Boss Airbags vs Heavy Duty Springs – Which is Better for Towing?

G'day mates! If you're reading this, you're probably one of the many Aussies who've hooked up their trailer, caravan, or boat, only to realise that the old ute isn’t handling the extra weight as gracefully as it could. No worries, though! Today, we're taking a deep dive into a question many of us have pondered: When it comes to towing, are Boss Airbags better, or should you stick with heavy-duty springs?

Before we get into the nuts and bolts of it all, it's essential to understand what each suspension upgrade offers and how they can impact your driving experience. So, grab a cuppa, and let's get into it!

Understanding Heavy-Duty Springs

Heavy-duty springs are essentially stronger versions of the factory-installed springs in your vehicle. They're designed to handle extra weight, making them a popular choice for towing and carrying heavy loads. By providing additional stiffness, they help maintain the vehicle’s ride height and improve stability when under load.

While they are a straightforward solution, heavy-duty springs aren’t without their downsides. The increased stiffness can lead to a harsher ride when your vehicle is unladen, and continuous stress can lead to premature wear of other suspension components and the chassis itself. If your vehicle spends a lot of time without a heavy load, you may find the ride uncomfortable over time.

Why Consider Boss Airbags?

On the flip side, we have Boss Airbags. These are not full replacements for your suspension system but work alongside it to provide a dynamic solution for load bearing. The beauty of airbags is their adjustability. You can inflate or deflate them to suit your needs, making them perfect for those who regularly switch between towing and regular driving.

Notably, airbags provide enhanced ride comfort, promoting even tire wear and reducing sway. They’re a great choice if you require flexibility and adjustability in your suspension system, allowing you to cater your vehicle's feel and performance to the current load.

If you want more insights on whether Boss Airbags replace suspension or just complement it, check out this article on our site.

Installation and Maintenance

Installing heavy-duty springs generally requires some mechanical know-how, but thankfully, it’s not rocket science. Once they're in, maintenance is minimal because springs are sturdy fellows. However, you don’t get any real adjustability with this setup.

Boss Airbags, while offering superior adaptability, do come with their requirements. You’ll need to install them, which involves more components than springs alone. But fear not, if you’re a bit handy, it can be a satisfying afternoon project. We’ve put together a handy step-by-step installation guide here to walk you through the process.

What's Under the Hood at Boss Air Suspension?

Load Assist Kit for Mazda BT50 2012-09/20 Ford Ranger 2012-7/22 | up to 2 inch lift

When it comes to Boss Airbags, we’ve got a range of Load Assist Kits designed for various makes and models, ensuring a perfect fit for your vehicle. Whether you drive a Mazda BT50 or a Mitsubishi Triton, we’ve got you covered with specially tailored kits:

For a complete range of kits tailored to several other models, make sure to browse our Load Assist Kits collection.

Performance on the Road

With heavy-duty springs, you gain consistent load support, which is fantastic for carrying loads large enough to make your vehicle a little unsteady. Yet, the compromise in comfort during regular use is something to consider.

Boss Airbags, meanwhile, allow for unparalleled flexibility. Imagine tackling a sandy beach, with your airbag-equipped vehicle gliding smoothly over the terrain. By adjusting the air pressure, you can keep that baby riding smooth, regardless of what you’re towing or carrying.

And for those who like a bit of tech under the bonnet, adding a compressor such as the Boss PX06 Compressor can make adjustments even easier. It lets you control air pressure on the fly, right from the driver's seat.

Cost Considerations

While heavy-duty springs might come across as the budget-friendly option initially, flexibility often wins over a rigid setup in the longer run. With Boss Airbags, you’re making an investment in versatility and comfort. The initial cost of airbags might be higher, but when considering their benefits and the ability to tailor your suspension to your load, many find them worth every cent.

So, Which One Should You Go For?

If you’re only occasionally towing or carrying loads and prioritise comfort and flexibility, Boss Airbags are likely your best bet. However, if your rig is perpetually loaded, heavy-duty springs could serve you well.

In the end, it boils down to personal preference and your specific needs. Both options are solid, but only you can decide which fits your lifestyle better.

If you're still unsure and want to explore more options, head to Boss Air Suspension for a closer look at our offerings. Chat with our team, and they'll be more than happy to set you on the right track.

Remember, the right setup can make your daily drives as smooth as a Sunday arvo cruise down the Great Ocean Road!


Hope this was helpful, mates. Until next time, drive safe and happy towing!

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