When 4x4s aren’t prowling some unpaved goodness, they are often found doing work stuff, like towing a trailer or carrying a heavy load. While the majority of 4WDs can tow and haul, not all do it well. This is where RoadActive Suspension (RAS) comes in. RAS is the only leaf-spring suspension upgrade that converts “passive” leaf-spring suspension to mechanical “active” suspension. What does that mean exactly, and what are the benefits? Read on.

RoadActive Suspension reduces rear squat by up to 3-4 inches.

Benefits Of RAS

Rear squat is reduced by up to 3-4 inches and RAS decreases excessive bounce when towing and hauling. Furthermore, the system doesn’t compromise ride quality. And it doesn’t require readjustments or maintenance. But that’s not all. RAS helps to improve the safety and control of your vehicle by reducing sway and body roll whether you’re towing and hauling or not. Additionally, it helps to decrease axlewrap and wheel hop issues. You get the benefits of a helper spring, sway bar, and traction bar at fraction of the cost. That’s a lot of benefits. But how does RAS work?

How RAS Works

RAS is the sole rear leaf-spring suspension upgrade capable of transforming conventional passive leaf-spring suspension into mechanical active suspension. The system enhances the rear leaf springs by absorbing and dispersing the energy of load force. This enhancement leads to markedly enhanced load and road handling capabilities while maintaining ride quality. Each RAS kit comprises two robust coil tension springs. These springs bolster and aid the rear leaf springs by maintaining their original bowed configuration. When the leaf springs experience downward strain due to a load or vehicle weight shift, the RAS springs promptly engage, absorbing the force exerted by the load. As the strain increases, the springs exert greater counter assistance force, effectively stabilizing the vehicle. Additionally, RAS greatly reduces body sway and roll when cornering by supporting the weight shift that takes place.

Easy Installation

The RAS system arrives fully assembled, accompanied by straightforward instructions. Installation is simple, typically requiring less than an hour using standard shop tools. For ease of install a two post auto lift is recommended, though RAS can be installed on the ground using a trolley jack and jack stands. No drilling, cutting, or welding is required. Once installed, the system does not require readjustments.

If your rig has a factory top overload spring, it will need to be removed. Replacing the overload spring with RAS will provide a slight improvement in strength compared to stock. Other benefits include immediate engagement, reduced excessive rebound, improved stability, and better overall ride quality.

RAS Works With Most Lifted Trucks

RAS can offer significant benefits to lifted trucks. It can greatly reduce squat when towing, significantly improve stability, control excessive bounce, and rein in axle wrap/wheel hop. It’s important to note that RAS system specs are derived from stock vehicles, devoid of any aftermarket suspension alterations. But in terms of fitment, RAS typically accommodates lifted trucks seamlessly. Potential issues may arise if the lift block has an irregular shape that obstructs the RAS axle connecting brackets, or if a complete suspension swap has been performed. Prior to ordering an RAS for your lifted or leveled truck, inspect your suspension for any possible complications as outlined. If you have questions, contact RAS.

And on the topic of suspension lift, it’s worth noting that RAS typically raises the rear unloaded ride height by 1/2 to 1.5 inches. The exact amount will depend on the vehicle, condition of the leaf springs, the RAS part number, and the tension set on the RAS spring during initial install.

RAS Enhances Handling When Towing And Hauling

RAS is engineered to significantly enhance a truck’s handling when towing or carrying heavy loads. However, it’s important to note that it does not increase the payload or towing capacity of a pickup truck. The payload and towing capacity is determined by the manufacturer and hinges on several factors. These include the vehicle’s weight, including its frame, body, engine, fuel, passengers, and cargo. This capacity remains unchanged by the addition of aftermarket suspension components like RAS. RAS is also not intended for trucks that surpass these ratings, and adherence to manufacturer weight ratings is imperative.

RAS can bolster suspension strength by up to 50 percent and aid in distributing the payload’s weight more evenly across the truck’s suspension. This redistribution can enhance the truck’s handling and stability while driving with a heavy load. Additionally, it can mitigate rear end sagging when carrying heavy loads.

The RoadActive Suspension system can offer significant benefits to lifted trucks. It can greatly reduce squat when towing, significantly improve stability, control excessive bounce, and rein in axle wrap/wheel hop.

Applications

RAS is available for a wide range of pickup trucks and SUVs from a variety of manufacturers. For a complete list of available systems visit the RoadActive Suspension website. And check out the video below, which provides an overview of RAS.