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Conversion Kits Aftermarket conversion kits for the older cars with air ride suspensions have become a hot item in recent years because the kits provide a repair solution for vehicles that might otherwise be too expensive to fix. read more... |
Performance Possibilities A whole new generation of younger vehicle owners are spending serious money these days customizing sport compact cars. The hot nameplates are Honda, Accord and Mitsubishi, but you'll also see Chevy Cavaliers, Ford Focuses and other nameplates among their ranks. read more... |
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Air Ride Basics Understanding the operating logic of an air ride suspension system is important when trying to make a diagnosis because all of these systems are different. If you don't understand the logic, you can't always tell if the system is functioning correctly or not. read more... |
Lincoln Logic On the older Lincoln systems, the control module monitors ride height for up to an hour after the ignition is turned off, venting pressure as needed to maintain correct ride height. During this time it will lower, but not raise the vehicle. read more... |
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Air Ride Problems Air suspension problems fall into one of three categories: Electrical, Electronic and Air Supply. One of the leading causes of compressor failure is air leaks (usually in the air springs or lines). read more... |
General Service Precautions The first thing to keep in mind when servicing vehicles with electronic air suspensions is to watch out for those that are self-leveling - especially if the vehicle is going to be raised on a lift to change the tires or work on the brakes. read more... |
Lincoln Logic
On the older Lincoln systems, the control module monitors ride height for up to an hour after the ignition is turned off, venting pressure as needed to maintain correct ride height. During this time it will lower, but not raise the vehicle. At the end of the hour, the compressor will kick in for up to 30 seconds to add air if ride height is low. After that, it shuts down and makes no further corrections until the ignition is turned back on.
When the ignition is turned on, the system will raise ride height if necessary, but not lower it. After 45 seconds, it will then make lowering corrections as needed, but only if all the doors are closed. It will not make any corrections if the brake pedal is depressed. Once the system is in its "driving" mode, it averages input from the height sensors before making any adjustments in attitude. This prevents the suspension from trying to compensate for every bump in the road. Only when a continuous high or low indication is present for more than 45 seconds will it react and make a change.
If a change in ride height isn't accomplished within three minutes after the need is indicated, the system warning lamp comes on and stays on as long as the ignition remains on. When the key is turned off, the warning lamp will go out and remain out unless the same problem is indicated the next time the key is on.
