Raising the Vehicle

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Oldsmobile Aurora. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

When a load is added to the vehicle, the vehicle body moves down causing the sensor actuating arm to rotate upward. An arm movement of about 25 mm (1 in) amounts to a height change of about 12 mm (1/2 in) at the rear bumper. The upward arm movement activates an internal timing circuit of the RIM module and, after an initial fixed delay of 17 to 27 seconds, the RIM module provides a ground to complete the compressor relay circuit. The 12V (+) circuit to the compressor is then complete and the compressor runs, sending pressurized air to the struts through the air tubes.

As the struts inflate, the vehicle body moves upward rotating the actuating arm towards its original position. Once the body reaches its original height, +/- 25 mm (+/- 1 in), the RIM module opens the compressor relay circuit, and the compressor is turned off.