Last Updated on March 19, 2023
Firestone Coil Rite and Air Lift 1000 are two essential suspension kits to improve your vehicle’s suspension performance. These air helper springs are designed to provide better support and stability when carrying heavy loads or navigating off-road terrain.
But how do they stack up against each other? Both products offer similar benefits but vary in load capacity, air pressure requirements, compatibility, suitable applications and lifespan.
The Firestone Coil Rite has low air pressure requirements with better ride quality & comfort, while Air Lift 1000 offers high load leveling capacity with a longer lifespan at a lower cost.
Here, we’ll guide you through the characteristics of two distinct suspension options to help inform your decision-making process. Let’s dig into all the details and uncover what makes each solution unique.
Firestone Coil Rite vs Air Lift 1000: Know Their Main Differences
Firestone Coil-Rite and Air Lift 1000 represent two air suspension enhancement products that offer unique benefits. With one offering improved ride quality, increased load capacity, or enhanced performance capabilities while the other provides distinct advantages tailored to meet individual needs.
1. Load Leveling Capacity:
The Firestone Coil-Rite Kit can handle anywhere from 500 to 1,000 lbs per set. The kit is specifically designed for use with smaller or mid-size vehicles like SUVs or pickup trucks. However, it can also be used with larger vehicles if needed.
On the other hand, Air Lift 1000 has been optimized for larger trucks and SUVs due to its broader load range of up to 2,100 lbs per set. This gives users more flexibility when deciding which product to use depending on their specific needs.
2. Air Pressure Requirements:
Due to its compact size, Firestone Coil-Rite Kit is designed with a minimum air pressure requirement of 5 PSI, while the maximum is 35 PSI when installed properly.
Meanwhile, Air Lift 1000 requires a minimum air pressure of 5-50 psi. But 10 psi is recommended by experts for optimal performance. This means that the Firestone air helper springs can be inflated with a standard tire pump, while the Air Lift springs require an air compressor.
3. Installation Process:
The installation process for both products is fairly straightforward, with minimal tools required (e.g., screwdriver). The Firestone Ride Rite kit consists of air springs that must be mounted inside an existing coil spring suspension.
Conversely, the Air Lift 1000 utilizes an integrated manifold system that allows multiple air springs to be connected in tandem via one connection point. Therefore, the Air Lift 1000 is slightly more complex as it requires some drilling and involves mounting inside coil springs in order to eliminate sag and bottoming out.
Both systems usually take around 1-2 hours or less to complete the installation process.
4. Compatibility:
Both the Firestone Coil Rite and Air Lift 1000 air spring kits are suitable for use on vehicles with coil springs but not with leaf springs. If you have a vehicle with leaf springs, you will need to purchase a separate air spring kit designed for leaf spring suspensions.
5. Suitable Applications:
The Firestone Coil-Rite Kit is best suited for light-to-medium duty applications such as pick-ups (front), P-30 Motorhome (front), SUVs, and cars. It is not recommended for heavy-duty applications due to its lack of weight capability.
On the other hand, the Air Lift 1000 works well for daily driving. It provides better handling stability but is also unsuitable for heavy-duty driving due to its limited weight capacity.
6. Ride Quality & Comfort:
Both product types can potentially improve ride quality while reducing sagging during load bearing activities such as hauling or pulling trailers/boats etc. But the Firestone kit provides a smoother ride due to its larger diameter springs.
These leveling kits allow you to adjust the air pressure to achieve your desired ride quality, but the Firestone kit offers more flexibility in this regard thanks to its adjustable upper and lower mounting brackets.
They must be properly installed in order to do so effectively. Incorrect installation or overinflation can reduce ride quality/comfort levels. So it is important that all steps are followed precisely during installation processes as outlined in user manuals provided by each manufacturer respectively.
7. Lifespan and Maintenance:
The Firestone Coil Rite Kit offers a long-lasting solution with over 1/2 million cycle life tests. The Air Lift 1000 air helper spring kit is also durable, with a lifespan of up to 5 years or 100,000 miles with proper maintenance.
However, both kits need regular maintenance to ensure that they perform optimally for the duration of their respective lifespans. The type of maintenance required may vary between both kits, so consult the manufacturer’s instructions for more details.
8. Cost:
The Air Lift 1000 is one of the most cost effective suspension solutions available, costing around $150 compared to $300 for a Firestone Coil Rite Kit. Therefore, it can be an attractive option for those on a tighter budget who still want quality performance from their suspension system.
Firestone Coil Rite vs. Air Lift 1000: Which One Should You Choose?
Air bag suspension kits have become increasingly popular, and Firestone Coil Rite Air Helper Springs and Air Lift 1000 Coil Spring Kits are two of the most sought-after on the market. Each solution has different benefits to meet the varied needs of vehicle owners.
Firestone offers a simpler installation process, better air ride quality and comfort, better compatibility, and lower air pressure requirements. Air Lift 1000 is designed for heavy load-leveling capacity as well as easier maintenance and affordability.
Ultimately, deciding between the two models will depend on individual preferences. Nonetheless, both are reliable choices for bolstering your vehicle’s suspended system for improved handling regardless of driving conditions.
Are Air Lift Bags Good?
Air lift bags are an ideal way to upgrade your vehicle for maximum performance and safety when hauling heavy cargo or towing a trailer. They can provide excellent support, better handling, comfort, and control, all while offering a smoother, safer ride.
They do not change the weight rating of your vehicle as long as you do not exceed it. This is why it is essential to never inflate the bags beyond what your car can safely handle. Installing air lift bags on your vehicle can be the difference between an enjoyable journey with peace of mind or debilitating road woes.
How Long Do Air Lift Air Bags Last?
Air Lift airbags typically last up to 100,000 miles if they are properly installed and maintained. However, the longevity of an air bag may vary depending on usage and terrain, as well as maintenance practices.
To extend its life span, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installing and maintaining your air lift bag.
What PSI Should You Run in Your Air Bags When Not Towing?
Air bag suspension kits are vital for towing, but maintaining the correct pressure setting is essential for optimal performance and safety. Generally, 5 psi is recommended for airbag maintenance; however, it can be increased up to 10 psi if necessary.
To ensure that you are using the correct psI while driving, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or speak to an experienced technician. Having the right amount of air pressure in your air bag kits when not towing can enhance your fuel economy and reduce stress on components while improving safety.
Get the Perfect Vehicle Lifting and Leveling Performance
The Air Lift 1000 and Firestone Coil Rite are both excellent choices for vehicle lifting and leveling needs. However, depending on your particular situation, one may be better suited than the other.
Weighing up factors such as cost, installation process, air ride comfort, and quality as well as maintenance requirements, will help you determine which of these two products is right for you. Ultimately whichever option you go with will provide reliable air lift performance that will enhance your overall driving experience.
