Rubber coil spring boosters

Types of rubber coil spring boosters

Rubber coil spring boosters are inserted into the spring of a vehicle to increase the spring rate and load capacity. Once installed, the vehicle can carry more weight without compromising safety or comfort. The boosters also help prevent sagging springs and improve handling. They come in a variety of types, including:

• Standard booster's

  The standard rubber coil spring booster is the most common type. It is designed to fit inside the coil spring and is usually conical or tapered. The booster gets wider toward the bottom. It is made of durable rubber material. Standard boosters are available in different sizes and weight capacities.

• Adjustable boosters

  Adjustable rubber coil spring boosters feature a two-part design. The booster is installed between the coils of the spring. It can be adjusted to increase or decrease spring tension. When the vehicle carries a heavy load, the tension is increased to prevent sagging. On the other hand, tension can be reduced when driving a lighter vehicle.

• Stackable boosters

  Stackable coil spring boosters come in sets. Each set contains two, three, or four individual booster blocks. The blocks have a square or rectangular shape. They are made of polyurethane material. The boosters are installed inside the coil spring. A single block increases spring stiffness by a specific amount. Multiple blocks increase stiffness further. Spring booster blocks can be removed easily. This makes them suitable for vehicles with removable springs.

• Inflatable spring boosters

  Inflatable rubber coil spring boosters are sometimes referred to as air bags. They are installed inside the coil spring. The inflatable booster has a bladder filled with air. The bladder can be inflated with a pump. When inflated, the booster fills the gap between the coil spring and the vehicle chassis. Inflatable boosters increase spring rate and load capacity. They also improve ride quality. When driving on rough terrain, the bladder can be deflated to provide a softer ride.

Specifications and maintenance of rubber coil spring boosters

Rubber coil spring boosters are available in different specifications. Here are some of them:

• Size

  Rubber coil spring boosters come in various sizes. The boosters are available in measurements of 3 inches up to 6 inches. Notably, the size of the spring booster will determine the level of lift that the user will experience. A larger booster will provide more lift.

• Material

  The coil spring boosters are made from different materials. The most common material is rubber. Rubber is a durable material that can withstand heavy loads. Besides rubber, the coil spring boosters can also be made from polyurethane. Polyurethane is a more advanced material compared to rubber.

• Load capacity

  Each rubber coil spring booster has a load capacity. The load capacity is the amount of weight the booster can handle without damage. The load capacity for these boosters ranges from 500 pounds up to 1500 pounds. It is important to choose a booster with a load capacity that suits the needs of the vehicle.

• Type

  There are different types of rubber coil spring boosters. The boosters differ in design and functionality. For instance, spring air bags are one of the most common types of rubber coil spring boosters. The spring airbags help to increase the load capacity of a vehicle's suspension. They also improve ride quality.

Maintaining rubber coil spring boosters is important. Proper maintenance ensures that the boosters last longer and function as expected. Here are some maintenance tips:

• Regularly inspect the coil spring boosters for signs of wear or damage.
• Users should clean the coil spring boosters to remove dirt and debris.
• Ensure that the boosters are correctly installed. Improper installation can lead to damage.
• Replace the rubber coil spring booster if it is worn out or damaged.
• Check the load capacity of the booster and avoid exceeding it.

How to choose rubber coil spring boosters

When choosing a rubber coil spring booster, consider the following:

• Vehicle Type and Specifications

  When selecting rubber coil spring boosters, it's crucial to consider the vehicle type and specifications. The vehicle's make, model, and year of production affect the spring dimensions and fitment requirements. Different vehicles have varying load capacities and handling characteristics, so the booster should be compatible with the coil springs and suspension system. Additionally, the vehicle type indicates whether it is a sedan, SUV, truck, or commercial vehicle, which influences the booster selection for optimal performance and stability.

• Load Capacity and Purpose

  Consider the load capacity and purpose of the rubber coil spring boosters. Determine the primary use of the vehicle, such as daily commuting, towing, hauling cargo, or off-road adventures. This information helps select a booster that meets specific needs. For instance, if the vehicle frequently tows heavy loads, a booster with a higher load capacity is necessary to enhance spring support, maintain proper ride height, and improve overall stability.

