Air Hose & Steel Spun Air Hose

The air hose is the component that connects all the air springs to the valve manifold in your air suspension system. These hoses are usually made of plastic or PA (nylon), and depending on the hose size, they can vary in flexibility and handling. One advantage of 1/4" and 6mm hoses is that they are easy to work with - flexible and simple to route neatly. The 3/8" hose is stiffer and therefore a bit harder to install, while the 1/2" hose is quite thick and very rigid, which is why it’s rarely used anymore. 

Which Hose Size Should I Choose for My Air Suspension?

This is a very common question. For Air Lift control systems, you can choose between 1/4" or 3/8" air hoses. Other brands may also offer 6mm and 10mm options. Each hose diameter has its pros and cons. The 1/4" hose is softer and easier to route inside the car due to its flexibility. It also allows for slightly slower lift and drop speeds, making it easier to achieve precise height adjustment. The 3/8" hose, on the other hand, provides faster lift and drop speeds and is well-suited for heavier vehicles. Sales are roughly 50/50 between these two sizes, and we recommend choosing whichever best fits your build.

What Is the Purpose of the Steel-Braided Hose in Air Suspension Kits?

The steel-braided hose included in kits such as Air Lift Performance coilovers is designed to connect from the air spring in the wheel well to the chassis, where it meets the standard plastic hose using a PTC fitting. This setup provides a more durable hose in a highly exposed area that experiences frequent movement due to steering and suspension travel.