Durb wrote:
I bumper towed for years and decided to step up to a 5er, 10,000# with 1,800# pin weight. I have a Ram 2004 3500 dually. So I ordered a Patriot 16k installed the bed rails and set off. The ride was horrendous to the point that it was a deal breaker for the wife. The difference between 1 ton and 3/4 ton was the addition of an additional very short spring rack. 1,800 pounds was just enough to lower the truck on the helper springs which had no give whatsoever.
I removed the spring packs and lowered the rear tire pressure to 55 lbs from the 65 recommended and installed Bilstiens all around. This helped some but the only real cure was an air hitch. Note that the Patriot was 16" to the pressure plate and the air hitch is 14". This took me from nose up to about level which helped with the chucking. I have a 31 ft. trailer and I am sure the short kingpin to axle distance was part of the problem.
I figured the 3500 would handle a relative light weight trailer like a breeze but no. I have asked others with longer trailers and lesser trucks that have no problems with standard hitches. After my experience I tell anyone that asks to budget in an air hitch from the outset and really enjoy your towing.
My big concern as well, went with a BD3 air ride hitch right outta the gate. The truck rides great with some weight on her butt, empty a little bouncy.
