Choosing the Right Air Suspension System for Your 2020 Ford Transit 350 HD
An in-depth analysis of air bag suspension options for heavy-duty van applications
When it comes to enhancing the load-carrying capability of a 2020 Ford Transit 350 HD high top extended length van, air suspension systems (commonly referred to as air bags, load lifters, or air spring kits) offer a practical solution for owners who regularly haul heavy loads or tow trailers. These systems provide adjustable support to the vehicle’s rear suspension, helping to maintain proper ride height, improve stability, and reduce sagging under load. This comprehensive report examines the available options on the market, their features, installation considerations, and relative merits.
Understanding Air Suspension Systems for Heavy-Duty Vans
Before diving into specific products, it’s important to understand what these systems do. Air suspension kits typically consist of two air springs that mount between the vehicle’s frame and rear axle. These air bags can be inflated or deflated as needed to accommodate varying loads, effectively serving as adjustable helper springs that complement the factory leaf springs or coil springs.
The benefits of adding air suspension to a Transit 350 HD include:
- Prevention of rear-end sag when carrying heavy cargo
- Improved vehicle stability and reduced body roll when cornering
- Better towing control and reduced porpoising (up-and-down motion)
- Adjustable ride height and firmness to match varying load conditions
- Potential reduction in wear on factory suspension components
Top Air Suspension Options for the 2020 Ford Transit 350 HD
1. Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 Series
Manufacturer: Air Lift Company
Key Products:
- LoadLifter 5000 (Standard kit with manual inflation)
- LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate (Enhanced with internal jounce bumper)
- LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate Plus (Adds stainless steel roll plates)
As you mentioned in your query, Air Lift Company is a prominent player in this market. Their LoadLifter 5000 series is specifically engineered for the Ford Transit platform and offers up to 5,000 pounds of load-leveling capacity. The standard kit provides basic functionality, while the Ultimate version adds internal jounce bumpers for a smoother ride, and the Ultimate Plus incorporates stainless steel roll plates to reduce friction between the air spring and its mounting bracket.
Air Lift kits are known for their durability and comprehensive installation hardware. Their air springs are made from military-grade rubber for longevity, and the company offers a limited lifetime warranty on the air springs themselves.
@AirLiftCompany is recognized for their specialized focus on air suspension systems and typically includes detailed installation instructions with their kits.
2. Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs
Manufacturer: Firestone Industrial Products (a Bridgestone company)
Key Products:
- Ride-Rite Standard Kit
- Ride-Rite RED (with enhanced durability features)
Firestone’s Ride-Rite kits are another well-established option for the Transit 350 HD. Their standard kit offers up to 5,000 pounds of load-leveling support, similar to Air Lift’s offering. The Ride-Rite RED version features a proprietary air spring design with advanced corrosion resistance and increased durability.
Firestone draws on its extensive experience in the tire industry to engineer air springs that maintain their performance over time. Their air helper springs are designed to work with the Transit’s factory suspension rather than replace it, providing supplemental support when needed.
@FirestoneIP backs their products with a limited lifetime warranty on the air springs and a 2-year warranty on related hardware.
3. Hellwig Air Springs
Manufacturer: Hellwig Products Company
Key Products:
- Hellwig EZ Level Air Helper Springs
Hellwig’s EZ Level system is designed specifically for the Ford Transit platform and offers up to 5,000 pounds of load-leveling capacity. What sets Hellwig apart is their focus on easy installation and their heritage as a suspension specialist that began with helper springs before branching into air suspension.
Their air spring kits typically include all necessary mounting hardware and detailed instructions. Hellwig systems are designed with consideration for the Transit’s unique underslung rear suspension configuration.
@HellwigProducts offers a limited lifetime warranty on their air springs and is known for their California-based manufacturing of suspension components.
4. SuperSprings SumoSprings
Manufacturer: SuperSprings International
Key Products:
- SumoSprings Rebel (for rear suspension)
While not a traditional air bag system, SumoSprings offer an alternative approach worth considering. These “airless airbags” are made from a proprietary microcellular urethane that provides progressive load support without requiring air inflation. For Transit owners who prefer a maintenance-free solution that doesn’t require monitoring air pressure, this could be appealing.
