What McGaughy Suspension Does
McGaughy's is a manufacturer of aftermarket suspension components, primarily known for lowering kits, air suspension systems, and coilover setups for trucks and SUVs. The company makes bolt-on parts that replace or modify your vehicle's factory suspension to change ride height, handling, and appearance. McGaughy's products are installed by mechanics or suspension shops — you do not order them directly from the manufacturer.
The suspension system on your vehicle controls how the wheels connect to the frame, absorbs bumps, and keeps the tires in contact with the road. McGaughy's parts alter that system by replacing springs, shocks, or adding air suspension components. The result is typically a lower stance, stiffer handling, or both, depending on which kit you choose.
Key Takeaways
- McGaughy's makes lowering kits, air suspension systems, and coilover setups sold through suspension shops and retailers, not directly to consumers.
- Installation requires removing factory suspension parts and bolting on McGaughy's components, a job that takes a shop several hours to a full day.
- Lowering kits change your vehicle's ride height and appearance but may affect ground clearance, turning angles, and how the suspension handles bumps.
- Air suspension systems let you adjust ride height on the fly using an onboard compressor and control module, useful for towing or off-road driving.
- Costs vary widely depending on the kit type and your vehicle, ranging from under $500 for basic lowering springs to $3,000 or more for full air systems.
Types of McGaughy's Suspension Kits
McGaughy's offers several different product lines, each designed for a specific outcome. A lowering kit typically includes replacement springs and shocks that sit lower than factory parts, dropping your vehicle's ride height by 2 to 6 inches depending on the kit. These are the most common McGaughy's products and are popular for trucks that come from the factory with a high stance.
Air suspension systems replace your factory springs with air springs — flexible chambers filled with compressed air instead of metal coils. An onboard compressor and control module let you raise or lower the vehicle at the push of a button. This is useful if you tow frequently (you can raise the suspension when loaded) or want to lower the vehicle for a show appearance and raise it for daily driving.
Coilover kits combine a spring and shock absorber into a single adjustable unit, allowing you to fine-tune both ride height and stiffness. These are less common in McGaughy's truck lineup but offer more customization than a basic lowering kit.
What Happens During Installation
Installation is not a bolt-on-and-go job. A suspension shop will lift your vehicle, remove the wheels, and disconnect the factory suspension components — usually the springs, shocks, and sometimes control arms or sway bar links. The old parts come off, and McGaughy's components bolt into the same mounting points.
The process typically takes 4 to 8 hours depending on the kit complexity and your vehicle's condition. If rust or seized bolts are present, the job can take longer. Once installed, the shop will lower the vehicle, reinstall the wheels, and perform a wheel alignment to may support the tires sit correctly and the steering is centered.
You should not drive the vehicle when ready after installation. Most shops recommend a short test drive to check for noise, vibration, or handling issues before you take it on the road full-time. If you chose an air suspension system, the shop will also show you how to use the control module and explain the compressor's duty cycle.
How Lowering Affects Your Vehicle
Lowering your vehicle changes more than just how it looks. Ground clearance decreases, which means you may scrape on driveways, speed bumps, or steep angles. The suspension geometry also changes — the angle at which your wheels sit relative to the frame shifts, which can affect tire wear and handling until the vehicle is properly aligned.
Ride quality often becomes stiffer, especially with lowering springs alone. McGaughy's shocks are tuned to work with their springs, but you will feel more road texture and bumps compared to factory suspension. This is intentional — a lower vehicle is less stable at extreme angles, so stiffer suspension compensates.
Turning radius can be affected as well. Lowering the vehicle changes the angle of the suspension components, which can reduce how far the wheels can turn at full lock. This is usually minor but worth knowing if you drive in tight spaces or tow a trailer.
Air Suspension Advantages and Maintenance
Air suspension systems offer flexibility that fixed lowering kits do not. You can raise the vehicle for highway driving or rough terrain, then lower it for parking or shows. The compressor runs automatically to maintain pressure, and the system includes a pressure tank so you can adjust height multiple times without the compressor running constantly.
Maintenance is more involved than a basic lowering kit. Air springs can develop leaks over time, and the compressor may need service. Most systems include a warranty on the compressor and air springs, typically 2 to 3 years. You should have the system inspected annually by a shop familiar with McGaughy's products to catch small leaks before they become problems.
Cost is the main trade-off. A basic lowering kit might run $800 to $1,500 installed, while a full air suspension system can cost $2,500 to $4,000 or more depending on your vehicle. Air systems also add weight and complexity, which can affect fuel economy slightly.
Finding a Shop and Understanding Costs
McGaughy's products are sold through suspension shops, truck accessory retailers, and online parts suppliers. You cannot order directly from McGaughy's as a consumer. If you know which kit you want, you can price it at multiple retailers, but installation cost varies by shop and location.
When you contact a shop, have your vehicle's year, make, and model ready. Ask for a quote that includes both parts and labor. Most shops can tell you the labor cost upfront, though they may add time if your vehicle has rust or other complications. Request a timeline — some shops book out weeks in advance, especially during truck season.
Ask the shop whether they perform a wheel alignment after installation and whether that cost is included in the quote. A proper alignment is essential after suspension work and should not be an afterthought. Also ask about warranty — McGaughy's typically warrants the parts themselves, but the shop should warrant their installation work.
Common Issues and What to Watch For
The most common complaint after lowering is rubbing — the tire or suspension component touching the wheel well or frame during turns or over bumps. This usually means the alignment was not done correctly or the kit was not right for your vehicle's configuration. A good shop will catch this during the test drive and correct it before you leave.
Noise and vibration can occur if bolts loosen or if the shocks are not properly damping the springs. This is rare with McGaughy's products but can happen if installation was rushed. If you hear clunking or feel unusual vibration after installation, return to the shop when ready — do not ignore it.
For air suspension systems, compressor noise is normal but should not be constant. If the compressor runs every few minutes, you likely have a small leak. Have the system inspected before the leak grows and the compressor burns out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will lowering my truck void the factory warranty?
Suspension modifications typically void the suspension and drivetrain warranty on the affected components. Your factory warranty on the engine, transmission, and other systems usually remains intact. Check your warranty paperwork or contact your dealer to confirm what is covered before you proceed.
Can I install a McGaughy's kit myself?
Installation requires lifting the vehicle safely, removing and installing suspension components, and performing a wheel alignment. Most people should not attempt this without proper equipment and experience. A suspension shop has the tools, lift, and alignment machine needed to do the job correctly and safely.
How long do McGaughy's suspension parts last?
Shocks and springs typically last 50,000 to 100,000 miles, similar to factory components. Air springs may last longer but depend on maintenance and driving conditions. Regular inspection and prompt repair of small leaks will extend the life of any system.
Will lowering my truck affect towing capacity?
Lowering alone does not reduce towing capacity, but it does change the angle of the hitch and may affect how the trailer sits. Air suspension systems let you raise the vehicle when towing, which restores proper hitch geometry. With a fixed lowering kit, you may need to adjust your towing setup or accept a slightly different trailer angle.
What is the difference between a lowering kit and an air suspension system?
A lowering kit is a fixed setup — once installed, the ride height does not change. An air suspension system uses compressed air to adjust height on demand, letting you raise or lower the vehicle without stopping. Air systems cost more but offer flexibility; lowering kits are simpler and less expensive.