What RideTech suspension does and who makes it

RideTech is a suspension manufacturer owned by Ride Technologies, Inc., based in Ohio. They build complete suspension systems and individual components—coil-overs, air suspension kits, control arms, and shock absorbers—primarily for classic and custom vehicles, though they also serve some modern platforms. RideTech does not make suspension for factory new cars; they are an aftermarket supplier, meaning you buy their parts to replace or upgrade what came on your vehicle.

The company manufactures most of their own components rather than rebranding parts from other makers. Their systems are sold through automotive retailers, speed shops, and online distributors. You cannot buy directly from RideTech's factory, but you can order through dealers or shops that stock their inventory. Installation typically requires a professional mechanic or fabricator, especially for full system swaps.

RideTech is known in the hot rod and classic car community for systems that lower ride height while maintaining or improving handling. They also make systems for trucks and SUVs. Their product line includes bolt-on kits for common platforms and custom-engineered solutions for one-off builds.

Key Takeaways

  • RideTech manufactures aftermarket suspension parts and complete systems for classic cars, trucks, and custom vehicles, not for factory new cars.
  • Their systems typically cost between $2,000 and $8,000 for a complete four-corner kit, depending on the vehicle platform and whether you choose coil-over or air suspension technology.
  • Installation labor is separate from parts cost and usually ranges from $1,500 to $4,000 depending on complexity and your local shop rates.
  • RideTech systems are sold through automotive retailers and speed shops, not directly from the manufacturer, and require professional installation in most cases.
  • Common reasons owners choose RideTech are lower ride height, improved handling, adjustability, and the ability to dial in ride quality for show cars or daily drivers.

Coil-over versus air suspension: the two main RideTech approaches

RideTech offers two fundamentally different suspension architectures. Coil-over systems use a coil spring wrapped around a shock absorber; the spring rate and shock damping are fixed once installed, though some models allow adjustment by changing springs or shock valving. Air suspension systems replace coil springs with air springs (bellows filled with pressurized air) and use an onboard compressor and electronic controls to adjust ride height and stiffness on the fly.

Coil-overs are simpler, cheaper, and require no electrical work beyond basic wiring for lights or sensors. They are the standard choice for budget builds and vehicles that will not be adjusted often. Air suspension costs more upfront—typically $1,000 to $2,000 additional for the compressor, valves, and controls—but lets you raise or lower the car at a button press, which is popular for show cars, vehicles that need to clear driveways, or owners who want to change ride height without tools.

Both types work well. The choice depends on your budget, how often you want to adjust the car, and whether you value simplicity or convenience. A coil-over system on a classic car might never need touching after installation; an air system on the same car lets you lower it for shows and raise it for parking.

What a complete RideTech suspension kit includes

A full four-corner RideTech system typically contains shock absorbers (or air springs and shocks), coil springs (if coil-over), control arms, sway bars, and mounting hardware. The exact contents vary by vehicle and kit level. A basic kit might be a bolt-on replacement for the front suspension only; a comprehensive system covers front and rear and may include frame modifications or custom brackets.

Most kits are vehicle-specific. RideTech publishes fitment lists showing which models their systems bolt onto with minimal modification. If your vehicle is not on the list, a fabricator can build a custom system, but that adds cost and time. Kits for common platforms like Chevrolet C10 trucks or Ford Mustangs are shelf items at many shops; kits for less common vehicles may need to be ordered and could take weeks.

Installation includes removing the old suspension, installing new components, aligning the wheels, and testing. Some kits require welding or frame notching to fit properly. A shop will tell you during the quote whether your vehicle needs modification beyond bolt-on work.

Typical cost breakdown for a RideTech suspension project

Parts cost and labor cost are separate. A complete RideTech coil-over kit for a classic truck or car typically ranges from $2,000 to $5,000 depending on the platform and whether you choose basic or adjustable shocks. Air suspension kits run $3,500 to $8,000 for parts because of the compressor and control system. These are approximate ranges; exact pricing depends on the specific vehicle, current market prices, and the retailer.

Installation labor at a professional shop usually costs $1,500 to $4,000. Shops charge hourly rates (typically $75 to $150 per hour) or flat rates for common jobs. A straightforward bolt-on installation might take 8 to 12 hours; a system requiring welding or frame modification can take 20 to 40 hours. Get a quote from your shop before committing.

