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The classic Plymouth De Luxe Kingsway from 1946 to 1950 represents an iconic piece of American automotive history. These vintage vehicles came equipped with traditional leaf spring suspension systems that, while adequate for their era, often struggle to meet modern comfort and performance expectations. Many enthusiasts today consider upgrading to an air suspension kit to transform their driving experience while preserving the vehicle’s classic aesthetic appeal.
Owners of these vintage Plymouth models face unique challenges when maintaining original suspension components. Parts availability becomes increasingly scarce, and replacement costs for authentic components continue to rise. The original suspension design, though reliable for its time, provides a notoriously harsh ride quality that modern drivers find uncomfortable during extended journeys or daily commuting situations.
Understanding Plymouth De Luxe suspension challenges
The original suspension system in 1946-1950 Plymouth De Luxe models utilized a conventional leaf spring setup with rigid axles front and rear. This configuration delivered adequate load-carrying capacity but compromised significantly on ride comfort and handling precision. The leaf springs tend to sag over decades of use, creating uneven ride height and poor weight distribution across the vehicle’s chassis.
NewsBMW’s new off-road 4×4 to rival G-Class and Land Cruiser by 2028Modern replacement leaf springs often fail to match original specifications exactly, leading to handling characteristics that differ from factory intentions. Additionally, finding quality shock absorbers compatible with the original mounting points presents ongoing difficulties for restoration enthusiasts. The rigid axle design inherently limits suspension travel and creates harsh impacts when encountering road irregularities or surface imperfections.
Weather conditions particularly affect aging suspension components in these vintage Plymouth models. Cold temperatures make rubber bushings brittle and prone to cracking, while heat cycles cause metal components to expand and contract repeatedly. This thermal cycling accelerates wear patterns and reduces overall system longevity compared to modern automotive standards.
| Suspension Type | Ride Comfort | Adjustability | Maintenance Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Original Leaf Springs | Poor | None | High |
| Air Suspension Kit | Excellent | Full | Moderate |
Air suspension benefits for classic Plymouth models
Installing a complete air suspension kit transforms the driving dynamics of vintage Plymouth De Luxe vehicles dramatically. The adjustable nature of air springs allows owners to fine-tune ride height, stiffness, and overall handling characteristics to match personal preferences or specific driving conditions. This flexibility proves particularly valuable for vehicles used in varying scenarios, from car shows to highway cruising.
Air suspension systems provide superior load-leveling capabilities compared to traditional leaf springs. When carrying passengers or cargo, the system automatically adjusts to maintain proper ride height and weight distribution. This load-leveling feature prevents rear-end sagging and maintains optimal headlight aim, improving both safety and vehicle appearance during operation.
NewsMercedes’ new M252 engine made in China : efficiency at what cost ?The improved ride quality offered by air suspension significantly enhances passenger comfort during extended drives. Unlike rigid leaf springs that transmit road impacts directly to the chassis, air springs absorb irregularities smoothly and progressively. This results in reduced fatigue for both driver and passengers, making long-distance travel more enjoyable in these classic automobiles.
For restoration purposes, choosing the right custom airbag suspension kit ensures optimal compatibility with vintage Plymouth chassis designs. Modern air suspension technology offers reliability improvements over original equipment while maintaining the vehicle’s authentic exterior appearance. The system’s adjustability also allows for precise stance adjustments during car show preparation.
Cost analysis and installation considerations
The financial investment required for a quality air suspension kit ranges significantly based on component quality and installation complexity. Professional installation typically costs between $2,500 and $4,500 for complete systems, including all necessary brackets, lines, and control components. However, this investment must be weighed against ongoing costs of maintaining aging leaf spring systems and their associated components.
DIY installation presents an attractive option for mechanically inclined owners, potentially reducing total project costs by 40-50%. The installation process requires basic automotive tools and moderate mechanical experience, though some custom fabrication may be necessary for proper mounting bracket installation. Most reputable kit manufacturers provide detailed instructions and technical support throughout the installation process.
News$24,300, about the size of an MG ZS but better in every way — this SUV offers a stronger engine, superior handling, an ECO label, and 15.2 cubic feet of cargo spaceLong-term maintenance costs for air suspension systems generally prove lower than maintaining original leaf spring setups. Modern air springs typically last 80,000-100,000 miles under normal operating conditions, while electronic components carry extensive warranty coverage. Replacement parts remain readily available through manufacturer networks, unlike increasingly scarce original Plymouth suspension components.
Several factors influence overall project costs, including :
- Kit quality level – Basic versus premium component selections
- Installation complexity – Professional versus DIY approaches
- Additional modifications required for optimal fit and function
- Electrical system upgrades needed for control integration
Comparing alternatives and making the decision
Before committing to air suspension, Plymouth owners should evaluate alternative upgrade paths available for their vehicles. Comprehensive comparison of air vs hydraulic suspension kits reveals important distinctions between these two popular upgrade options. Hydraulic systems offer certain advantages in specific applications, though air suspension generally provides superior adjustability and reliability characteristics.
Other manufacturers’ experiences provide valuable insights for Plymouth owners considering suspension upgrades. Installing air suspension on Honda vehicles demonstrates similar benefits, while Jeep Wrangler air suspension installations show how modern systems adapt to different vehicle architectures. Even Ford Expedition leveling kits illustrate how suspension modifications enhance vehicle functionality across various applications.
NewsToyota GR86 Outroad : the off-road sports car dream from JapanThe decision ultimately depends on individual priorities, budget constraints, and intended vehicle usage patterns. Owners seeking maximum comfort and adjustability will find air suspension delivers exceptional value despite higher initial investment costs. Those prioritizing originality or operating under strict budget limitations might consider refurbishing original suspension components instead.
For most Plymouth De Luxe Kingsway owners, a complete air suspension kit represents a worthwhile investment that dramatically improves driving experience while preserving the vehicle’s classic character. The combination of enhanced comfort, adjustability, and long-term reliability makes this upgrade particularly attractive for vehicles used regularly rather than stored as static display pieces.
