OK, I just spoke to one of our techs who is very familiar with our lowering module, and got answers to a few of these questions. Although he wasn't familiar with any particular brand of lowering links, he said that in the past he had to diagnose a vehicle with lowering links that was having air-ride issues.

The problem with the links is that they essentially trick the air-ride system into thinking it's at a different height. The reason they ride harsh is because they force the vehicle to ride at a height that is beyond what the air-bags are capable of. Basically, you need to have some air in the bags, otherwise it's like riding on rubber bump-stops. The lowering module lowers the vehicle to what we have found to be an acceptable level without causing any harm to the existing hardware (airbags). He also said that because the links are mechanical, it can be tricky to adjust each corner so that the level is even. The module adjusts each corner in unison.

The other good thing about the lowering module is that with the flip of a switch, it can be bypassed, restoring factory settings. If there's ever a need to diagnose problems with the air-ride, you can simply turn off the module, and your dealer can then accurately figure out what your problem may be. Many dealers won't diagnose air-ride problems once they see links installed because the system won't be able to pull proper diagnostic readings. They'll simply blame the problem on the links.

Overall, will the links work? Yes. Will they ride more harsh? That's a subjective thing. Some people can tolerate the harsh ride, others can't. Sure, our module may not offer the most extreme lowering, but it offers what we've found to be a good balance between lowering, and maintaining comfort and function of the system. Just always keep in mind. The car will only go so low. Once the bags are completely deflated, that's it, you can't go lower. But at that point, you're basically riding on a fixed suspension.

 

Thanks for the input. I do see advantages to the modules, just trying to understand one key factor.

If the ride height is determined by the amount of air in the bags, why would the ride quality be different for the *same* amount of lowering from mechanical or electronic means?

I understand if the links are set too low, but what about the same amount a the electronic module?

 

I can't speak specifically for the links because I'm not sure what height height settings they can accommodate. I'm also not sure how the mechanical adjustment translates to lowering.

I know that before we determined lowering levels with our module, we conducted tests to see how much each level of lowering translated to pressure in the airbags, and consequently to ride quality.

To answer your last question, the difference is that our electronic module won't let you set it too low. It has a maximum "drop" amount, which is what we determined to be a safe level of lowering.

 

Thanks Tom.

 

Use your brains people... 20mm reduction done via "tricking" it mechanically vs. "tricking" it electronically does not matter. Air is the suspension here. More air = higher and fluffier, less air = lower and rougher. I personally like the mechanical aspect as I don't have people jacking with my electronics and having error codes or warranty issues. The plastic links that are replaced with the mechanical method are very simple and replaceable by all but someone from NYC.

Now the profit of a selling a $2k electronic system vs. a $200 system is truly profound

 

Theoretically you are correct. The problem is that we're not talking about only 20mm. Our control module lowers up to 55mm. Lowering links go much further. Of course, at 20mm there's still air in the bags, but at, let's say 80mm....there may not be.

As far as warranty issues. Our control module can be completely bypassed with the flick of a switch. Lowering links can not. If you read some of the previous replies in the thread, everyone who has tried the lowering link has unanimously agreed that they're too rough and not worth it.

 

I've had both as have some members here. My lowering links were set up by a protomotive shop so I know they were done right. IMHO they rode horribly. My mechanic said they rode horribly and just about everyone who rode in the car disliked the ride quality with the lowering links. FWIW I only had the shop drop the car as much as a the techart module does. I was not riding on the bumpstops.

All I can say is I've had both and the lowering module is much more superior in terms of ride quality. (at least with my 22's that is) Keep in mind I live in the tristate area where the pavement is not the best. If you live in a warm climate area where the roads are well maintained then you will not notice the bumpyness of the lowering links as much. Lowering links just ride much harsher... IMHO and others.... not to mention most lowering modules offer features the lowering links could never do.

FWIW...I have my old lowering links with less than 1 weeks driving time on them FOR SALE in the classifieds area. I will let them go CHEAP!

 

Can anyone explain *how* a lowering link can have poor ride quality set at the same level as an electronic lowering module?


Either it is a perception issue("it must be better since I spent more money on it") or there is a factor that has not been brought up yet.

 

Not sure what to tell ya... I've had/have both and took the link out of the 04CTT because it rode so poorly. I would not put the links in if they were given to me for Free and installed for Free they rode that bad.

Like I said.. I've had both.. do your research and you will find I am not the only one saying links ride poorly. Definately NOT a "perception issue" LOL

Keep in mind I am selling my used links in the classifieds and I am still on this thread telling people how bad they are....

 

That is why I am asking the question. Obviously, everyone that has used them says the same thing. I'm more interested in what causes the ride quality issue.

Anyone notice fuel savings on long highway trips with a lowered Cayenne?

 

The links mechanically set the height of the car. The software programmatically sets the height. So if the mechanical sensors read the sensors position as 5mm longer the sensors translate that to needing drop the car by 22mm give or take. Electronically they are taking the sensors readings and re-calibrating them to lower the car 22mm or more or less.

I have not read anywhere that the software modules are re-calibrating the comfort, normal, or sport values which would probably be dangerous to tweak for stability.