Helper Springs vs Air Bags: What’s Best for Your Load Support?
Compare ride comfort, adjustability, cost, install time, and maintenance. Find the right setup for vans, SUVs, and light trucks like Ford Transit, RAM ProMaster, and Sprinter.
TL;DR: Daily driver with predictable loads → Helper Springs. Highly variable loads or need side-to-side leveling → Air Bags. Heavy duty all-round → consider Special Duty Kits(springs + shocks). Neither increases GVWR.
Helper Springs vs Air Bags — Side-by-Side
| Criteria | Helper Springs (MAD) | Air Bags |
|---|---|---|
| Adjustability | Fixed, load-progressive | Fully adjustable(PSI) |
| Empty-ride comfort | OEM-like(passive when empty) | Depends on PSI; can be plush when deflated |
| Under-load stability | Excellent; progressive rate reduces sway/bounce | Excellent; tune with PSI |
| Left-right leveling | No (vehicle-wide) | Yes(independent fill) |
| Install time | ~ 30–45 min/axle | ~1.5–3 hrs (lines + optional compressor) |
| Maintenance | Very low | Periodic leak/hose/compressor checks |
| Failure risk | Minimal (no air system) | Air leaks, line chafe, valve issues possible |
| Cold-weather behavior | Consistent | PSI/temp-sensitive |
| Upfront cost | Lower than air systems | Higher (kit + compressor optional) |
| Best for | Frequent, predictable loads; fit-and-forget | Highly variable loads; on-demand leveling |
Notes: Install times are typical. Neither solution increases GVWR or axle ratings. Always operate within OEM limits.
What should I choose?
Choose Helper Springs if…
- Your van/SUV/light truck is a daily driver with occasional payloads or towing.
- You want set-and-forget support and stock-like comfort when empty.
- You prefer quick install and near-zero maintenance.
Popular on Ford Transit (V363), RAM ProMaster/City, Mercedes Sprinter, and many crossovers.
Choose Air Bags if…
- Your loads vary a lot (weekend camper vs work week).
- You need left-right leveling(offset builds, shelving, wheelchair ramps).
- You want to tune ride height to tongue weight or payload.
Or Special Duty Kits
- Springs + tuned shocks for heavy vocational use or rough roads.
- Drive-specific options (FWD vs RWD/4WD), twin-rear-wheel compatibility.
- Balanced stability and durability for frequent loads.
Real-world Use Cases
Delivery van (Transit/ProMaster)
Predictable route weight most days? Helper springs keep the rear level and reduce sway with minimal upkeep.
Work van with uneven side load
Tools/shelving on one side? Air bags with independent fills let you level left/right quickly.
Family SUV towing a small camper
Helper springs control squat under tongue weight while keeping empty ride OEM-like.
Camper conversion with changing payload
Air bags+ onboard compressor = easy PSI tweaks as water/gear loads change.
Rough roads, heavy daily loads
Special Duty Kits add spring rate + damping control for durability and stability.
Install & Ownership
Helper Springs
- Rear-coil, bolt-in; ~30–45 min/axle.
- No lines, no compressor; very low maintenance.
Air Bags
- More components and routing; ~1.5–3 hrs.
- Periodic checks for leaks/hoses; compressor optional.
Safety
- Neither system increases GVWR or axle ratings.
- Stay within your vehicle’s published limits.
Ready to choose?
Prefer RAM ProMaster City or Mercedes Metris? ProMaster City · Metris
FAQs
Do helper springs or air bags increase my GVWR?
No. They improve load support and stability within the vehicle’s published limits, but do not increase GVWR or axle ratings.
Will helper springs lift my vehicle when empty?
No. MAD helper springs are passive when unladen and progressively engage as weight is added.
Can I level the left and right sides?
Helper springs act vehicle-wide and don’t level side-to-side. Air bags with independent fills allow left/right correction.
Can I combine helper springs and air bags?
It’s possible but seldom necessary. We recommend the simplest system that meets your load profile.
Do I need an alignment after installation?
Usually no for rear-only installs. If other suspension parts were replaced or you see uneven tire wear, get an alignment check.
What about EV vans (e.g., e-Transit)?
Some kits exclude EV variants. We verify year, drive, and axle details before recommending a kit.
