Forum Discussion

milo's avatar
milo
Explorer II
Oct 19, 2013

Air Bags VS Helper Springs

Yá'át'ééh;
I've searched through all of the towing & tow Vehicle forums and did not see anything about the use air bags and/or any type of helper springs. Those of you that have added either / or to your truck would you do the same again or would you switch and use the other. Please tell we why you feel that the air bags you put on your truck are better than the using one of the many types of helper springs, or vice versus. I'm looking for a consensus on which is a better system to use to help level a truck. If you use helper springs, which type or which brand of air bags and why do you feel they are the best?

Thank you
Milo

29 Replies

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  • TheGrinch's avatar
    TheGrinch
    Explorer
    Oct 20, 2013
    I ran air bags on my '04 Jeep GC for about 4 years and loved them. Now that I have switched TV/TT, I do plan on purchasing a set of air bags for the Armada. It gives a great deal of flexibility for your suspension for different load types. Even with a WDH, that little bit of tweaking helps.

    Larry
  • uterep's avatar
    uterep
    Explorer
    Oct 20, 2013
    I have RAS ........... great product easy install takes about 30 min in your driveway .

    alot cheaper than bags , lets say a good first step if you don't like the RAS an easy resell
  • KD4UPL's avatar
    KD4UPL
    Explorer II
    Oct 20, 2013
    I have Air-lift air bags on my dually. When it's empty I run 10 psi (the minimum). When I have the camper on I run about 40 psi. The adjustability works great for changing load conditions. They install easily with not much more than a 9/16 wrench. I've had them for 4 years and no problems.
  • TomG2's avatar
    TomG2
    Explorer
    Oct 19, 2013
    If the tow vehicle's springs are insufficient for carrying the intended load, regardless of whether it comes from gravel, truck campers, fifth wheels, or travel trailers, suspension improvements can help with stability. Better in my book to purchase a vehicle with a more capable suspension in the first place, but sometimes that is easier said than done. I have gained some stability from overload springs and Timbrens. I like the Timbrens because they are so simple. (Like me)
  • YnotTurbo's avatar
    YnotTurbo
    Explorer
    Oct 19, 2013
    I have the Firestone airbags with on board compressor. Love them. They really keep my 4000 lb. pin weight in check.
  • skipnchar's avatar
    skipnchar
    Explorer
    Oct 19, 2013
    It really depends on what you are towing. If it's a 5th wheel or slide in camper those products are ok but if its a travel trailer you're much better off with a correctly sized and correctly adjusted weight distribution system. That way you do more than just prop up the rear of your vehicle. They will also replace weight lost from the front axle and greatly improve both ride and handling.
  • RWDIII's avatar
    RWDIII
    Explorer
    Oct 19, 2013
    Do you have the 8200 GVW or the 7700 GVW max tow?
    I installed Firestone work rites and like them.
    they are like Tembrens and never go flat.Rides a little rough when empty.
    Also installed Monroe load levelers for sway and LT C tires

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