Ever notice that a vehicle carrying a heavy load often sits lower in the rear? In some cases, when trucks are carrying a really heavy load, the rear of a truck may even sit so low that the rear tires rub against the truck bed. Obviously, not an ideal situation.
The engineers at Ram solved this issue with their Active-Level™ Four-Corner Air Suspension system. This engineering feat keeps the truck body level while under heavy payloads.
How it’s done
The “level” of the vehicle is measured by sensors located on the frame. When they sense that the truck body isn’t horizontal, compressed air is fed to adjustable air springs mounted at the four corners of the truck. Controlled by a special computer, the truck body is constantly adjusted to maintain a horizontal profile. This is not only a comfort feature but a safety issue as it delivers a proper headlamp-to-road angle for consistently even forward illumination.
Five Modes
Our technical sources at DeLand Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram informed us that the Ram Active-Level™ Four-Corner Air Suspension system offers five modes:
GETTING AROUND TOWN – Normal Mode is the most comfortable balance of ride and handling for everyday driving.
TAKING TO THE TRAILS – Off-Road 2 mode provides impressive ground clearance for the path and trail and generous angles for approach and departure. The difference from normal is +2.0 inches.
OFF THE BEATEN PATH – Enjoy outstanding ride balance with Off-Road 1 mode, with an extra degree of clearance when off-road scenarios are less severe than those that warrant Off-Road 2 mode. The difference from normal is +1.2 inches front and +0.9 inches rear.
HIGHWAY DRIVING – At highway speeds, Aero Mode automatically lowers the vehicle, reducing aerodynamic drag and “body roll,” and measurably improving fuel efficiency. The difference from normal is -0.6 inches.
DAILY INS AND OUTS – For convenience and comfort, Entry/Exit Mode automatically lowers the truck, making it easier to get in and out of, load your bed or hook up your trailer. This mode is manually controlled by the internal button bank or remotely with the key fob. The difference from normal is -2.1 inches front and -1.7 inches rear.
