Driving a big rig for long hours can take a toll on your body. Sitting in the same position and enduring constant vibrations from the road can cause back pain, headaches, and fatigue. But you don’t have to suffer to do your job. There are ways to give yourself a smoother, more comfortable ride. Read on to learn the secrets to improving your rig’s ride quality so you can feel better at the end of each haul.
Table of Contents
Evaluate Your Current Suspension
The first step is taking a close look at your truck’s current suspension system. OEM suspensions are designed to handle heavy loads, but ride comfort is a secondary concern. The springs are stiff and the shocks provide little dampening. This allows the cab to bounce around a lot over bumps and uneven roads. Consider switching out components like springs, shocks, and bushings to ones better suited for a smooth ride. Don’t ignore worn parts either. Fix any loose connections or damaged components.
Consider An Air Ride Suspension Kit
One of the best upgrades for ride comfort is an air ride suspension kit. This replaces the springs with inflatable air bags. You can adjust the air pressure to soften or firm up the ride. Air bags provide a cushioning effect that absorbs vibrations and impacts much better than steel springs. This creates a smoother, more stable ride with less bouncing. An air ride kit levels the truck too, preventing annoying lean when cornering or hitting bumps. Just make sure to get an air compressor and management system designed for heavy vehicles.
Improve Your Seat
Don’t neglect the importance of your driver’s seat for comfort. The seat is your direct connection to the chassis. A worn out seat with little padding will transfer vibrations straight to your body. Replace it with a high-quality, ergonomic truck seat. Look for a suspended design, adjustable lumbar support, and dampened movements. Custom upholstery options like memory foam inserts also transform harsh seats into plush thrones. A comfortable seat makes the miles easier, especially if you face back problems already.
Address Cab Comfort Factors
There are a few other tweaks to make the cab more livable during long hauls:
- Install cab insulation/sound deadening material to reduce road noise
- Upgrade or expand your HVAC system for climate control
- Add storage organizers, sleeping berths, fridges etc. for convenience
- Mount a quality stereo system for entertainment
Take Care Of Your Body
No matter how smooth the ride, sitting for extended periods takes a physical toll. Make sure to take regular breaks to move around and stretch your muscles. Eat healthy foods and stay hydrated too. Don’t ignore pain or discomfort either. See a doctor about any back, neck, or spinal issues. Maintaining your body well complements improvements to your rig’s ride.
You rely on your big rig to make a living, so make the ride as comfortable as possible. Assess your suspension, upgrade to an air ride system, improve your seat, and focus on cab comforts. Your body will thank you after long days of driving. Treat yourself to a cushier ride and better performance with a few tactical upgrades.
