ATS Springs Suspension Parts: A Complete Guide for Upgrading Your Ride

When it comes to upgrading your vehicle's suspension, ATS springs and suspension parts are a popular choice among off-road enthusiasts and daily drivers alike. Known for their durability, ride quality, and precise engineering, ATS components can transform how your truck or SUV handles both on and off the pavement. This guide covers everything you need to know about ATS springs and suspension parts, from understanding what sets them apart to selecting the right setup for your vehicle.

What Are ATS Springs and Suspension Parts?

ATS is a manufacturer specializing in aftermarket coil springs, leaf springs, and related suspension components. The brand is best known for its spring-over-strut (SOS) lift systems and leveling kits, which replace factory springs to provide increased ground clearance, load support, and improved articulation. Unlike generic springs, ATS parts are typically designed for specific vehicle makes and models, ensuring a bolt-on fit without major modification.

Types of ATS Springs

ATS Coil Springs: These are the most common ATS suspension parts, used in the front and rear strut assemblies. They come in various spring rates and lift heights, allowing for custom ride characteristics. For example, a 2-inch front leveling spring can raise the nose of a truck to match the rear, while heavier-rate springs can support additional weight from bumpers, winches, or gear.

ATS Leaf Springs: For vehicles with solid rear axles (like many trucks and SUVs), ATS offers replacement leaf spring packs. These often include multiple leaves for progressive spring rates, improving ride comfort and load capacity over factory leaf springs.

ATS Add-a-Leaf (AAL): A simpler upgrade that adds one or more leaves to your existing leaf spring pack. This increases load capacity and reduces sag, especially useful for towing or hauling.

Why Choose ATS Over Other Brands?

Several factors make ATS springs stand out:

• Application-Specific Design: ATS engineers each spring for a specific vehicle, considering weight, suspension geometry, and intended use. This results in a more predictable ride and better clearance.
• Material Quality: ATS uses high-grade spring steel, often shot-peened and powder-coated for corrosion resistance. This reduces the risk of sagging over time.
• Ride Quality: Many users report that ATS springs maintain a comfortable on-road ride while providing off-road capability. The progressive spring rates in many kits help absorb small bumps yet stiffen up under heavy load.
• Bolt-On Installation: Most ATS springs are direct replacements for factory springs, requiring simple hand tools and basic mechanical skill. No cutting or welding is needed.

How to Choose the Right ATS Springs and Suspension Parts

Selecting the correct ATS components depends on your vehicle, driving needs, and budget. Here are key considerations:

Determine Your Goals

• Leveling: If you want to eliminate the factory rake (rear higher than front), a front leveling spring set is ideal. Typical lift heights range from 1.5 to 2.5 inches for most trucks and SUVs.
• Lift: For larger tires and greater ground clearance, full suspension lift springs (3 to 6 inches) are available, often sold as complete kit with strut spacers or longer shocks.
• Load Support: If you carry heavy loads frequently, opt for heavier spring rates. ATS often lists the weight capacity per spring set, so match that to your typical payload.

Check Vehicle Compatibility

ATS parts are model-specific. Before purchasing, verify the year, make, and model of your vehicle. For example, ATS springs for a 2010-2018 Ford F-150 are different from those for a 2019-2024 Ram 1500. Also note any trim level differences (e.g., with or without factory air suspension).

Understand Spring Rate and Lift Height

Spring rate (measured in pounds per inch) determines how much the spring compresses under load. Lighter rates provide a softer ride but may sag under heavy loads; heavier rates reduce sag but can be harsh when unloaded. ATS offers multiple options for many vehicles, so choose based on your typical usage.

Lift height is the amount the vehicle’s ride height increases. Going too high without addressing other components (shocks, control arms, brake lines) can cause poor handling and premature wear. ATS generally recommends staying within 2-3 inches for leveling and up to 6 inches for full lift kits, often with required supporting modifications.

Consider Matching Components

While buying just springs is possible, many ATS kits include upgraded shocks to match the new ride height and spring rate. Shocks provide damping to control spring oscillation, so a mismatched shock can lead to a bouncy or harsh ride. ATS often pairs its springs with high-quality shocks (e.g., from Bilstein or Fox), but you can also buy springs separately and use your own shocks if they have sufficient travel.

Installation Tips for ATS Suspension Parts

Installing ATS springs is a straightforward job for DIYers with basic tools, but safety is paramount. Here’s a general overview:

1. Safety First: Always use jack stands and never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Wear eye protection when compressing springs.
2. Compress Coil Springs: For strut assemblies, you will need a spring compressor. Follow the tool instructions carefully to avoid injury.
3. Disconnect Required Components: You may need to remove tie rods, sway bar links, or brake line brackets to gain clearance. Refer to a service manual for your specific vehicle.
4. Torque to Spec: Use a torque wrench to tighten all fasteners to manufacturer specifications. Loose components can cause noise or failure.
5. Alignment Required: After changing ride height, a professional alignment is necessary to ensure proper steering geometry and tire wear.

If you are not comfortable with suspension work, a professional shop can complete the installation in a few hours. Labor cost varies but often ranges from $200 to $500 for a typical spring swap.

Common Questions About ATS Springs

Will ATS springs void my factory warranty? Replacement suspension parts do not automatically void the entire warranty. However, if a failure is caused by the modification, the dealer may deny a related claim. Keep your original parts and consider a service agreement that covers modified vehicles.

Can I use ATS springs with my factory shocks? In many cases, yes, if the shock has enough travel to accommodate the new ride height. However, factory shocks often have limited travel and may bottom out or top out prematurely. Upgrading shocks is recommended for best performance.

How long do ATS springs last? With proper care, ATS springs can outlast your vehicle. The high-quality steel and coating resist corrosion and fatigue. Many users report no sagging after years of use, even under moderate loads.

Practical Recommendation

For most truck and SUV owners, an ATS leveling spring kit offers the best balance of cost, ease of installation, and performance. It improves stance, allows for slightly larger tires, and does not drastically affect ride quality. If you tow frequently or carry heavy loads, step up to a heavier-rate spring or add-a-leaf kit. For serious off-roading, consider a full suspension lift with matching shocks and any necessary geometry correction brackets.

Before purchasing, confirm fitment with a reputable dealer or directly from ATS. Look for kits that include all necessary hardware and instructions. Remember that suspension modifications change vehicle dynamics, so drive cautiously after installation and have your alignment checked. With the right ATS springs and suspension parts, you can enjoy a more capable and better-looking vehicle without compromising day-to-day comfort.