Rear Helper Springs for a 2008 Honda Odyssey with a Wheelchair Lift

Updated 04/11/2016 | Published 04/09/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System

(6110)

$269.36

Air Lift Load Controller II Compressor System for Air Helper Springs - Single Path

(52)

$239.22

Air Lift 1000 Air Helper Springs for Coil Springs - Rear

(1159)

$128.39

Question:

Hi, I have a 2008 Honda Odyssey that was modified by vision mobility for a power wheelchair. The wheelchair weighs about 350 lbs. I have installed spacers on the rear wheels and air springs 1000, which have to be refilled about every two days. I did the add ons because when we loaded the van to go on vacation, 6 adults, wheelchair and luggage, the van bottomed out and the rear tires rubbed. I am looking at the Timbren helper spring kit, 2000 lbs. load capacity. My question is, do you think I should just fix the air leak in my current air spring 1000 and add an onboard compressor, or replace the air springs with the Timbren helper springs? Either way I go Im going to replace the coil springs as well.

asked by: Andy

Expert Reply:

Since you already have an air bag system # AL60815 installed on the 2008 Honda Odyssey I would just fix the leak and add a compressor, # AL25592. The air bag system will allow you to tweak the ride quality whereas Timbren springs will just be engaged all the time and could cause a stiffer ride.

To find the leak you can use soapy water where the air lines and fittings come together. Bubbles indicate a leak. If you replace the coil springs and keep the air bags make sure that the new springs have the same dimensions as the old ones. Otherwise the air bags may not fit.

expert reply by: Michael H