Wheel alignment after installation is usually $150 to $300 and is essential—suspension changes alter wheel angles, and poor alignment causes tire wear and handling problems. Some shops include alignment in the installation quote; others bill it separately. Ask upfront.

How to find RideTech parts and choose a shop

RideTech parts are sold through automotive retailers like Summit Racing, Jegs, and Speedway Motors, as well as specialty shops that focus on classic cars or trucks. You can search online for "RideTech [your vehicle]" to see what kits are available for your platform. Retailers list part numbers, fitment details, and prices; comparing a few sources often reveals price variation of 10 to 20 percent.

For installation, look for shops with experience on your vehicle type. A shop that specializes in classic Chevrolets will install a RideTech system on a 1967 Chevelle faster and more reliably than a general repair shop. Ask for references, look at their portfolio, and get written quotes from at least two shops. A detailed quote should list parts, labor hours, alignment, and any modifications needed.

Some shops will source the parts for you; others require you to buy them and bring them in. Clarify this before you commit. Buying parts yourself sometimes saves money but shifts the risk of ordering wrong parts onto you.

Common reasons owners choose RideTech systems

The most common reason is lowering. Classic cars and trucks often sit too high by modern standards, and RideTech systems lower the ride height by 2 to 6 inches depending on the kit. This changes the vehicle's appearance and center of gravity, improving handling and giving a more aggressive stance.

A second reason is adjustability. Many RideTech shocks allow you to dial in compression and rebound damping, letting you tune the ride for comfort or performance. Air suspension adds height adjustability, so you can lower the car for shows or raise it for rough roads.

A third reason is reliability and ride quality. Old suspension components wear out and fail. A new RideTech system replaces worn parts with modern engineering, often resulting in a smoother, more predictable ride than the original equipment. Owners of daily-driver classics often report that a new suspension makes the car feel like a different vehicle.

Show car owners choose RideTech because the systems allow precise height control and a clean appearance—air suspension hides the compressor and lines, and coil-overs can be tuned to sit perfectly level.

What to expect during and after installation

Installation typically takes 1 to 3 days depending on complexity. The shop will remove your old suspension, install new components, and perform a wheel alignment. You should not drive the vehicle until alignment is complete and the shop has tested the system. Some shops do a test drive before returning the car to you; ask if they do.

After installation, you may notice changes in how the car handles, sits, or rides. A lower ride height can mean less ground clearance on driveways or speed bumps—ask your shop about this before work begins. If you chose an air system, you will need to learn how to operate the controls and maintain the compressor (keeping the air filter clean, checking for leaks).

Most RideTech systems come with a warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship, typically 1 to 3 years depending on the component. The warranty does not cover wear from use or damage from accidents. Keep your receipt and warranty paperwork.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install a RideTech suspension myself if I have basic mechanical skills?

Some bolt-on kits can be installed by experienced DIY mechanics, but most require a lift, alignment equipment, and knowledge of suspension geometry. If you have never done suspension work, professional installation is safer and usually faster. A shop can also catch problems—like frame damage or worn steering components—that need fixing before the new suspension goes on.

Will a RideTech suspension void my vehicle's warranty?

This applies only if your vehicle is still under a factory warranty, which is rare for vehicles that need RideTech systems (usually older classics). If your car is new, check your warranty documents or call the manufacturer. Aftermarket suspension typically voids suspension-related warranty coverage but may not affect other systems.

How much lower will my car sit with a RideTech kit?

Lowering varies by kit and vehicle, typically 2 to 6 inches front and rear. RideTech publishes specifications for each kit showing expected ride height change. Air suspension systems let you adjust height after installation, so you can dial in the exact stance you want.

Do I need new wheels or tires after installing a RideTech suspension?

Not necessarily, but lowering often means your existing wheels no longer fit without rubbing the body or suspension. Many owners use the suspension upgrade as an opportunity to install new wheels and tires. Your shop can tell you during the quote whether your current wheels will work or if new ones are needed.

What maintenance does a RideTech suspension need?

Coil-over systems need little maintenance beyond occasional inspection for leaks or damage. Air suspension systems require more attention: keep the compressor air filter clean, check for air leaks in hoses and fittings, and have the system serviced if it loses pressure. Your shop will explain maintenance during installation.