quality and with smooth rides, but at the height I *really* liked it - it was undriveable. From now on, it's only gonna be air for me...

And now the nob questions:
Now why is Air Runner so superior/expensive? Being that I am NOT mechanically inclined, can I install it and forget about it (little to no maintenace)... or is that just not realistic with air setups, meaning there's no fail-safe setup.

Dominik

10-30-2006, 06:08 PM

Why i prefer coilovers? reliability... I had a horrible time with my last air suspensioned car, finding spare parts and having it beached on the side of the road because a popped bag.

I am open to being convinced the other way though. Show me an air sus'ed car that can still have tight suspension down low, and easily replaced bags and i'd be sold. Until then i'm happy at a fixed height

hondaboi

10-31-2006, 01:31 AM

curious..is this an airbag coilover kit??

http://bag03pr000.ac.yahoo.co.jp/users/8/9/4/6/dachshund_fendi3-imgbatch_1162183797/373x600-2006012600005-13.jpg

hondaboi

10-31-2006, 01:45 AM

oh, just wondering again..

anything bad in purchasing used airbag systems?

V8_Aristo

10-31-2006, 09:04 AM

curious..is this an airbag coilover kit??

Yes it is, I think the concept of the Air Cobra is....

You have the adjustability and performance of a coilover while having that extra 2 inch dump. Since the air bag is thin, I think it was only meant to have it either fully inflated or fully deflated.

hondaboi

10-31-2006, 10:46 AM

ohhh!!!
thats cool!! but many its crazy expensive :)
its like 300000 yen!

But with regards to buying used airbag system...is it advisable?

pitchedup

10-31-2006, 11:38 AM

Try going to a mini truckin' shop and see what air system can they put together for you.

Have you considered hydraulics? there are 2 pump kits that are about 1k for FBSS. Maybe Juicewagon can help you out on hydraulics since I think he is the only member here with hydraulics.

DXJP

10-31-2006, 11:58 AM

Hydro is a piece of piss. You can use one pumps and a manifold for all your moves and use say 300cc acumalaters for the ride. The front can use a reverse flow 6 or 8 inch cylinder and you couod even drop a coil on it for a little bit more on the smooth.

For the back you can use a 8 inch skinny cylinder with a side port and a hymes joint on both sides to mount to the factory. Again the accumes and you can knock a few coils out of the factory spring as well.

Now the pump can be mounted under the car in the back. I cant remember the name of it but long ago like 3 or 4 years back was a pump and manifold that ran on 12 volts it had FBSS and ports for acumalaters. It wasnt rocket fast which is good if you ave a kit, but it was the perfect thing in its day.

If you have any Q's on hydro or air let me know I have juced almost everything Also if your close to upland Socal you could stop by Happo's and talk to Art about jucing your ride show him this post and he will know exactly what you need.

V8_Aristo

10-31-2006, 12:06 PM

ohhh!!!
thats cool!! but many its crazy expensive :)
its like 300000 yen!

But with regards to buying used airbag system...is it advisable?

Thats roughly 3k, cheaper than Air Runner.

I don't trust used airbag systems, since people cab lie to you about it's condition.

I have looked under a Previa before and it actually not that hard to fabricate a system for it. The fronts can use an Aero Sport bag to go on the strut and the rear can use an Air House with custom mounts. Both the bags are made by Universal Air Suspension, they also make fabrication plates and mounts to make an installation eaiser.

One Ton VIP

10-31-2006, 01:07 PM

I have looked under a Previa before and it actually not that hard to fabricate a system for it. The fronts can use an Aero Sport bag to go on the strut and the rear can use an Air House with custom mounts. Both the bags are made by Universal Air Suspension, they also make fabrication plates and mounts to make an installation eaiser.

Unfortunately, to go really low in the rear of a previa, you'll want to modify the stock spring mounts, and weld the air spring brackets on... this is how air runner's setup is for the rear. Of course, once you have the capability to get the spring to go that low... the next hurdle is the frame rail, and the upper links. Notch and bend those, respectively, and you could potentially tuck quite a bit of tire in the rear. If you ever see a previa/estima with live axle tuck even just a bit of tread on the back (of a low profile tire), there's a bit of work that went into that car.

V8_Aristo

10-31-2006, 01:11 PM

Thanks Van for elaborating, as I haven't done it.

So how low will the rears go if you just left the stock spring pearches where it sits?

One Ton VIP

10-31-2006, 01:12 PM

And now the nob questions:
Now why is Air Runner so superior/expensive? Being that I am NOT mechanically inclined, can I install it and forget about it (little to no maintenace)... or is that just not realistic with air setups, meaning there's no fail-safe setup.

