Hellwig
Hellwig Sway Bars, Helper Springs, Load Control and Anti-Sway Products
Hellwig Products was founded in 1946 after World War II and has remained family owned and operated to this day, manufacturing all of its steel products in California’s Central Valley. In an era when many companies have moved production of their products overseas, Hellwig has remained steadfast in its commitment to produce its products in America. Thanks to Hellwig’s commitment to quality manufacturing and research and development it also produces sway bars and other suspension components for companies that are looking for the very best. Hellwig has also helped to grow and develop the automotive aftermarket as a founding member of SEMA, having attended the first ever SEMA show in Los Angeles in the basement of Dodger Stadium.
Rudy Hellwig first came up with his idea for the Hellwig Helper Spring after seeing cars and trucks with heavy loads sagging under the extra weight. This led to unsafe changes in the handling and likely caused a lot of accidents. Rudy manufactured his Helper Springs at night in his shop and would sell and install them in a customer’s driveway with the help of his son Don. Hellwig Products has remained a family business ever since its founding in 1946. Don’s son Mark joined the company in the 1960s and currently serves as CEO. Melanie Hellwig White came to the business after gaining experience in other industries and now holds the title of president. Melanie is proud to be the fourth generation Hellwig working in the family business.
Throughout the years, Hellwig Products has developed innovative suspension systems that help vehicles handle loads and control sway. The product portfolio primarily includes anti-sway bars for aftermarket and OEM applications. Offering private label manufacturing, proprietary manufacturing, and specialty engineering services, Hellwig consistently develops unique and innovative products and services for its customers. Over the years, Hellwig has designed the most popular (and imitated) load assist products ever introduced in the light truck aftermarket, including the Load Pro 25 Series. Accesspeed is proud to offer Hellwig products to our customers. With our lowest price match guarantee, you will always find the best combination of price and selection at Accesspeed.
Suspension & Chassis » Air Bags & Air Suspension Products
Air Suspension, Air Bags and Compressors
What is air suspension?
Air suspension is a style of vehicle suspension that incorporates an electric compressor that pumps air into flexible bellows (air bags) to a pressure that allows your vehicle to behave like it has springs. There are two basic types of air suspension. The first, which is most popular, is an air bag kit that does not include shocks, struts or integrated coil-overs. The second is an coil-over system with air bags integrated onto the top of the struts/shocks.
How does air suspension work?
Air suspension relies on air bags that essentially work like balloons that create a suspended barrier between your frame and suspension components. The adjustability makes this type of suspension popular.
Is air suspension good for daily driving?
Yes. In fact, many late model vehicles incorporate air suspension systems from the factory, as it can greatly improve the ride of the vehicle and driver comfort.
How long do air suspension bags last?
While each manufacturer has different specs and claims based on usage, Accesspeed customers have run their air bags up to 12 years. Most of the replacements we have seen have occurred from 85,000-130,000 miles. Keep in mind, some people only use their bags when hauling or towing, while others use theirs 24/7 in daily drivers.
Should I put air bags on my vehicle to increase payload and towing capacity?
NO! Adding air bags will NOT increase your payload or towing capacity. No aftermarket air suspension system on the market allows higher payloads or towing capacities. Your vehicle is rated at the factory, and specifications for payload, tow capacity and GCWR are set at a specific manufacturer-rated capacity.
Do airbags make it ride smoother?
This answer depends on your settings. Using airbags will allow you some degree of customization. For example, lower air pressure will be a softer, smoother ride. Increasing air pressure will give you better road feel and steering input, but with a stiffer ride.