Granning's air orders
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• Graining has received over 25 firm orders for its Ford Transit rear air-suspension conversion, and a similar conversion on the Mercedes-Benz 307D panel van has also received a great deal of interest.
The electric compressorpowered suspension is similar • to that used by Grarming in the US on a larger Ford truck, although there are a few differences. The Transit conversion costs £1,200 (ex-VAT) but the price could lower if very large orders are received by the Cheshire-based firm.
Testing work on the conversion is being undertaken in the US and managing director, Derek Hopkinson, says there may be a few changes to the shape of the suspension swan-neck as a result. He expects to be able to offer the whole kit in around six weeks' time. Fitting takes around two days, and the conversion can be fitted to panel vans and chassis cabs alike.
The system replaces the Transit's standard leaf-springs with a steel swan-neck, attached to which are the air bags. The bags are charged with a US-made air compressor, which incorporates an air dryer. The air bags give a total suspension movement of around 230mm, and there is a raise/lower capability where the suspension will deflate to lower the vehicle by around half its normal travel, or 150ann from normal ride.
Hopkinson claims that most interest has come from the ambulance sector, but the vehicle recovery industry, and people carrying sensitive loads, have also made enquiries.
Granning also manufactures an air bag conversion for the Range Rover where all four springs are replaced with air bags at a cost of £1,400 (exVAT). The company claims the conversion improves the quality of the ride, and improves stability, and towing capability.