Another thing to remember about air runner is that they use predominantly Firestone components in their kits... so you're paying for parts that were made in the US, shipped to Japan, assembled into a kit (and in the case of the bags, assembled on to Japanese-made struts), and then shipped back to the states. As an all-inclusive kit, I think their stuff is the best to get though... there's not many other companies that offer a bolt-in kit that is as comprehensive, with as many quality components and fittings. But.. if you wanted to be a little DIYish, you could also easily put together something that's even better, for less...

One Ton VIP

10-31-2006, 01:24 PM

Thanks Van for elaborating, as I haven't done it.

So how low will the rears go if you just left the stock spring pearches where it sits?

Hmm, the problem is that the rear uses a separate spring cup on the frame rail and lower suspension link.. and you know how they have the raised center section so that the spring doesn't pop out... those raised sections are the prob, cuz you gotta account for them, AND still make sure your air spring bracket has room for the fitting on top etc. Cutting that extended pad section and welding the air spring bracket will probably get you another almost inch vs. not cutting it. This doesn't sound like much.. but when you consider that even with cutting and welding the perch on you can barely tuck tire in the back at full down, that extra inch means that even at full down on a non-cut setup, you'll still potentially have some gap

V8_Aristo

10-31-2006, 01:30 PM

Hmm, the problem is that the rear uses a separate spring cup on the frame rail and lower suspension link.. and you know how they have the raised center section so that the spring doesn't pop out... those raised sections are the prob, cuz you gotta account for them, AND still make sure your air spring bracket has room for the fitting on top etc. Cutting that extended pad section and welding the air spring bracket will probably get you another almost inch vs. not cutting it. This doesn't sound like much.. but when you consider that even with cutting and welding the perch on you can barely tuck tire in the back at full down, that extra inch means that even at full down on a non-cut setup, you'll still potentially have some gap

Cool, thanks for the info!

That was my plan if I was to do a set up like that.

bippuslut

10-31-2006, 01:40 PM

nope, theyre fine in the winter. a friend of mine literally plows his driveway w/ his bagged s10 xtreme haha. driving in snow is def alittle harder than a normal car, but the parts can handle it.

Thanks. That was the only thing i was worried about (that plus coming up with the money)

shawnthemonster

10-31-2006, 03:03 PM

hey van you will have to elp me when i get the air for my tcr.

mdenoga

10-31-2006, 04:04 PM

shawn you're not that far away so it shouldnt be a problem then we could hang out and i'll some you some "interesting" previas in the bay area. haha

hondaboi

11-01-2006, 01:01 AM

thanks for all the info!! very informative!! much appriciated :)

I really have to think as to what I want for my previa in the future :)

I got a reply from universal Air suspension and they recommend me the $2300usd kit!! It uses Areo Sport for the fronts and Airhouse 2 for the rear. They recommended me the $2300usd kit because of the following advantage (according to them)

-Polished stainless steel tank - no rust
-Water proof 1/2" valves
-2 viair 480 compressors instead of 1 viair 380
-8 valve kit so no body roll when you turn (fbss)

Silly question..what does FBSS stand for?

Can with regards to the compressors....cant I use two 380 viair instead of 2 480's and pay less? And what is the 8 valve kit, does it really reduce body roll?

thanks :)

pitchedup

11-01-2006, 01:08 AM

Silly question..what does FBSS stand for?

Front, Back, Side to Side

hondaboi

11-01-2006, 01:24 AM

Front, Back, Side to Side

duh me! hahaha...make sense! Thank you :uglystupid2:

Yokotas13

11-01-2006, 02:11 AM

Being that i have BOTH setups on my cars

I would opt for a DUal Coilover /airride setup such as a Tein setup. It consists of coilover lowers, with a built in airbag at the top that varies ride height 2-4 inches depending on application

My 180sx has coilovers and is slammed as you can see here
http://static.flickr.com/118/285558159_42afb2b902.jpg
The tires on the 17s are under the fender lips in teh front and rear, i also had to bang in teh front fender liner, and countless other harness moving and crap.
It is bonejarring, even on the softest dampning, and almost no preload, But it gives me tha stance and handling i want.
BUt i have officially cracked my Uras N+ front bumper, that was decently expensive.

On the other side of the spectrum, my other car a 1996 VW Vento VR6 with 10 gallons of air capaceity at 130PSI, air cylinders rear, and air bags front, well sucks
To say the least
most of it is becuase of poor hardware that is avaliable to me in japan, and the sizing from metric and standard size hoses and fittings making an extremely small leak on the cylinder fittings, but thats not the major bad thing.

