Installation of air suspension to Fiat Ducato after 2006 with electric parking brake

A guide for owners of motorhomes and panel vans

Over the years, the Fiat Ducato has established itself as one of the most popular base vehicles for RVs. Whether panel vans, Class-A, Class-B, Class-C or RVs with overcab bed - the Ducato enjoys an excellent reputation in the motorhome world.
However, the Fiat Ducato not only impresses as a leisure vehicle, but also as a reliable commercial vehicle. Logistics companies such as DPD, UPS, Yodel and FedEx as well as numerous small businesses and private individuals rely on its versatility and resilience.

Why retrofit an air suspension system?

Although the Fiat Ducato is delivered with a maximum authorised mass rating of up to 3,500 kg, in practice many vehicles are loaded to the limit or even beyond. For vehicles that are regularly subjected to heavy loads, it makes sense to reinforce the suspension, not only for reasons of comfort, but also for reasons of safety.
Installing an air suspension system is the best way to prepare the vehicle for permanent loads. The installation ensures a stable ride and reduces wear and tear on the existing suspension.

Technical requirements and issues

The purchase of additional suspension often raises technical questions. One of these is whether the vehicle has a manual or electric parking brake. This information is crucial for the positioning of the air suspension controller.

Function and design of the air suspension

At the heart of the lift kit system are two air bellows mounted between the rear axle and the vehicle frame. The air bags are connected to a compressor and controllers by pneumatic hoses. These components make it easy to adjust the air pressure to match the vehicle's height and suspension to the load.
The type of parking brake - manual or electric - does not affect the function of the air springs themselves, but does affect the positioning of the control unit.

Electric parking brake influence

In cars with a manual parking brake, there is a small storage compartment to the left of the steering wheel, which is often used to store the air lift kit control unit. In cars with an electric parking brake, however, this space is used for the brake control button. This requires alternative solutions for positioning the control unit.
This also may be different in cars with right-side steering wheels.

Control panel placement options

1. Vehicle specified controllers:
• Control panels, especially for the Fiat Ducato with a manual parking brake, are often semi-teardrop shaped and are designed to fit into the storage compartment next to the steering wheel.
• Some manufacturers offer alternatives on the right-hand side of the steering wheel for models with electric parking brakes.
2. Universal control panels:
• These rectangular panels can be flexibly mounted in various locations, including the driver console.
3. Modern operating systems:
• Systems with Bluetooth control, such as those from LEMET, allow the air suspension to be controlled from a wireless remote. This eliminates the need for fixed integration in the cockpit.
• LEMET also offers compact control units with a digital display. These models do not require vehicle specific brackets and can be mounted anywhere.

Benefits of air suspension

• Driving comfort:
  Reduced chassis movement and provides a comfortable, stable ride, even with heavy loads.
• Safety:
  Increased stability, especially when cornering and braking, thanks to optimised suspension.
• Flexibility:
  Ability to adjust vehicle height to suit load or special requirements (e.g. Boarding the ferry).

Conclusion

Installing air suspension on the Fiat Ducato 250, regardless of the type of parking brake, is a sensible investment that significantly improves comfort, safety and flexibility.

Whether you opt for dedicated or universal solutions, the careful selection of a suitable system is crucial. Modern, Bluetooth-based control systems offer additional advantages as they make operation easier and more convenient.

If you are looking for a suitable air suspension system, X-CAMPING is the right place for you. Here you will find complete air suspension systems for all Fiat Ducato models, as well as for many other vehicles - both leisure and commercial. Discover our wide range and benefit from our expert advice and top quality products.