The 30-Second Cheat Sheet Start here
- Variable payload (work van/cargo):
Helper springs
add progressive support without harsh empty ride.
- Constant heavy load (camper/RV conversion):
Reinforced coils
up front or rear helper springs
to restore ride height.
- Need to level/adjust height often:
Air suspension
is adjustable but costs more and needs more care.
- Max stability with long overhang/tall build:
consider a MAD Special Duty Kit
or helper springs + premium dampers.
What are Helper Springs?
Helper springs (e.g., MAD helper springs) are progressive add-on springs that engage under load.
Pros
- Restores ride height under load
and reduces sag.
- Noticeably better stability
in crosswinds, towing, or tall conversions.
- Empty ride stays close to stock
thanks to the progressive rate.
- Install
typically 30–75 minutes per axle; TÜV-approved kits available.
Best for
- Sprinter/ProMaster/Transit with changing
payload (courier, service).
- Campers that just
sag or sway a bit under trip load.
Some kits call for a minimum load
to be fully effective—always check the kit specs.
What is Air Suspension?
Air suspension (add-on air bags or full air replacement) uses air springs with valves/compressor for adjustable
ride height and spring rate.
Pros
- Adjustable:
level the van, fine-tune left/right.
- Comfort can be tuned.
Cons
- Higher upfront and install cost.
- More maintenance(lines/valves/compressor).
- Overkill if you only need extra support under load.
Best for
- Campers with uneven side-to-side weight (kitchen/slide-out).
- Frequent height tuning or specific loading/towing scenarios.
What are Reinforced Coil Springs?
Stronger (or longer) replacement coils that take the place of your OEM coil—often on the front axle(common on FWD or coil-strut fronts).
Pros
- Durable, set-and-forget
mechanical solution; no air or electronics.
- Restores static ride height
with constant load (camper interior, bull bar, winch).
Cons
- Stiffer at all times, including empty (less variable than helper springs).
- No on-the-fly height adjustment.
Best for
- Constant
heavy front axle load (camper buildout, equipment).
- ProMaster FWD
and Transit
that sit nose-low.
Comparison Table
| Attribute |
Helper Springs |
Air Suspension |
Reinforced Coils |
| How it works |
Progressive add-on, engages under load |
Air bags with valves/compressor |
Fixed higher spring rate (replacement coils) |
| Empty ride |
✔️ Nearly stock |
✔️ Tunable |
◼︎ Stiffer |
| Loaded ride height |
✔️ Clearly improved |
✔️ Adjustable |
✔️ Structurally higher |
| Variable payload |
✔️ Excellent |
✔️ Excellent |
◼︎ Less ideal |
| Maintenance |
Low |
Medium/High |
Low |
| Cost |
$$ |
$$$–$$$$ |
$$ |
| Install time |
~30–75 min/axle (typical) |
Longer/more complex |
Moderate |
| Best use case |
Cargo/work vans & mild camper sag |
Leveling & side-to-side tuning |
Constant heavy load (front) |
Indicative only; exact results depend on vehicle and kit.
Decision Matrix
- Empty comfort matters but you sag when loaded:
choose helper springs
(rear).
- Camper is always heavy; front sits low:
choose reinforced coils
(front).
- Need to level frequently or fix side-to-side bias:
choose air suspension.
- Max stability with tall builds/overhang:
helper springs + quality dampers
, or Special Duty
where available.
How to Measure Ride Height (≈5 minutes)
- Park on level ground; set correct tire pressure.
- Measure hub center to fender lip(front/rear, left/right).
- Record values both empty
and loaded(typical trip/work load).
- Compare to baseline/experience: >15–25 mm(≈0.6–1.0 in) drop = noticeable; >30–40 mm(≈1.2–1.6 in) = upgrade will help.
- Pick your solution (see matrix) and confirm kit specifics
for your axle/drive/SRW-DRW.
FAQs
Do helper springs change anything when the van is empty?
Barely; they’re progressive and mainly engage under load.
Can I combine helper springs with better shock absorbers?
Yes—often the best recipe for stability and comfort under load.
When should I pick air suspension instead of helper springs?
If you regularly adjust height or need left/right correction for uneven builds.
Any inspection or approval concerns?
Most MAD helper springs are TÜV-approved; check the kit details for your vehicle and follow local regulations.
What if my camper is always heavy?
Choose reinforced coils (front) and/or helper springs (rear). Add air if you want fine tuning.