WHen you buy an airride setup, make sure it has a 100% money back guarantee on fitment. The kit i ordered, i was told it owuld fit. It had a Sleeve setup on the rear, and a double convoluted bag on strut setup in the front. well in 6 months, 3 of the 4 bags have blown
The rear were replaced with Air cylinders, guaranteed not to pop. And i still haev to get the front left bag (which is only 60 bucks for a replacement, but still a hastle)
I was told by Airbagit.com that it would work, no problem, got no discount on cylinders once the bags blew, had to pay full price ebcuase they were the only ones that made a kit for a VW that i could find.

But, they are fun, i have 10 switches, and all the fun to go with it. i leave hte compressor running all the time, since it has a pressure cutout switch, adn i have a circuit breaker, so if it pulls too many amps, it shuts off instead of blowing fuses i have to replace.
The ride is considerably hard to get just perfect, lots of bouncing, jarring, scraping etc etc if you dont haev it just right. But when you do it is like OEM and better. There are auto leveling units out there for 500+ and are worth it, set your ride height, and it keeps it. end of story

Also dont forget with airbags you have to constantly adjust for hte number of people in the car, position of them, luggage, etc etc etc.

Go with the Coilover/airbag dual setups. its the way to go

username

11-01-2006, 06:25 AM

I was told by Airbagit.com that it would work, no problem, got no discount on cylinders once the bags blew, had to pay full price ebcuase they were the only ones that made a kit for a VW that i could find.

right there, theres your problem.
HAHA

V8_Aristo

11-01-2006, 09:07 AM

hondaboi

11-01-2006, 10:19 AM

FBSS = front back side to side, this means you can control you car to dip and raise in any direction you want.

Technically 8 valves will reduce bodyroll since all the bags are independent. With less valves, bags will share valves and increase bodyroll

Yes, you can use 2 380s

Thank you again Aristo!

I am leaning more towards airbags, I dunno why, but it seems like its cool! haha

sukoshiyoshi

11-01-2006, 11:55 AM

AIR COBRA BABY! If the world we perfect and you had deep pockets that would be the best way to go. The best of both worlds. Coil-overs would be the route to go if you are thinking "performance". But I think that you are no longer into that "Previa drifting" thing anymore right? As many have posted already the best air would be to go with AIR-RUNNERs. You will have way more stability compared to let's say the Universal Air System. Not to put their systems down or anything because if I do go air that is the system that I would go with. Only because I am running your old TEIN coil-overs and figure why rip it out...just add on. My custom "Air Cobra" set up. If I were to spend big bucks on a kit......I would like to try to avoid any damages as much as possible. Try to protect my investment. Just my .02 cents.

Sukoshiyoshi

Dominik

11-01-2006, 01:28 PM

I saw an article in VIPCar mag about a GS dropped with Aircobra. At the lowest setting (coilovers maxed low, 0psi) it looked like a mildly lowered car. They had to get an SS Kit and some other stuff in order to get it low enough to be a nice vip car...

Not sure how it is with other cars, but when i saw that i realised there is only so much room in there for a bag/spring combo; you will be sacrificing the ride of the coilovers (short springs), and not much capability to raise it like regular bags...

gmckey

11-01-2006, 01:55 PM

I have coils on my S14 w/ 17's and stretched tires slammed tucking tire front and rear 235/40 on 9-15F and 255/40 on 10+2 rear (rear is only slightly pulled w/ camber at 4* all around to tuck the large tires on all stock fenders... but to me that car rode like it should for a 'sports' car. wasn't too bad unless you got stuck on a crappy rode or just hit a pothole or something. The car served it's purpose most of the time, but in the end, driving tucking 17's with the front fiberglass bar 1" off the ground daily just got old. And while it rode like I thought it should, it was more of a pain in the ass after a while than anything.

that being said, I also went with coil's (mostly because I'm used to them and can't afford air sus right now) for my 99 UCF. As soon as I can sell the S14, I'll be purchasing wheels for it. But in the mean time, I had to get something to tighten up the full out floaty boat suspension the lexus has stock. I mean, it rides like I think a big ass luxury car should, but I want something with a bit less body roll around corners just for my driving style and what I'm accustomed to coming from my old 240.

On the other side, I hope that the JIC FLTA2 VIP's won't sacrifice too much ride comfort compared to the stock suspension. I mean, I did buy a Lexus to be comfortable and not be cringing at every break in the pavement.

