Leaf spring or air bags

nano wrote:
We have a 2012 Dodge Ram 2500, and I read in several places that the only difference between the 2500 and 3500 is an extra leaf spring, which increases the payload. Is that correct?

That's correct. But it's not really an extra spring. The 2500 has 5 thinner springs and the 3500 has 4 thicker springs.

We have a 2012 Dodge Ram 2500, and I read in several places that the only difference between the 2500 and 3500 is an extra leaf spring, which increases the payload. Is that correct?

If you are looking to level skip the airbags for now. Start with Torklift Stableloads if they're available for your rig.

stargirl96 wrote:
I know most on this forum don't think a 1/2 ton pickup can safely pull the newer light weight 5th wheels (many which are advertised as 1/2 ton towable). In this case the pickup is a "heavy half" with tow package, 5.7 liter engine, v8. Will adding leaf springs or air bags make it safe to tow a light weight 5th wheel? How will adding leaf spring or air bags affect the formula to determine if you're overweight?

Neither will affect the the GVWR, and with a 1/2 ton, the GVWR, is very close to the total axle rating so once the GVWR is exceeded the rear axle is capacity is very close behind.
The issue with most half tons is the rear axle design and capacity. Unless you have GM with the larger capacity it is questionable to push the limits.

Can you please post the following information from your door stickers.
GVWR
Rear GAWR
Front GAWR
Payload (if new enough)

The bags or springs will help but will not make it safer.

tvman44 wrote:
Air bags. :)

The thread title is *NOT* the OP's question.

Re-read the last two sentences of his post..:R

Will leaf springs or air bags "make it safe" or "affect the forumula"?

Previous posters covered it (answers) very well.

However, for *leveling* - air bags would be my choice also.

~

Another cheaper/simpler option that I have seen some good reports on, and does not affect ride when unloaded

http://www.torklift.com/products/stableload.php

I installed air bags, not so much to level my truck, as it sits level when hooked up, but to keep from hitting the overload stops when traveling on bouncy roads. It also improved the ride quality in combination with my 5th airborne pin box.

Keep in mind the GVWR isn't only for how much weight the truck can carry but more about how much weight it can carry safely ... as in be able to stop safely, go down hill safely, make aggressive manuevers safely and get up to highway speeds safely.

Adding air bags won't address most of the above safety issues.

Air bags. :)

Whatever you choose neither will increase your payload capabilities. Both are intended to level the load.
I had a 1500 Dodge that I added air bags to for my old TT, which was well below my limits, I just wanted a little stiffness to handle a few roads near me that are very wavey.
By the numbers the rig in my signature was within the limits of my old 1500, however after loading up I was over a little.
I upgraded not to carry more, but to increase my confidence in being able to stop when I had to.