The SumoSprings Rebel series designed for the Transit 350 HD provides up to 3,000-5,000 pounds of support (depending on the specific model) and operates passively, compressing under load and rebounding when weight is removed.
@SuperSpringsInt offers these as a “fit it and forget it” option with a lifetime warranty. The lack of air lines and compressors simplifies installation considerably.
Installation Considerations
DIY vs. Professional Installation
Most air suspension kits for the Transit are designed to be installable by experienced DIYers with common tools. The typical installation process involves:
- Safely lifting and supporting the vehicle
- Mounting the air springs between the frame and axle
- Running air lines to a convenient inflation point
- Testing the system for leaks and proper operation
However, professional installation may be preferred if you’re not comfortable working on your vehicle’s suspension system. Professional installation typically costs $200-$500 beyond the cost of the kit itself.
Air Control Systems
How you inflate and deflate the air springs is another important consideration:
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Manual Inflation: The most basic and affordable option involves manually adding or removing air using a standard air compressor or portable pump. Inflation valves are typically mounted in an accessible location.
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On-Board Air Systems: For greater convenience, manufacturers offer compressor systems that can be installed permanently in the vehicle:
- Air Lift offers their WirelessONE, WirelessAIR, and LoadController systems
- Firestone provides their Air Command systems
- Hellwig partners with companies like VIAIR for compressor integration
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Automatic Leveling Systems: The most advanced option includes sensors that automatically maintain your preset ride height regardless of load:
- Air Lift’s SmartAIR II system
- Firestone’s Automatic On-Board System
These systems add $300-$1,500 to the base kit cost but provide significant convenience for frequent load changes.
Comparative Analysis
| Manufacturer | Base Kit Price* | Warranty | Unique Features | Compressor Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air Lift | $300-400 | Limited Lifetime | Internal jounce bumpers in Ultimate models | Extensive range from basic to fully automatic |
| Firestone | $300-400 | Limited Lifetime | RED technology for enhanced durability | Multiple Air Command options |
| Hellwig | $300-400 | Limited Lifetime | Focus on easy installation | Partners with VIAIR |
| SuperSprings | $350-450 | Limited Lifetime | No air required, maintenance-free | N/A - Airless system |
*Prices are approximate and subject to change; installation costs not included
Real-World Considerations for Transit Owners
Transit 350 HD owners should consider several factors when choosing an air suspension system:
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Usage Pattern: If you frequently alternate between loaded and unloaded conditions, an on-board air compressor system offers significant convenience. If your load remains relatively constant, a manual system may suffice.
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Clearance Issues: The Transit’s unique underslung rear suspension design means careful attention must be paid to ground clearance, especially if you frequently drive on rough roads or access areas with limited clearance.
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Integration with Upfits: If your Transit has been upfitted with specialized equipment or conversions, verify compatibility with any new suspension components.
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Warranty Implications: Adding aftermarket suspension components will not void your vehicle’s entire warranty, but damage directly attributed to these modifications might not be covered under Ford’s factory warranty.
Conclusion
For 2020 Ford Transit 350 HD high top extended length van owners seeking to enhance load-carrying capability, several high-quality air suspension options exist beyond just the Air Lift LoadLifter series. Firestone, Hellwig, and SuperSprings all offer viable alternatives with different features that might better match specific needs.
When choosing a system, consider not just the initial cost but also the long-term convenience, maintenance requirements, and your specific loading patterns. For those who frequently change loads and desire maximum convenience, investing in an automatic leveling system with on-board air compressor capability may provide the best experience, albeit at a higher initial cost.
All the major manufacturers mentioned produce quality products specifically designed for the Transit platform, with similar weight ratings and warranty terms. The best choice ultimately depends on your specific usage requirements, installation preferences, and budget constraints.
#VanLife #FordTransitUpgrades #HeavyDutyVans
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