Anyone got experience firsthand w/ the FLAT2 VIP's and their dampening and comfort level? I keep reading about everyone saying air sus can as good or better than stock ride if you have quality parts and have it set up correctly. Can the same be said about 'VIP' coilovers?

DXJP

11-01-2006, 04:17 PM

Front back side to side

Previa only needs a 225 and some plates welded in the rear and any air strut up front. You can tuck a solid if you 4 link it and fab the axle cups.

If you make a slip over for the front with a triple convulute you can slam the shit out of it, Im in Saudi right now or I would throw up a pic of one scooping pavement.

This works on the tcr's the new estimas have a funky of axis top mount. You have to make sure you are square on it. DONT assume a pillow ball will work for this you will put the full load on one side of the pillow ball and it will fail.

shawnthemonster

11-01-2006, 06:40 PM

Previa only needs a 225 and some plates welded in the rear and any air strut up front.* You can tuck a solid if you 4 link it and fab the axle cups.

can you elaborate some more please? im really interested in the pats i could use..

callaghan.

11-02-2006, 10:04 AM

dont be a ***** and bag your car. unless you plan on racing your sedan. neat. case closed.

battleaxe

11-04-2006, 04:59 PM

ive got coils on the 240 slammed on jam
its pimp as hell, but atthe same time ur limited to where u can go
plus i destroyed 2 oil pans being that low... then i lowered it more cause its not my daily no more :angel:

i also dont go many places with speedbumps and well i like to go as low as possible

im dong air on the cressy im picking up
15x9 0 or sumin lower
it will be nice cause where i daily my car i have to go over a lot of speed bumps and its just a pain in the ass to slow down so much all the time

i say go air unless u dont daily ur vip much

and if u have to ask someone else if ur low enough, then ur not... or u shouldnt be low in the first place

aireck

11-09-2006, 08:23 PM

ive got coils on the 240 slammed on jam
its pimp as hell, but atthe same time ur limited to where u can go
plus i destroyed 2 oil pans being that low... then i lowered it more cause its not my daily no more* :angel:

i also dont go many places with speedbumps and well i like to go as low as possible

im dong air on the cressy im picking up
15x9 0 or sumin lower
it will be nice cause where i daily my car i have to go over a lot of speed bumps and its just a pain in the ass to slow down so much all the time

i say go air unless u dont daily ur vip much

and if u have to ask someone else if ur low enough, then ur not... or u shouldnt be low in the first place

i have that same problem.....
but i agree with what you said!!

hondaboi

11-18-2006, 03:51 AM

quick question..

can coilovers go as low as bag systems?

username

11-18-2006, 09:06 AM

it can touch ground like airbags if you cut shit load of links off. how you going to get over the bumps if you cut the links off of the spring?

callaghan.

11-18-2006, 09:37 AM

quick question..

can coilovers go as low as bag systems?

yeah, but u cant drive anywhere. bags can lay your car on the ground. no coilover will do that and be functional

C4 President

11-18-2006, 11:36 AM

I perfer air becuse I have broken a lot of kits on my previous cars and they have cracked. basically, its which ever one will last the longest. But I know for my wifes Aristo, she wants air runner :idiot2:

sukoshiyoshi

11-19-2006, 11:46 PM

^^^^^Sounds like your Wife is a keeper! She knows a good thing (in this case "AIR RUNNER) when she sees it. Hopefully she is as supportive and still wants you to do the AIR RUNNERs after you tell her how much it is going to cost her.

Air all the way!

Sukoshiyoshi

dilemma

11-25-2006, 04:17 PM

air, i just recently rode in a car with air. loved it. :smitten:

VI IX

09-18-2008, 01:40 AM

vzuptnguyen

09-18-2008, 02:01 AM

but air is for panzies who dont want to scratch their aero kit on rough roads....

i dont know if you just "scratch" your bumper. with all the cheap fiberglass material produced by the japanese companies. you are likely to crack your bumper.

if thats what you mean, then sure. people are too afraid to break their $1200 bumper because of a driveway :biggthumpup:

4play4dr

09-18-2008, 02:25 PM

i have coilovers..and i kinda wish i went air..its just a luxury of raising the car for a speed bump or driveway..i scrape EVERYWHERE! gettin kinda annoying now

intezza

09-18-2008, 04:55 PM

I used to run air and yea I didnt scrape as much but in the time I had air I blew a bag, the fuse burnt out durning a photoshoot and I went through 3 compressors after that I have always used coils and I have been better off ever since.

IS3_FTW

09-21-2008, 03:54 PM

so i just read this thread from beginning to end... seems like 2 years ago, having air bags were impossible to get a hold of, and when you did, they were pieces of shi*. So my question is, has the hype of bags shadowed its actually quality? or are bags just that much better now. And so far, everyone that i've asked, would preffer a coilover/bag set up.

