ONAIR / Build Series

ONAIR Build Series: George’s Bagged Mk7.5 GTI

ONAIR Build Series: George’s Bagged Mk7.5 GTI

Welcome to the first entry of our ONAIR Build Series. In this series, we show real installs and real air ride projects that we complete in-house. For Build #1, we're excited to share George’s Mk7.5 GTI. This project shows the clean and simple approach we take when building a proper air suspension setup.

Why George Wanted Air Ride

George came to us with brand new BC Racing coilovers. After finding out we were just a city away, he decided he wanted a full air ride setup instead. He wanted better comfort, better control, and the ability to air out whenever he wanted. Air suspension was the perfect upgrade for his daily-driven GTI.

Converting His BC Coilovers to Air Struts

This was a full conversion. We removed the coilovers and took accurate measurements of every part: shaft length, dampening body size, stroke travel, and locking collar spacing. We sent these specs to our manufacturer, who built custom airbags designed to fit his BC Racing coilovers without any guesswork.

This gave George a setup that feels like coilovers but functions like a true air strut system.

Building His Trunk Setup

George wanted a clean and simple trunk layout with nothing over the top. We built the floor using MDF for strength and added a hardwood-style top layer for a flush and modern look. From there, we installed:

• A seamless 3-gallon tank with an ONAIR logo
• A tank-mounted PSI gauge so he can read his pressure at any time
• An ONAIR 480 compressor for fast air ups
• A manual water trap to protect the system from moisture
• A silver-painted hardline from the compressor to the tank
• Hardlines off the manifold for a clean, organized layout
• A green airline coil kit for all his air tool needs

The final result is a trunk that looks organized, clean, and easy to maintain.

Hardline Details

Hardlines make a big difference in the overall look of an air ride install. For this build, we measured, bent, and mounted each hardline to create even spacing and a symmetrical design. It gives the setup a more premium feel and adds durability to the system.

ONAIR 2V Management System

George chose our ONAIR 2V management system. It’s simple, reliable, and perfect for a daily driver. It gives him:

• Ride height presets
• A wireless key fob that works even with the car off
• Easy control without any extra complexity

The system works great with the Mk7.5 platform and keeps everything straightforward.

Dialing In His Fitment

After the install, we adjusted his ride height and checked every fitting. We made sure the car aired out smoothly and that everything sealed properly. The GTI now has a clean stance when aired out and a smooth ride when driving.

The ONAIR Touch

George trusted us with his GTI, and we delivered a clean and reliable air ride setup that fits his goals perfectly. This is what we love doing — building real setups for real enthusiasts. Follow the ONAIR Build Series to see upcoming installs and projects at our shop.