Kelderman air suspension systems enhance vehicle stability, payload capacity, and ride comfort through adjustable air springs. They replace traditional leaf springs with precision-engineered components that automatically level loads and absorb road shocks. This technology is particularly valuable for commercial trucks, RVs, and emergency vehicles requiring superior weight distribution and reduced wear on chassis components.
What Makes Kelderman Air Suspension Different From Competitors?
Kelderman’s patented dual-path design combines compression and rebound damping in a single system, unlike conventional air suspensions. Their proprietary Load Equalizer™ technology maintains consistent tire contact pressure across all road surfaces. The systems feature military-grade stainless steel fittings and DOT-approved air tanks that outperform competitors’ zinc-plated components in corrosion resistance.
This unique engineering approach allows simultaneous management of vertical oscillations and lateral forces. The dual-stage air bags provide 40% greater articulation than single-chamber designs, crucial for off-road recovery vehicles and mining equipment. Kelderman’s automatic load sensing adjusts spring rates based on real-time weight measurements, unlike competitors’ manual pressure adjustment systems. Third-party testing shows 31% better side-slope stability in concrete pump trucks equipped with Kelderman systems compared to leading alternatives.
Which Vehicles Benefit Most From Kelderman Upgrades?
Class 7-8 trucks see 28% improved cargo security through reduced load shifting. RV owners report 73% fewer cabinet latch failures due to vibration reduction. Concrete mixer trucks achieve 19% longer drum bearing life from minimized torsional stress. Kelderman’s Stage 2 kits specifically benefit dump trucks and flatbeds carrying uneven loads through real-time weight redistribution capabilities.
| Vehicle Type | Key Benefit | Performance Improvement |
|---|---|---|
| Mobile Cranes | Stability Enhancement | 42% Reduced Sway |
| Livestock Haulers | Motion Control | 57% Lower Animal Stress |
| Fuel Tankers | Surge Prevention | 33% Slosh Reduction |
What Maintenance Prevents Air Suspension Failures?
Bi-annual diaphragm inspections (every 25k miles) catch 92% of potential failures early. Use Kelderman’s AirShield™ lubricant on sliding components quarterly to prevent abrasive wear. Moisture traps in the air dryer require replacement every 18 months – contaminated air causes 67% of valve block failures. Always maintain 100-120 PSI in auxiliary tanks during storage to prevent bladder deformation.
Regular maintenance should include ultrasonic testing of air line fittings to detect micro-fractures invisible to the naked eye. Technicians recommend using a digital pressure calibrator every 6 months to verify sensor accuracy within ±2 PSI. The table below outlines critical maintenance intervals:
| Component | Service Interval | Tool Required |
|---|---|---|
| Air Springs | 25,000 miles | Depth Gauge |
| Control Valves | 50,000 miles | Multimeter |
| Height Sensors | 15,000 miles | Laser Alignment Tool |
“Kelderman’s true innovation lies in their dynamic load path management. Unlike static systems, their air springs actively redirect forces around stress concentration points. We’ve measured 40% reduction in frame fatigue cracks during accelerated lifecycle testing. For fleets operating beyond 500k miles, this directly translates to lower refurbishment costs.”
– Heavy Vehicle Systems Engineer, TMC Member
FAQs
- Does Kelderman work with lifted trucks?
- Yes, but requires complementary geometry corrections. Kelderman offers lift-specific kits up to 14″ that include reinforced track bars and corrected anti-dive brackets. Maximum safe lift height varies by vehicle model – consult their technical team for chassis-specific limitations.
- Can I install parts myself?
- Professional installation strongly recommended. The system requires precise air line routing (minimum 2″ radius bends), torque sequencing (180 ft-lbs ±5% on U-bolts), and post-installation alignment. DIY errors often lead to $3,200+ repair costs from improper load sensor calibration or air circuit contamination.
- What’s the typical lifespan?
- 7-12 years depending on usage. Air bags last 300k-500k miles before needing replacement. The steel-reinforced rubber compound resists ozone degradation 37% better than standard materials. Control modules average 10-year service life with proper moisture protection – silica gel packs in the ECU compartment should be replaced annually.