Timbrens vs. Firestone Ride Rites?

[87Coug]

I have a Ford F250 7.3L 4X4. We just purchased an 09 316BHT. Price is comparable but I was wondering if one is better than the other. It looks like I can do either myself? Any responses would be helpful and appreciated. Thank you.

[donn]

There are literally hundreds of posts on this question. IF you look at the Timbren it is very similar to the factory bump stops you already have. And IMHO that is all they are only taller. So what happens is that they come into contact with the frame sooner. Many people complain that the Timbrens give a rough ride when empty. With air bags you can inflate the bag to maintain a level ride height on your truck. Neither will increase your trucks load carrying rating one pound

[NWJeeper]

Welcome to the forums Coug. (don't tell them you know me, they might treat you better)

[EdJunior]

I have the Firestone, and am generally pleased with them. I installed them myself, but had a rough go of it. Wrong set, and incomplete parts (I was missing every nut for the package!). But after I got them installed, they did just what they're supposed to do. I got them to help level the rig some, but also to help with the ride of the 5th wheel. They did make a considerable difference, but did not help the chucking completely. I think after I do some mods to the kingpin of the 5er, it should settle the whole thing down nicely. Oh...if you don't deflate the bags after at rip, man, it will rock your teeth! Trust me on this!

[Mr. Black]

Do you see Timbrens on 18 wheelers driving around? I am a member of several Diesel forums and see this question come up often. I still don't understand how Timbren has made it as far as they have selling blocks of rubber. Not saying they don't work, just don't see them working as well as an airbag.

I went with the AL 5000s only because they offer a kit compatible with our gooseneck hitch. Can't complain one bit.

[bwssr]

I have the Firestore Ride rites, w/ remote air control. Bags were easy to install, the wireless compressor and manifold were a pain.
08 F250 CC 4X4

[87Coug]

Thanks for all the responses. Firestone Ride Rites it is. Thanks for the welcome NWJeeper.

[3 Happy Campers]

Just want to throw my 2 cents out there.
I have a 1997 Dodge 2500 V10 with 97,000 miles.
The old girls rear was sagging when I lowered the 5er on it.
I’m not over any of the weights ratings, just tired springs.

I installed a set of Timbrens & one helper spring on each side & now the truck has its factory stance with or without a load.

Unloaded my ride is no better or worse after the mod.
With the 5er there is a noticeable improvement in handling.

Not being able to do a side by side I can’t say if the Ride Rites are better.
I do knowTimbrens+springs were a little over $400 & for a truck I only paid $5K for it was a good investment.

[bwssr]

Check this out
http://www.forestriverforums.com/for...ries-6872.html