If air suspensions don't appear completely tight after a repair, there can be trivial reasons. Defective spare parts are rare. But it is often enough if the specified tightening torques are not observed. The BILSTEIN Academy explains which points must be taken into account. As is so often the case, the pitfalls are in the details. Replacing air springs or air spring modules is not rocket science, nor is it a mystery. However, there is a small checklist for workshops to keep in mind so that no mistakes are made in the heat of the moment. It should be right at the top: Never lower an air-suspended vehicle to the ground with the lifting platform as long as the system is still depressurized. If this is not observed, air springs or air spring modules could be irreparably damaged. Expensive consequences, however, also threaten elsewhere.
Observe tightening torques
Incorrectly selected tightening torques are sufficient to cause leaks. "Particularly tricky are the connections between compressed air connections and residual pressure valves - RDHV for short," explains Rainer Popiol, head of the BILSTEIN Academy. But the correct tightening torques should also be meticulously observed for the remaining connections. There are no standard values, but between 2 and 5 Nm are common. A torque wrench with this setting range can therefore be found in the tool trolley before the start of the repair. The mechanic can find out the exact values from the vehicle manufacturer's documentation for each vehicle. Since the specifications can change at any time over time, for example due to technical modifications, it is essential to ensure that the data is up to date.
Key word: torque specifications
In order to avoid leaks, the vehicle manufacturers always give very specific torque specifications for all connections to air springs and air spring modules. These should never be undercut, otherwise connections could loosen - or they are not completely airtight. Overtightening can be just as dangerous, as this can damage seals. Even small leaks can cause expensive follow-up costs for air spring systems - even if you don't notice anything while driving. The compressor must constantly work against a gradual loss of pressure and thus wears out faster. By the way: replacements for defective original compressors are available through the BILSTEIN B1 program. Photo credit: ThyssenKrupp Bilstein GmbH
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