Recommended Suspension Enhancement Kits for 2001 Suburban 2500 with AutoRide Leveling System

Question:

I have a 01 suburban 2500 with autoride , I would like to add the airbags but dont know if I can use them with the autoride system or could I disable the autoride when using the bags while towing? I have these on my 2010 Silverado and love them !

asked by: Rocky H

Helpful Expert Reply:

The AutoRide self-leveling and damping suspension system in your 2001 Suburban 2500 uses various sensors in the vehicle to control a compressor pump that continuously varies shock damping while driving. This system cannot be defeated and aftermarket air springs like the Firestone Ride-Rite cannot be installed on the vehicle according to my contact at Firestone.

However, you can install a set of rubber jounce spring such as the Timbren front-axle kit # TGMFK25S and rear-axle kit # TGMRSB4S. These kits are compatible with both 2WD and 4WD versions.

Rubber jounce springs like these Timbrens replace your factory axle bump stops and provide progressive resistance when there is a load on the suspension. When unloaded they will have no effect on the ride but as soon as they engage the axle from the weight of a substantial cargo load they will provide additional load support and stiffen the suspension.

This is not exactly the same function that is provided by the AutoRide system, which is primarily intended to level the vehicle, but it is indeed compatible with it; this was confirmed with the technical team at Timbren. The linked article and video will give you additional information on Timbren kits.

expert reply by: Adam R