Ram's Auto-Leveling Air-Worth it if tongue weight is 3,000?

loudounrv wrote:
I am interested in the auto-leveling air suspension now being offered on the RAM 3500s. It automatically levels the load so the truck won’t squat and you get the benefit of the full travel distance of the suspension.

So, my big question for you big 5er owners out there is this– if I someday own a 5er with a tongue weight of 3,000, would I notice much of a drop on a DRW 3500 WITHOUT this new system?

Here’s a video from RAM describing it much better than I can: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zVw4OrFJmCw

Considering that tongue weight is ½ my payload rating, I’m not sure if I would need this. But I only have a small TT now, so I'm looking for your advice. Thanks!

If my truck was ready to be replaced, Ram's air suspension would be a major deciding factor in my buying one over the other two brands. I think it's a fantastic idea that the other two brands will need to implement to keep competitive. If you are ordering a new truck, I'd certainly go for it. As others have said, it will improve your loaded ride but more importantly soften your unloaded ride. Win on all fronts...

loudounrv wrote:
The 2500 has an option where it is a total air suspension front and rear. The 3500 is only air-assisted and is rear only. In 2015, I wouldn't be surprised if they also offer the complete air suspension option on the 3500. But right now, it is only to auto-level the heavy loads.

2500 is only the rear, it's the 1500 that's all 4 corners.

The 2500 has an option where it is a total air suspension front and rear. The 3500 is only air-assisted and is rear only. In 2015, I wouldn't be surprised if they also offer the complete air suspension option on the 3500. But right now, it is only to auto-level the heavy loads.

From what I understand the truck sits level when unloaded and as the weight is applied the truck remains level. So no more ass end high ride anymore.

I will be getting one once they hit the streets!

If it's a true air suspension I'd buy it without a 2nd thought to pull my 5er. Air suspension gives a much better ride and it carries the load at the proper height every time.

Depends on cost for the option and how much you tow. Due to both factors I run Timbrens.

My tongue weight is under 3000 pounds, and I do notice a settling of the truck when it is loaded (sag is too strong of a word here).

If I were buying a new RAM, I would get the air suspension. I think it is a good idea.

I think the biggest difference you would note is a more compliant and comfortable unloaded suspension. The air leveling means you can have a quite soft suspension with the springs, and add the capacity only when you need it. Also air springs can add ride height and capacity without adding stiffness to any great degree, so even loaded the ride should be more compliant. I notice the 2500HD option is a fully air ride suspension, not supplemental - that should be very interesting. As an aside I just replaced three of the original air springs on my bus, due to exterior cracking of the surface of the rubber spring. They still worked perfectly, did not leak, and were perfect inside - at 34 years old...

Downside of air suspension is you need to maintain an on-board compressor.

Brian