Frontier Truck Parts Air Trac Suspension: A Complete Guide

Frontier Truck Parts offers a range of suspension upgrades, and their Air Trac Suspension system stands out for drivers who need improved ride quality, load-leveling capability, and durability. This guide covers what the Air Trac suspension is, how it performs, and what you should consider before purchasing.

What Is the Frontier Truck Parts Air Trac Suspension?

The Air Trac Suspension by Frontier Truck Parts is an add-on air suspension system designed for pickup trucks and vans. It replaces or supplements the factory leaf springs with an air-assisted setup that allows the driver to adjust ride height and stiffness based on load. Unlike full air-ride conversions, Air Trac retains the leaf springs for structural support but adds an airbag between the axle and frame. This design provides extra load capacity, reduces sway, and smooths out rough roads.

Key components include heavy-duty air springs, mounting brackets, an onboard air compressor (optional), and height control valves. The system can be installed on most late-model trucks, including Ford, Chevy, Ram, and GMC models.

Benefits of Upgrading to Air Trac Suspension

Improved Ride Comfort

Factory leaf springs can be harsh, especially when the truck is unloaded. The Air Trac airbags help isolate the chassis from road vibrations, resulting in a noticeably smoother ride. You can adjust the air pressure to match the load: lower pressure for unloaded driving, higher pressure when hauling a heavy trailer or payload.

Auto-Leveling Capability

One of the standout features of the Air Trac system is its self-leveling option. With the addition of height control valves, the system automatically maintains the truck’s ride height regardless of load. This is particularly useful for trucks used for towing or carrying constant heavy loads, as it prevents sagging and keeps headlights aimed correctly.

Increased Load Support

Air Trac can increase the rear load capacity of your truck by up to 3,000 pounds, depending on the kit and vehicle. The airbags provide extra support, reducing the stress on the leaf springs and preventing bottoming out. This makes the system ideal for fifth-wheel towing, slide-in campers, or commercial hauling.

Improved Stability

By reducing body roll and sway, the air suspension enhances handling, especially when cornering or in crosswinds. The airbags act as anti-sway bars, keeping the truck more level during turns. This added stability translates to a safer, more confident driving experience.

How Does Air Trac Compare to Other Suspension Options?

vs. Standard Leaf Springs

Standard leaf springs are simple and durable, but they offer limited adjustability. Ride quality is often compromised when unladen, and they sag under heavy loads. Air Trac provides on-the-fly adjustability and better ride comfort across different payloads.

vs. Full Air Ride Suspension

Full air ride systems replace leaf springs entirely with airbags, offering maximum ride comfort and adjustability. However, they are more expensive, complex to install, and require more maintenance. Air Trac strikes a middle ground: it keeps the leaf springs for strength and redundancy while adding air assist for comfort and load leveling. It’s a cost-effective upgrade that doesn’t require a complete suspension overhaul.

vs. Helper Springs (e.g., Timbren, SumoSprings)

Helper springs are passive rubber or steel devices that engage under load. They improve load capacity but don’t offer adjustability and can make the ride harsher when unloaded. Air Trac is adjustable, so you can dial in the perfect pressure for every trip.

Installation Considerations

Professional installation is recommended unless you have advanced mechanical skills. The typical installation involves:

• Removing the rear wheels and supporting the truck with jack stands.
• Attaching the airbag brackets to the axle and frame.
• Routing the air lines to a manifold or compressor.
• Wiring the compressor (if included) to the battery.

The process takes about 4–6 hours for a skilled mechanic. Frontier provides detailed instructions, but the tight spaces on some truck frames can be challenging. If you add the auto-leveling kit, expect additional time.

Maintenance Tips

Air Trac suspension requires minimal maintenance. Check airbag clearance periodically to ensure they aren’t rubbing against anything. Inspect air lines for leaks or abrasion. Lubricate the height control valve linkage annually. Drain the air tank (if equipped) to prevent moisture buildup. Follow Frontier’s recommended pressure limits; overinflating can damage the airbags.

Choosing the Right Kit

Frontier offers Air Trac kits for many truck models. When selecting, consider:

• Vehicle compatibility: Verify the kit is designed for your year, make, and model.
• Load requirements: Estimate the maximum weight you’ll carry and choose a kit with sufficient capacity.
• Compressor option: Manual inflation using a Schrader valve is simpler and cheaper; an onboard compressor allows adjusting pressure from the cab.
• Auto-leveling: Worth the extra cost if you carry varying loads frequently.

Final Recommendation

The Frontier Truck Parts Air Trac Suspension is a smart upgrade for truck owners who regularly haul moderate to heavy loads and want to improve ride quality without the complexity and expense of a full air ride system. It delivers noticeable benefits in comfort, load support, and stability. For those who tow often or carry slide-in campers, the auto-leveling option is highly recommended. Choose a kit that matches your vehicle and anticipate professional installation unless you’re experienced. With proper maintenance, the system will provide years of reliable service.