1、 Understanding the impact of nitrogen pressure on shock absorber performance
- Supporting force
-A higher nitrogen pressure will generate greater support force for the shock absorber during compression. This is very important for maintaining vehicle stability during high-speed driving or dealing with large impacts. For example, in desert off-road driving, sufficient support is required to prevent the vehicle from sinking excessively during high-speed uphill driving.
-A lower nitrogen pressure will make the shock absorber softer, suitable for driving on relatively flat but still slightly bumpy roads, such as rural dirt roads, which can provide better comfort. - Rebound speed
-The nitrogen pressure affects the rebound speed of the shock absorber. When the pressure is high, the rebound speed is relatively fast, which helps the vehicle quickly recover its body posture on continuous bumpy roads.
-When the pressure is low, the rebound speed is slow, which is suitable for avoiding excessive bouncing of the vehicle when passing through obstacles at a slow speed.
2、 Select initial pressure based on vehicle and driving scenario
1.Off road scenes
-Rock climbing: In rock climbing scenarios, lower nitrogen pressure (usually around 100-150 psi) is required so that the shock absorber can have enough travel to adapt to the irregular shape of the rock and provide better tire adhesion.
-Desert Off road: When driving at high speeds in the desert, a high nitrogen pressure (approximately 200-300 psi) is required to prevent the vehicle from hitting the bottom during high-speed uphill and flying, while maintaining vehicle stability.
-Mud and jungle off-road: In these complex and relatively slow scenarios, moderate nitrogen pressure (150-200 psi) is more suitable, providing sufficient support while ensuring a certain level of comfort.
2.Vehicle weight
-Heavier vehicles require higher nitrogen pressure to support the body. Generally speaking, for every increase in vehicle load, such as additional equipment or passengers, it is necessary to increase the nitrogen pressure appropriately. For example, a fully loaded off-road vehicle may require an additional 10-20 psi (pounds per square inch) of nitrogen pressure compared to an unloaded vehicle.
3、 Method of adjusting nitrogen pressure
- Prepare tools
-Professional nitrogen filling tools are required, including nitrogen cylinders, filling hoses, and pressure gauges. Ensure the accuracy and sealing of the tool to avoid affecting the effectiveness of pressure adjustment. - Adjustment steps
-Firstly, park the vehicle on a level surface and ensure that the shock absorbers are at room temperature (if you have just completed high-intensity off-road driving, wait for the shock absorbers to cool down).
-Find the nitrogen filling port on the shock absorber, usually with a protective cover. After opening the protective cover, connect the filling hose to the filling port.
-Measure the current nitrogen pressure using a pressure gauge. If pressure needs to be increased, slowly open the nitrogen cylinder valve and observe the pressure gauge until the desired pressure is reached. If pressure needs to be reduced, nitrogen can be released through the relief valve on the shock absorber while observing the pressure gauge reading.
-After the adjustment is completed, close the nitrogen cylinder valve, remove the filling hose, and reinstall the protective cover of the filling port.
Attention off-road enthusiasts, it is best to have professional off-road modification technicians or experienced off-road enthusiasts adjust the nitrogen pressure. Incorrect adjustments may result in poor shock absorber performance or even damage.
