Timbrem or Sumos on F150
Hello, Does anyone have any experience with these two systems? I installed the Timbren SES in a 2021 F150 4x4. Drove 600 miles and it was a jarring experience. I left a 1 inch gap. Going ov...
Forum Discussion
Super_Dave wrote:
IMO, leaving the gap creates the SLAM effect. When I used something similar with my cabover camper, I had the block just barely engaged with the spring.
When fully loaded, the gap goes away before you hit the road, so it's already carrying some weight and generally not slamming with either option.
When running empty, they engage only when you hit a bump (ie: the gap is used up):
- Timbrens apply full resistance as soon as they touch. X lbs/inch of compression.
- Sumo gradually increases resistance after they touch Y lbs/inch/inch
So all else being equal, the sumo will apply far less for the first inch of compression but will quickly ramp up as compression increases creating a smoother feel as they engage.
If you take away the gap with Timbrens while running empty, it will give a rough (but not slamming) ride as the resistance is enough in that they lift the empty bed rather than compress the springs & timbrens.
Airbags get around this by adjusting the pressure to the load but they are more complex and prone to failure.
