How Durable are the Air Lift 1000 Air Helper Springs for Coil Springs on a 2004 Toyota Sienna

Question:

I installed your Air Lift 1000 kit on my 2004 Toyota Sienna back in 2004. A few months ago my kids were complaining about feeling woozy riding in the car. This was a complaint I used to hear on long road trips way back in early 2000s which prompted me to install the Airlift system. It solved the issue. When I started hearing those complaints again I decided I needed to put more air in the bags as the kids got bigger. When I tried to inflate the bags the air gage read Zero despite pumping air into the schrader valve. I later crawled under the van and saw the bags cracked and peeling. After 18 years they failed due to the material being to old. There is a warranty but after 18 years I dont know if Ill find proof of purchase. So what is the expected lifespan of the air bags? Ive been told by others that I should ditch the bags and use better permanent solutions like progressive springs, etc. I am considering it. But as I have the van plumbed for the airbags already I think about replacing them with a new set. But of course I worry about the condition of the installed tubing at this point. Id hate to go through the trouble of putting in a new bag and the tubing is cracked and brittle. Then threading it through the bodywork again is a bother. Thanks for your advice.

asked by: Kev

Expert Reply:

The Air Lift 1000 Air Helper Springs for Coil Springs part # AL60732 are made of polyurethane which is both durable and long lasting. That said, they can start to break down after years of use but this can vary widely based on the environment therefore the manufacturer does not provide any sort of life expectancy. They are truly the best option for suspension enhancement as you can adjust them for the perfect mix between support and confront so I recommend replacing the old set with a new set and running new air lines.

The Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System part # TTORSEN04 is the other option available and these would be more durable but the ride can be very uncomfortable when installed so I don't recommend them for your application.

expert reply by: Conner L