Suspension Control ( Automatic - Electronic ): Description and Operation

The rear air suspension, is an air operated, microprocessor controlled suspension system which replaces the conventional suspension. This system allows low spring rates for improved ride and automatic rear load leveling.

Two air springs replace the conventional steel springs and support the vehicle load at the rear wheels. The air springs are mounted on the axle spring seats and to the frame upper spring seats.

The system is operational when the ignition is in the RUN position and is limited for one hour after the ignition has been turned to the OFF position. The air suspension switch, located on the right side of the luggage compartment, must be in the OFF position when the vehicle is on a hoist, being towed or jump started.

The "Check Suspension" warning lamp is located in the instrument panel message center, to the right of the speedometer. The warning lamp flashes five times and then stays on when the service switch is turned to the OFF position or there is a system malfunction.

The rear leveling system operates by adding or removing air in the springs to maintain the level of the vehicle at a predetermined rear suspension "D" ride height dimension and is controlled by a microcomputer module.

The rear air suspension system module also controls the Electronic Variable Orifice (EVO) steering.

The air required for the leveling is distributed from the air compressor to the air springs by a nylon air line which runs from the compressor dryer through a "Y" fitting to each individual air spring.