Understanding the wiring diagram for your air ride suspension system is crucial for a successful installation and operation. This guide provides a detailed walkthrough of the wiring process, ensuring your system functions correctly and safely.
Relay Wiring: Powering Your Compressors
The heart of your air ride system lies in the relays, responsible for supplying power to the compressors. Each compressor requires its own dedicated relay and a direct 10-gauge wire connection to the battery positive terminal. This ensures sufficient power delivery and prevents overloading. Attempting to power both compressors with a single 10-gauge wire is strongly discouraged.
Begin by connecting the 10-gauge red wire from the battery to pin 87 of the relay using the provided connector. Crimp the connection securely for a reliable power source. Pin 30 on the relay connects directly to the positive lead of your compressor. Repeat this process for the second relay, ensuring each compressor has its dedicated power supply.
To activate the relays, connect pin 86 on both relays. You can achieve this by using a short section of wire to link them together. Alternatively, run two separate wires from the pressure switch to each relay’s pin 86. This configuration allows the pressure switch to control both compressors simultaneously. Remember, each compressor MUST have its dedicated power wire running directly to the battery.
Pressure Switch Wiring: System Activation
The pressure switch acts as the brain of the system, turning the compressors on and off to maintain the desired air pressure. One side of the pressure switch connects to the relays (as discussed above). The other side requires a connection to a keyed power source – a circuit that’s only live when the vehicle’s ignition is on. This prevents the compressors from running continuously and draining your battery.
Use the supplied blue or grey wire and a red female quick disconnect to connect to the remaining pressure switch terminal. Now, locate a suitable keyed power source in your vehicle. Consult your vehicle’s wiring schematics for accurate information.
Identifying Keyed Power Sources
Common keyed power sources can be found in various vehicle accessories. Tapping into these circuits using the provided red T-tap connector ensures the air ride system operates only when the ignition is on. Examples of potential sources include:
- Radio: The radio’s power wire is typically active only when the key is in the “on” position.
- Amplifier: If your vehicle has an amplifier, its power wire can serve as a keyed power source.
- USB Power Outlet: Many modern vehicles have USB outlets that are powered only when the ignition is on.
- Cigarette Lighter: Similar to the USB outlet, the cigarette lighter is often a keyed power source.
- Daytime Running Lights: The power wire for daytime running lights can be utilized.
- Trailer Lights: If your vehicle has a trailer hitch, the trailer light wiring may offer a keyed power source.
- Heated Seats: Vehicles equipped with heated seats often have a keyed power source for this feature.
- Sunroof: The sunroof’s power wire can also be a potential source.
- Power Windows: The power window circuit can provide a reliable keyed power source.
Conclusion: Ensuring a Safe and Functional System
Proper wiring is essential for the safe and reliable operation of your air ride suspension system. Following this guide and consulting your vehicle’s specific wiring diagram will help ensure a successful installation. Always double-check your connections and use appropriate wiring techniques for a long-lasting and dependable air ride setup. Remember, understanding the “Air Ride Suspension Wiring Diagram” is key to a successful air ride installation.
