Kelderman air ride suspension enhances vehicle stability, payload capacity, and ride comfort through adjustable air springs. This heavy-duty system replaces traditional leaf springs with pneumatic components, allowing real-time load balancing and height adjustments. Particularly favored for trucks and RVs, it reduces wear on tires/chassis while improving handling on uneven terrain. Professional installation ensures optimal performance and safety compliance.
What Makes Kelderman Different From Standard Suspension Systems?
Unlike static leaf spring suspensions, Kelderman’s modular air system uses multiple air bags per axle (typically 4-8) for dynamic load distribution. This multi-chamber design enables precise pressure adjustments through dash-mounted controls, maintaining optimal ride height regardless of cargo weight. The system’s progressive damping adapts to road conditions automatically – a feature absent in conventional setups.
Which Vehicles Benefit Most From Kelderman Upgrades?
Class 7-8 trucks, heavy-duty pickups (Ford F-450/Ram 5500), and large RVs see transformative improvements. Vehicles frequently carrying variable loads over 15,000 lbs gain enhanced stability, while those traveling off-road or on poorly maintained highways experience 40-60% vibration reduction. Towing applications particularly benefit from eliminated axle wrap and reduced trailer sway.
How Does the Automatic Leveling Feature Operate?
Integrated height control valves constantly monitor chassis position, adjusting individual air spring pressures within 0.5 PSI accuracy. This happens through a network of pneumatic lines and electronic sensors that compensate for load shifts during acceleration/braking. The system can maintain ±0.25″ ride height variance even with uneven payload distribution.
Can you use air suspension without a compressor?
What Maintenance Does Kelderman Suspension Require?
Bi-annual inspections of air lines, fittings, and bag membranes are critical. Use only DOT-approved air brake system lubricants on mechanical components. Moisture traps in the air supply system require monthly draining to prevent corrosion. Unlike leaf springs needing periodic re-arching, air springs typically last 8-12 years before membrane replacement becomes necessary.
Regular maintenance extends beyond basic checks. Technicians should perform torque verification on all mounting hardware during inspections, as vibration can loosen critical fasteners over time. The compressor assembly requires annual filter replacement and bearing lubrication. For fleets operating in coastal regions, stainless steel air line upgrades are recommended to combat salt corrosion.
| Component | Maintenance Interval | Key Action |
|---|---|---|
| Air Springs | Every 6 months | Inspect for abrasions/ozone cracking |
| Height Control Valves | Every 25,000 miles | Lubricate pivot points |
| Air Dryer | Annual | Replace desiccant cartridge |
Can Existing Vehicles Be Retrofit With Kelderman Systems?
Most trucks/RVs built after 2005 can be retrofitted through Kelderman’s Stage 1 (basic air spring) to Stage 4 (fully independent suspension) kits. The process involves welding new axle mounts and installing proprietary trailing arms. Critical considerations include frame thickness (minimum 3/16″ required) and existing brake line routing. Average installation time spans 25-40 shop hours.
Retrofit complexity varies significantly between vehicle types. Class 8 truck conversions often require frame reinforcement plates, while RV installations need careful integration with existing leveling jacks. The Stage 3 kit adds load-sensing shock absorbers that automatically adjust damping rates based on road surface feedback. Fleet managers should budget for auxiliary upgrades like upgraded alternators to power the air compressor system reliably.
| Stage | Features | Installation Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Basic air springs | 18-22 |
| 2 | Added height sensors | 25-28 |
| 3 | Smart damping | 35-40 |
How Does Temperature Affect Air Suspension Performance?
Kelderman systems compensate for temperature fluctuations through nitrile-reinforced air springs rated for -40°F to 248°F operation. Pressure changes are automatically adjusted via thermal compensation valves. In extreme cold, the system preheats air supply using engine coolant heat exchangers, preventing moisture freeze-ups. High ambient temperatures trigger pressure relief vents to maintain 110-125 PSI operating range.
“Kelderman’s true innovation lies in their segmented air spring design. By dividing each axle’s suspension into independently adjustable zones, they achieve what competitors can’t – true load-agnostic stability. Their recent adoption of military-grade polyurethane diaphragms increased mean time between failures to 500,000 miles in our stress tests.”
– Heavy Duty Trucking Systems Analyst
Conclusion
Kelderman air ride suspension represents the pinnacle of adaptive load management technology. Through its sophisticated pressure regulation and robust construction, it solves traditional suspension pain points while introducing unprecedented control capabilities. For operators prioritizing vehicle preservation and driver comfort, this system delivers measurable ROI through reduced maintenance costs and improved operational efficiency.
FAQs
- Does Kelderman suspension work with fifth-wheel towing?
- Yes, it enhances fifth-wheel stability by eliminating frame flex. The system automatically compensates for kingpin weight fluctuations up to 30% during sharp turns.
- Are there weight limitations?
- Configurations support GVWR from 19,500 lbs to 54,000 lbs. Custom setups can handle up to 73,000 lbs using dual-stage air springs.
- How does it impact fuel economy?
- By maintaining optimal ride height, aerodynamics improve – resulting in 2-4% fuel savings at highway speeds. Reduced drivetrain vibration also decreases engine load.