Ranger Tim wrote:
I have both upper and lower Stableloads. The truck has the camper package which means a factory stabilizer bar. I have very little concern with weight as the truck only drops an inch or so when loading the camper and it handles nicely. There is a small amount of sway and I intend to eventually fit a Big Wig bar to replace the factory one. I need new shocks so they will be first. After shock replacement I may not want anything else.
The truck/camper combo weighs 11,300 lbs. fully loaded per Cat scales, truck is right at 8000 lbs. empty with a full tank. I often tow a 1500 lb. utility trailer but it usually improves the ride. Driving habits and emergency stopping ability are the most important concerns for me, and I have confidence in my rig to handle most situations (I avoid high speeds of 65+). Only you can make those kind of determinations -- it is all about your comfort level. Asking the forum for opinions will yield a range of solutions and recommendations. Some may make sense for you and others may not. Some folks don't understand why everyone doesn't do everything their way and this philosophy probably pervades their persona. Whatever...
Take a long hard look at your situation and gather intel. You may not need to do anything yet. I needed a solution before I bought and happened to guess correctly. The Stableloads were perfect and the uppers were a five minute install. The lowers were a two hour ordeal of drilling springs. I rented the drill press device from TorkLift and it was essential. I now have two of the wedges engaged when the camper is on the truck. The uppers are fully engaged with the helper springs when loaded. When empty and the lowers are pivoted out of the way the truck rides harder than normal because the uppers are just touching. This leads to some squeeking and bumps can be uncomfortable. This is a truck after all. The uppers could be removed for any extended trips without the camper, but I have never needed to do that. The Stableloads are excellent for hauling heavy loads like firewood too. I have been happy with the purchase. Wish I had them in stainless.
Good luck with figuring out your needs. I think waiting for the camper to be loaded may be the best decision. The uppers might be nice to have on hand as they can be fitted in minutes. You may not need anything though. It all depends on the weights involved. Return them if they are not needed and only be out of the shipping cost.
RangerTim-good post.
Question-can’t the upper SL be adjusted to NOT touch the overloads with no load in bed?
I thought that was one of their advantages...
I am considering the uppers for our new truck.
Thx, Bill
