Could trailer suspension modifications improve the ride quality of your MAC trailer? Road conditions in many areas across the U.S. can make traveling an uncomfortable experience. Fortunately, if you’re tired of feeling every bump in the road, the fleet trailer maintenance experts at Ainsworth know a few tricks to help you get a smoother ride, even on America’s less than stellar roadways.
Choose a Smaller, Lighter Rim & Tire Combination
MAC trailers look great with big rims and low profile tires. However, low profile tires can’t hold as much air, reducing cushioning on the road. The larger rims required for good looking low profile tires can also affect weight distribution, further worsening ride quality. For a smoother ride, look instead to lighter, more narrow truck tires, seeking out options less than 18 inches in diameter and 7 inches wide with a 60+ aspect ratio. Additionally, don’t forget to monitor tire air pressure, which directly impacts ride quality.
Add Air Springs
Air springs – also known as airbags – provide additional support for coil-over suspension systems. Made of durable rubber, they absorb energy from bumps in the road. They also offer added support for vehicle and cargo weight, preventing sagging and helping your MAC trailer stay level.
Upgrade Your Suspension
Your current suspension components were likely chosen for cost or performance rather than comfort. Upgrading to softer suspension components, which have been designed for comfort, is an easy way to achieve an immediate improvement in ride quality.
Lighten the Frame
Lightening your chassis, which works essentially like the skeleton of your tractor-trailer, holding and supporting it, can facilitate a smoother ride. Our trailer frame repair experts can recommend the best upgrade options for your vehicle, including carbon fiber, aluminum, and ceramic options that weigh less than factory steel components. Your new lightened chassis will have less weight to stabilize in transport, putting less pressure on the suspension, and allowing it to handle the impacts of uneven terrain more readily.
Looking for an upgrade but short on time? Our MAC trailer repair experts know if you’re not on the road, you’re not making money. That’s why we offer express service, completing semi-trailer repairs and upgrades in hours – not days – so you don’t have to settle for less than a stellar ride. Ensure more comfortable travels. Contact Ainsworth Trailer Repair Shop for a competitively priced upgrade quote today.
