Adding Helper Springs

[lorencherylp]

I have a 1500 Dodge 4x4. When we camp, I carry a lot of wood in the bed.
To help with weight control, I think I should add some helper springs/bags.
Any suggestions on what to use? Installation tips? I would like to install myself. Thanks folks!

[Radio]

I was thinking of Timbrens for my F-150. When the truck is not loaded they don't touch the axle which preserves the factory ride, which I really like. Easy D-I-Y install and fairly inexpensive. No problems lifting the truck by the frame either.

[twakefi]

I am in the same delma same truck just pulling a 5er. I found that there are a few main players in the industry. Firestone, AirLift, and Hellwig. My trouble was with finding a set that would work with the B&W hitch I use with the 5er. I would think that the Hellwig ones seem the easiest to attach (just remove the bumpstop hardware and bolt these in place. I personally like the idea of air ride over Timbren because you can adjust them for different loads (aka trip home with less wood vs trip there fully loaded).

Anyhow that is my ideas. I decided not to install any on mine but first try a TrailAir for the camper!

-Tim

[don63]

I installed Super Springs on my 07 Dodge 1500 Ihad air bags on my previous truck and they are ok but you need an air compressor on your vehicle as the air will slowly leak out of the bags over time. The super springs only kick in when you add weight, thus not affecting the original ride. Took me about 30 min per side to install and I am satisfied witht the job they have done.

[KyDan]

Originally Posted by don63

Ihad air bags on my previous truck and they are ok but you need an air compressor on your vehicle as the air will slowly leak out of the bags over time. .

I wonder if you had a small leak in a fitting somewhere.
I have airlift air bags and they do not leak.
At least not enough to matter.
I suppose they might loose air over several months like
a tire or any other inflated object.
I'm happy with mine.
I kinda like the fact that my truck doesn't have to sag down
in the back to start feeling the air bags.
I can leave them at 10 psi and they have virtually no effect
or I can pump them up for hauling mulch, wood or my motorcycle
and trailer!

I don't miss the air compressor.
It only takes a few pumps with a bicycle pump if you are out and
want to increase the lift. I'm not saying you shouldn't get the
compressor but if you want to save a buck, you can get by without
it.

[huntr70]

Originally Posted by twakefi

I decided not to install any on mine but first try a TrailAir for the camper!

A Trailair pinbox on your fifth wheel won't help the bounce and squat you are getting in your 1/2 ton truck.

It helps with jolts and chuckig a typical fiver has, but you can't help the sag with it.

[out4stlhed]

I installed Firestone double bellows and like the results. I did it myself in about 4 hours. If I had a jack large enough to lift the Excursion to remove the tires it would have been quicker. They are direct bolt on but you have to watch fuel and electric lines that may be in the way.

No problem so far with loosing air and I did not invest in the onboard comperssor because it almost doubles the price. I have the fittings mounted at the rear bumper through existing holes on the bottom at each corner.

[twakefi]

The sag does not seem to be excessive in my case. I am not even close to hitting the bump stops and never notice the hitting. Anyhow different topic but mainly wanted to say my two cents worth on the brands.

[Handye9]

Did the Timbrens here. Easy install on 06 Titan.

[lorencherylp]

As a follow up, thanks for all the feedback. I installed my Hellwig Pro Series Springs on Sunday. Hope to check them out soon!