Air bags? or Add a leafs?

[carsonizik3]

2002 dodge 2500 extended cab 4x4 6 speed cummins diesel. Sandpiper 365 SAQ weight around 12000 pounds give or take. I was thinking of adding an air bag system or a Helwig 3500 add a leaf with an anti sway bar. Which one would be the better way to go ?

[jonnys_walkers]

Air bags are only for leveling, where adding leaves to your spring pack will change your load carrying capacity.

[kandl]

Originally Posted by jonnys_walkers

...adding leaves to your spring pack will change your load carrying capacity.

Beg to differ - adding leaves will not change the load carrying capacity any more than bags will. Changing the axle might...

[amxpress]

I installed Firestone air bags on my 2500 to keep my headlights out of the oncoming traffics' eyes. It actually tows better with them.
I prefer the air bags because I can drop the pressure when empty or raise the pressure when my MIL is in the back. They don't affect the ride quality when empty.
Payload capacity is set by Dodge when your truck was built. Adding additional springs or air bags doesn't change your GVWR; it just keeps the rear of the truck from sagging when loaded...technically.

[dretired]

Airbags are probably a better ride .. than added leaf springs... but airbags could possible leak ??

[camper_Lucy]

Originally Posted by carsonizik3

2002 dodge 2500 extended cab 4x4 6 speed cummins diesel. Sandpiper 365 SAQ weight around 12000 pounds give or take. I was thinking of adding an air bag system or a Helwig 3500 add a leaf with an anti sway bar. Which one would be the better way to go ?

What are you trying to do by adding either one?
Both of the choices above will provide you the ability to "level" the TV and the anti sway will help with the little side to side slide you will get not having a Dually pulling this 5th wheel. But neither choice will increase the tow capacity of your TV if that is what you are thinking.
Also the 365SAQ has a dry weight of 12,295 that is before options and other stuff, you will be closer to 15K by the time you have it loaded and ready to camp.

[Rugged Brown]

I am a proponent of these Vehicle Suspension Kits - Timbren Suspension Enhancement Systems I have them installed and they work great for levelling the truck under load. They do not come in play when unloaded, thus not affecting the ride of the truck. It also has the benefit of easy install without need for adjusting air pressure as with air bags. Cost around $200.

[donn]

Nothing you do will increase the weight ratings of your truck. Face the facts, you have too much trailer for the truck. Quit spending dollars putting band aids on your current vehicle and go looking for a dually to handle that load.

[TexasBBQ]

Originally Posted by Rugged Brown

I am a proponent of these Vehicle Suspension Kits - Timbren Suspension Enhancement Systems I have them installed and they work great for levelling the truck under load. They do not come in play when unloaded, thus not affecting the ride of the truck. It also has the benefit of easy install without need for adjusting air pressure as with air bags. Cost around $200.

Terry - Which model did you get?

[Rugged Brown]

Originally Posted by TexasBBQ

Terry - Which model did you get?

these


Double Convolution Springs - Timbren Aeon Hollow Rubber Springs