air bag suspension weight increase
My wife and I have a 2015 GMC Sierra 3500 crew cab extended bed diesel with single rear wheel. We had decided on a 5th wheel that was within my tow limits (16900 for 5th wheel), however we are explor...
Forum Discussion
op wrote:
A few people I know recommend adding air bags to my rear suspension, which according to Firestone increase my tow capacity an additional 5000lbs. Coming to the point: Is this actually safe to increase the tow capacity using air bags? If I am correct the only difference between a SRW and DRW is the extra wheel with no change in suspension or frame, therefore airbags should work without adding any additional stress to the vehicle itself. Has anyone used air bags to increase their capacity and have you had any issues? Recommendations?
Tow capacity ?? IMO you mean load carrying capacity which air bags helps the trucks rear spring package carry more weight.
However with out increasing wheel and tire capacities you gain nothing. Never overload a wheel or tire.
Your 3500 SRW GM has a 7050 RAWR. These trucks rear axle can weigh in the 3000-3200 lb range which leaves approx 3850-4000 lbs for a payload.
Check out online weights calculator which figures base truck weighs and all added options. Just follow choices given to the weights calculator which gives a GVWR and FAWR and RAWR payloads.
Probably millions of trucks of all sizes on the road using air bag technology to carry the load.
Check out our truck camper forum for modding a trucks rear suspension to carry more weight safely.
