CHANGING AN AIR SUSPENSION HEIGHT SENSOR

Tools needed: socket and spanner set, torque wrench, cable cutter, jack, wheel chock and axle stands he Range Rover has showcased a number of motoring firsts throughout its life, among which was the first use of electronic air suspension (EAS) on a 4x4. Introduced in 1992 with the longer wheelbase LSE model, EAS also found its way to the well spec’d 100-inch Range Rovers. Its original concept was to not just to ensure the longer wheelbase car could go as far off-road as the regular 100-inch model, but also to take the vehicle further into the luxury market. As well as giving the option to increase the breakover angle of the car by raising the body higher, the rubber air springs also helped to further isolate the body from road vibrations, reducing noise, vibration and harshness to a level that rivalled luxury saloon cars of the day.

The planned 1991 launch date for the EAS system was delayed a year due to reliability problems, resulting in a redesign and emphasising the complexity. Many future owners considered the system too complex for DIY and replaced it with conventional coil springs. But that is a short sighted thing to do. Eas-fitted

Tvehicles don’t have a Boge self-levelling strut, as do regular coil sprung Range Rovers. Nor do they have headlight level adjustment in the dash. So, when towing or using headlights at night while towing, the vehicle may be unbalanced, waving headlights into the sky.

The EAS system is actually fairly simple, comprising a compressor, air tank, valve block that works with the air springs, and a height sensor at each wheel. Diagnosis comes down to a handful of common issues, none of which are difficult to fix, and some are basic maintenance.

The air suspension bladders are rubber, and will age. Like a tyre, best practice is to change them at six years, or earlier if they perish or show cracks, leading to air leaks. The compressor can wear or burn out its small rubber seal on the piston, especially if it has spent time overworking, trying in vain to fill a leaking air spring (or more). Lastly, comes height sensor issues, or problems with the valve block. Parts are available for all elements, so nothing is really a major headache to sort. As ever, patience, and a little time understanding of the system will help simplify any job.

The difficulty is in diagnosing a fault,