PLS Pneumatic Lift System

PLS pneumatic lift system – extra clearance on demand

PLS Pneumatic Lift System kits are convenient add-ons for coilover-based suspensions, providing a few centimetres of additional ground clearance when needed. Mounted above the spring, each air cup raises the body when pressurised, making it easier to navigate driveways, ramps and speed bumps. PLS sets are offered as front-only kits with two cups, or front and rear kits with four units for cars that need extra clearance at both axles. This allows you to enjoy an ultra-low stance without sacrificing day-to-day usability.

Technical Basics

PLS air cups can be paired with almost any coilover brand as long as the basic dimensions match the requirements. The outer diameter of the spring must be below a specified value and the inner diameter above a minimum (for example an inner diameter greater than 61 mm and an outer diameter less than around 85–89 mm), ensuring the cup fits safely. Kits are available for several piston rod diameters – commonly 12.5 mm, 14 mm, 15 mm, 20 mm and 22 mm – covering most street coilovers on the market. Air supply comes from a small tank and compressor or from an existing airride system, with the PLS units providing the lifting action above the spring.

The lift cups are made from strong materials with internal seals and guidance surfaces to keep rod movement smooth and controlled. A compact air management setup – typically a compressor, air tank and simple valve – controls pressure in the cups, which can be operated as a standalone system or integrated into existing airride management. PLS is particularly useful on cars that run very low static or bagged setups but still need to tackle real-world obstacles without damage. Warning: measuring your coilover dimensions accurately with a caliper is essential; using the wrong size cup is unsafe and cannot be properly secured.

Selection Criteria

To choose the right PLS pneumatic lift system, start by carefully measuring your coilovers. You need the spring’s outer and inner diameter, plus the damper shaft diameter – PLS kit descriptions clearly state which rod sizes (such as 20 mm or 22 mm) they are designed for. Decide whether you need lift only at the front axle or at both ends of the car. For many road cars, protecting the front bumper and splitter is the main concern, so a front-only kit can be sufficient.

Think about how you want to control the PLS system inside the cabin: with a dedicated switch, or integrated into your existing airride controller. If you already run an airride system with a tank and compressor, the lift cups can often be plumbed into that system with a separate valve and pressure regulation. On static coilover cars, you will need a small dedicated air setup sized to provide enough volume and pressure for the lift function. Warning: always respect the maximum specified lift height and operating pressure in the documentation – exceeding these limits can cause damage or unsafe behaviour.

Installation & Maintenance

Installing a PLS pneumatic lift system requires disassembling the coilover and using a proper spring compressor, so if you are not experienced, professional installation is recommended. The cups are mounted between the spring and top hardware in the sequence specified by the manufacturer, ensuring the air cup does not bind and has sufficient clearance throughout suspension travel. Airlines must be routed so they do not kink or snag as the suspension moves, and fittings must be leak-free before the car is driven. Always perform a thorough leak test with soapy water after assembly.

For maintenance, periodically inspect the seals, cups and air lines, especially if you use the lift function frequently. If the lift becomes slower, uneven or noisy, check for air leaks, damaged hoses or contamination inside the system. Avoid using aggressive lubricants on moving parts; if lubrication is needed, use products recommended by the manufacturer. Warning: any unusual noises, sticking or uneven lifting are reasons to stop using the PLS system until it has been checked, as the lift function is critical to safety.

FAQ

What is the main benefit of a PLS pneumatic lift system on a low car?
A PLS system lets a very low airride or static coilover car temporarily raise its ride height to clear obstacles. This makes everyday driving over ramps, driveways and speed bumps far less stressful and reduces the risk of bumper or splitter damage. It effectively adds a “comfort mode” to an otherwise extreme stance.

Which coilovers are compatible with PLS kits?
PLS air cups can work with many threaded-body coilovers as long as the spring and shaft dimensions fall within the specified ranges. You must measure the spring inner and outer diameter and the shaft diameter with a caliper before ordering. If your dimensions are outside the supported range, a custom solution or different system may be required.

Do I need a separate air system to run PLS?
If you already have an airride setup with a tank and compressor, the PLS system can often share it, using a dedicated valve and regulator. Static coilover cars will need a small standalone air system sized to operate the lift cups reliably. In both cases, correct pressure and leak-free plumbing are essential for safe operation.

How much lift can I expect from a PLS kit?
Actual lift depends on the specific kit and installation, but typically you gain several centimetres of extra ground clearance. This is enough to clear most everyday obstacles that would otherwise be risky at your normal low ride height. Exact values are given in the manufacturer’s documentation for each kit.

How reliable is a pneumatic lift system compared to full airride?
With proper installation and care, a PLS pneumatic lift system can be as reliable as a well-built airride suspension. The key is correct sizing, precise installation and regular leak checks. Any sign of abnormal operation should be investigated immediately, as the lifting function is safety-critical when negotiating obstacles.