• Spring Dimensions and Compatibility

  Spring dimensions and compatibility are vital aspects when choosing rubber coil spring boosters. Examine the coil spring diameter, number of spring turns, and booster fitment requirements. The booster should precisely match the coil springs to avoid compatibility issues, premature wear, and ineffective load support. Additionally, consider the booster type, whether it's a full-length or insert-style booster, ensuring it aligns with the vehicle's suspension system design.

• Quality and Durability

  Quality and durability are significant factors when choosing rubber coil spring boosters. Select products from reputable manufacturers that use high-quality materials to enhance longevity and performance. The booster endures road conditions, loads, and various environmental factors, so it should be made from durable materials like heavy-duty rubber or reinforced compounds. Furthermore, reading customer reviews and expert opinions provides insight into the booster quality, durability, and performance in real-world scenarios.

• Ease of Installation

  Consider the ease of installing the rubber coil spring boosters. Some boosters require complex installation processes, while others offer simple, user-friendly designs. If the installation is performed at home or the vehicle owner prefers DIY approaches, choose boosters that come with detailed instructions and require minimal tools. Additionally, consider the availability of professional installation services and the associated costs.

• Price and Warranty

  Price is a crucial factor when choosing rubber coil spring boosters. Set a budget and compare options within the range. However, avoid settling for the cheapest boosters, as they may lack quality and durability. Additionally, consider the warranty offered by manufacturers or suppliers. A suitable warranty indicates confidence in the product's quality and provides financial protection against defects or issues arising after purchase.

How to DIY and Replace Rubber Coil Spring Boosters

Replacing rubber coil spring boosters is a DIY-friendly task that can be accomplished with basic tools and mechanical knowledge. Before starting, it is essential to have the right coil spring booster size for the vehicle. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to replace rubber coil spring boosters:

Tools Needed:

• Jack and jack stands
• Lug wrench
• Socket set
• Coil spring compressor (if required)
• Safety glasses

Step-by-Step Guide:

• 1. Prepare the Vehicle

  Park the vehicle on a flat surface and engage the parking brake. Loosen the lug nuts on the wheels, then use the jack to lift the vehicle and secure it on jack stands. Remove the wheels.

• 2. Release the Suspension Tension

  Depending on the vehicle's suspension design, it may be necessary to release the tension on the suspension components. This can be done by removing the bolts that connect the lower control arm to the chassis or the upper strut mount bolts.

• 3. Remove the Existing Coil Spring

  If a coil spring compressor is required, follow the manufacturer's instructions to compress the coil spring safely. Once compressed, remove the bolts holding the spring to the suspension and carefully remove the spring.

• 4. Install the Rubber Coil Spring Booster

  Position the rubber coil spring booster inside the coil spring. Ensure it fits snugly and evenly distributes the load. Reinstall the coil spring onto the suspension and tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's torque specifications.

• 5. Reassemble the Suspension and Wheels

  Reconnect any suspension components disconnected in Step 2. Replace the wheels and lower the vehicle off the jack stands. Tighten the lug nuts to secure the wheels properly.

Q and A

Q1: Can rubber coil spring boosters be installed on trucks?

A1: Yes, rubber coil spring boosters can be installed on trucks. Nonetheless, it is important to select the right size and type of booster appropriate for the truck's specifications and load-carrying requirements.

Q2: Do rubber coil spring boosters work on independent front suspensions?

A2: While rubber coil spring boosters are primarily designed for use with traditional solid axle suspensions, they can also be used on vehicles with independent front suspension (IFS). However, the fitment and effectiveness may vary, so it is crucial to check compatibility.

Q3: Do spring boosters affect ride quality?

A3: Spring boosters can affect ride quality. They are intended to increase spring stiffness and load capacity, which may result in a firmer ride. This can be beneficial in load-carrying situations but might make the vehicle less comfortable when driving unloaded.