VEHICLE SUSPENSION CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD OF OPERATION THEREOF

An air management system includes a pressurized air source (44). A manifold block (28) is coupled to the pressurized air source and includes a plurality of suspension valves (34,35) in fluid communication with the pressurized air source for controlling air flow to and from a plurality of air springs (22,24). An accumulator (82) is coupled to the manifold block for storing air. An accumulator valve (84) is in fluid communication with the plurality of suspension valves and the accumulator to allow exhausted air from the plurality of air springs into the accumulator. An electronic control unit (51) is electrically coupled to the plurality of suspension valves and the accumulator valve for controlling a sequence of operating the accumulator valve and the plurality of suspension valves to provide enhanced exhaust flow from the plurality of air springs to maintain the vehicle in a level orientation while lowering the vehicle.