They have gotten better through time. Peeps still buy them and put them on their cars. It depends on what route you want to go.

For you last comment, just do some more research. Its in here.

Good Luck

RotaryAE86

09-22-2008, 08:40 PM

air will be my personal choice for the ability to go anywhere and the comfort for my daily

widebody_Q

09-22-2008, 09:25 PM

My next ride will be on coilovers. Don't get me wrong, I love bags but after a while, I started driving with the compressors off and now im like "I could of been doing the same thing with coilovers"

09-22-2008, 09:31 PM

word... i'm thinkin coilovers on the new project. thinkin bags, shocks, and a gang of missing metal on the old one.

kaizer

09-22-2008, 10:59 PM

My next ride will be on coilovers. Don't get me wrong, I love bags but after a while, I started driving with the compressors off and now im like "I could of been doing the same thing with coilovers"

Most of the time, yes. But in 1/1000 chances that you'll need the height to cross over some obstacle. Without air, you're stuck.

Maybe you guys should consider hybrids? Roberuta Cups anyone?

widebody_Q

09-22-2008, 11:34 PM

Most of the time, yes. But in 1/1000 chances that you'll need the height to cross over some obstacle. Without air, you're stuck.

Maybe you guys should consider hybrids? Roberuta Cups anyone?

There are times that my car does get stuck with the wheels spinning. Everyone starts laughing then I hit the switches, and the car is up and on its way. Everyone then stops laughing and they have confused faces like they just saw Jesus.

I don't think I would have the patience (or pride) to leave my car and push it in front of people when im stuck lol. Thats one of the cons about driving low with coilovers.

There is no way to win I guess. Just drive low and deal with what ever problems air or coilovers bring you because driving low = billy badass status

VipDout

09-22-2008, 11:43 PM

I love both .. but I miss having the look of AHHHHHHHHH on the faces from being low in my car ... but with my air set up I had No idea I was this High driving .

I get all kinds of wierd ass sounds driving low so leave it this high and ehh whatever for now

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a138/Brandicus/HINANDEOS7/P1020211.jpg

damn .. high as hell ... 25 mil spacers scare me from being lower

VI IX

09-23-2008, 12:42 AM

There are times that my car does get stuck with the wheels spinning. Everyone starts laughing then I hit the switches, and the car is up and on its way. Everyone then stops laughing and they have confused faces like they just saw Jesus.

haha. "He's much taller in person"

ScottyTuned

09-23-2008, 01:12 AM

Im still all for coilovers. I love the fact when people ask me what kind of bags Im on and I can look them in the face and say "this is coilovers, and this is how it always is". Bags would be nice, especially since I live in a real winter state, but I still think the price/"wow" factor of hitting switches isnt there for me. I think if I had bags Id still ride stupid low and break kits as much as I currently do.

widebody_Q

09-23-2008, 01:48 AM

haha. "He's much taller in person"

lol it was nice meeting u

09-23-2008, 09:19 AM

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a138/Brandicus/HINANDEOS7/P1020211.jpg

wow.. you need to learn you gauges bro. =)

RotaryAE86

09-25-2008, 04:10 PM

dont get me wrong, i use coilovers on everything else (hachi, talon, alltrac) but i dont see how you could run coilovers slammed and drive everywhere scraping. ill put up with the hassle when a compressor goes out or when a bag blows (hopefully wont be too often) for the ability to be able to adjust my ride height on-the-fly BUT thats just my opinion

JN.FYC

09-25-2008, 06:32 PM

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a138/Brandicus/HINANDEOS7/P1020211.jpg

That's so high you can stick a six pack in it.

SikNLow

09-26-2008, 07:10 AM

i like riding low like i'm on coilovers, but love lifting it all up like i got a FOX racing sticker on my rear windshield when there's an obstacle, then immediately go back to low low mode hahahahahaha

Sleepy122CID

09-28-2008, 11:23 AM

I've been looking into getting air suspension for a Q45, but I still can't decide for sure if I'll go coilovers or air.

I don't really want to slam my car when parked. My desired height for everyday driving isn't stupid low, maybe no tire gap or slight tire tuck. Although air would be nice to drop a little lower or raise to clear obstacles, my main reason for wanting air suspension is for ride quality.

I have a S13 that is my fun car. I don't need my Q to handle like a race car. I just want it to look nice and ride near as comfortable as stock or better. I do not want it to ride like my S13! Are there coilovers that retain near stock ride quality?