Air Ride Suspension Kit For 73 Continental

Okay, picture this: I'm cruising down the street in my buddy's '73 Continental. This thing is a beast, right? Land yacht doesn't even begin to cover it. But every bump felt like we were hitting a small earthquake. My teeth were practically chattering! We joked that we needed a chiropractor appointment after every drive. Then he started muttering about "air ride" and how it would "solve all our problems." I was skeptical, naturally. Anything that promises to solve all your problems is probably selling snake oil. But hey, I was intrigued. Turns out, he was talking about an air ride suspension kit.

So, what’s the deal with air ride suspension for a '73 Continental? Well, it's basically swapping out the traditional coil springs or leaf springs with air springs (think heavy-duty, adjustable balloons). An onboard air compressor and electronic control system allows you to adjust the ride height and firmness of the suspension with the push of a button. Sounds futuristic, right? Especially for a car that was designed when disco was king.

Why Bother? The Benefits of Air Ride

Let's break it down. Why would you even consider messing with the suspension on a classic like this? There are actually a few pretty compelling reasons:

Ride Comfort: This is the big one. Remember my earthquake experience? Air ride can completely transform the way your Continental handles bumps. It's like floating on a cloud. Seriously, you'll notice the difference immediately.

Adjustable Ride Height: Want to slam your Continental to the ground for that lowrider look? Go for it! Need to raise it up to clear a speed bump the size of Everest? No problem! (Okay, maybe not Everest, but you get the idea.) This is particularly useful if you live in an area with terrible roads – I'm looking at you, pothole enthusiasts!

Improved Handling: While a '73 Continental isn't exactly known for its cornering prowess, air ride can actually improve handling. By adjusting the air pressure in the springs, you can fine-tune the suspension to reduce body roll and improve stability. Don't expect to be tearing up the track, but you'll definitely notice a difference.

The "Wow" Factor: Let's be honest, air ride looks cool. There's something undeniably impressive about a car that can raise and lower itself at will. It's a guaranteed conversation starter at car shows (or even just at the gas station). People will be like, "Whoa, is that hydraulics?" And you can nonchalantly say, "Nah, just air ride."

Is It Right For Your Continental?

Okay, here's the million-dollar question. Should you install an air ride suspension kit on your '73 Continental? It's not a decision to be taken lightly. Here are a few things to consider:

Cost: Air ride kits aren't cheap. You're looking at a significant investment, both in the kit itself and in the labor to install it. (Unless you're a suspension wizard, in which case, kudos to you!) Shop around, compare prices, and be prepared to shell out some serious cash.

Installation: This isn't a weekend project for the faint of heart. Unless you have extensive experience with suspension work, it's best to leave the installation to a professional. You'll need to cut, weld, and run air lines, so precision is key. Messing it up could be… well, let's just say expensive.

Maintenance: Air ride systems require regular maintenance. You'll need to check the air lines for leaks, drain the water traps, and ensure the compressor is working properly. Neglecting maintenance can lead to system failure and a very bumpy ride (back to the earthquake, anyone?).

Originality: If you're a purist who believes in preserving the original condition of your classic car, air ride might not be for you. It's a pretty significant modification that deviates from the factory setup. However, if you're more interested in comfort, performance, and a custom look, then it's definitely worth considering.

Fitment: This is key! Not all air ride kits are created equal. Make sure you choose a kit that is specifically designed for a '73 Continental. Generic kits might require extensive modification and fabrication, which can be a headache (and more expensive).

Final Thoughts

Air ride suspension can be a game-changer for your '73 Continental. It can improve ride comfort, handling, and the overall look of your car. But it's also a significant investment that requires careful consideration. Do your research, weigh the pros and cons, and decide if it's the right choice for you. And hey, if you do decide to take the plunge, be sure to send me pictures! I'm always up for seeing a sweet ride with a killer suspension setup.

Just remember, even with air ride, you're still driving a '73 Continental. It's a big, heavy car. Don't expect it to handle like a Porsche. But you can expect a smoother ride and a lot more attention. And isn't that what it's all about?