Gear
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Outfitting a 4WD for touring or off-road adventures means accounting for extra weight.
Accessories like bar-work, drawers, roof racks and trailers add up quickly, making a suspension upgrade essential. The two main options are: heavier-duty springs, or standard springs paired with airbag helper kits. The choice depends on load patterns, towing needs, and terrain.
Understanding airbag suspension
Airbag helper kits adjust the effective spring rate to match changing loads. They aren’t full spring replacements and won’t improve off-road articulation, but they excel for towing and variable payloads.
Fitted over coils or leaf springs, airbags sit near the differential. At low pressure, they barely affect ride height or handling. Inflate them for heavy loads or trailers, and they maintain ride height, stabilise handling, and reduce stress on springs and shocks.
Pros
- Adjustable to match load or trailer weight
- Prevents rear sag and preserves suspension geometry
- Extends lifespan of shocks and springs
- Improves comfort under heavy or variable loads
Cons
- Must be used within GVM/GCM limits to avoid chassis damage
- Adds complexity and requires maintenance of bellows and airlines
- Slight restriction in suspension down-travel when inflated
Understanding spring suspension
Springs (coils or leaf packs) are standard on most 4WDs. They manage static weight, control ride quality, and provide off-road articulation. Stock springs handle the vehicle’s unladen weight plus some permanent accessories, but heavy gear or towing often requires upgrades.
Pros
- Maximum off-road flex and traction
- Simple, low-maintenance, and highly reliable
- Consistent ride quality when loads match spring rating
Cons
- Heavy-duty upgrades improve payload but make unladen rides stiffer
- Fixed rate cannot adjust for varying loads
Comparing springs and airbags
| Feature | Springs | Airbags |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | Consistent when correctly rated | Adjustable for loaded conditions |
| Off-Road | Maximum articulation | Only supplemental load support |
| Versatility | Limited with variable loads | Inflatable to suit different payloads |
| Towing | Only if rated for trailer weight | Ideal – levels ride and protects suspension |
| Cost | Economical and simple | Flexible: manual or onboard systems |
| Durability | Simple, long-lasting | Enhances load capacity but needs proper installation |
Which should you choose?
- Fixed loads and off-road focus: Heavier-duty springs offer reliability, off-road articulation, and minimal maintenance.
- Variable loads or regular towing: Airbag kits add flexibility, keeping the ride level and protecting suspension under changing weight conditions.
Why Superior Engineering?
Superior Engineering designs and fits suspension solutions for Australian conditions, from full GVM, GCM and BTC upgrades to coil conversions with integrated airbags. Every system is engineered for safety, performance, and long-term durability.
Bottom Line: Springs provide a strong, simple foundation. Airbags give adaptability for heavy or shifting loads. Choose based on your travel style, payload, and towing requirements – with Superior Engineering, you get a setup built for the real-world Aussie outback.
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