Device (other than airbags) to help rear suspension

[pg_rider]

I just started towing a 14,000lb fifth-wheel toyhauler with my 2010 F350. To my pleasant surprise, when I lowered the trailer onto the hitch the rear didn't squat a whole lot and the truck is essentially level:




However, over some of the larger bumps it feels like I may be bottoming out the rear suspension. I can't be sure if I'm actually hitting the stops, or if I'm only getting close.

Regardless, I've seen several devices (TorkLift Stable Load, Timbren, Hellwig Pro Series, etc) that are meant to assist the rear end with heavy loads. Are any of them effective at giving me back some suspension? I don't think I want to go with airbags because I don't need any ride height in the rear.

I may be way off base, and maybe airbags are exactly what I'm looking for, so please help educate me. 🙂

[gijoecam]

carringb wrote:
Looking at the pic, I strongly suspect you are simply smacking the overload spring over bumps. They are really stiff, so you'll feel it contact. I really like the TorkLift stable-laods, as they keep the overloads engaged, eliminating the "whack" while also giving you more stability form the stiffer spring rate.

This is my guess as well.

It's a simple thing to check for: Put a piece of masking tape on the bump-stops and on the overload springs under their perches. Take the rig for a drive, and see what's rubbing. That'll tell you for sure what's making contact and when.

[C_B_]

Another vote for Timbrens.


C.B.

[Bedlam]

That is normal. It allows a more progressive rate on the spring engagement.

[pg_rider]

Here's what my driver side rear springs look like with my camper hooked up:



The overload spring is touching the rear bracket but not the front -- I'm guessing it's normal for the rear to contact first?

[redwing10]

I went with Bil 5100 all 4 corners and SumoSprings Rebel and the ride is great with trailer or not.

[rhagfo]

pg_rider wrote:
Good tip on the gum! I'm going to try that 🙂

Any particular model of Bilstein shock? And we're talking just the rears right?

Well I would do all four as we did for maximum effect. We did 5100's, and feel they ae not only for looks, but also for higher unsprung weight. Unloaded a bit rougher ride, but they work great for bounce control.

[Greene728]

pg_rider wrote:
Good tip on the gum! I'm going to try that 🙂

Any particular model of Bilstein shock? And we're talking just the rears right?

Either the Bilstein 4600 or 5100's. Basically the same shock other than color and the 5100 is also available for lifted vehicles. The 4600 is considered the HD choice between the two. Just google Bilstein 5100 vs 4600 and read up on em. And personally I'd do all four corners. Simply because they will not only enhance towing, but unloaded ride as well. Again, you won't be disappointed and worth the few hundred bucks!

[walker111]

I have a 2012 f350 and my fifth only has a 1200 pin weight. I was always curious how the truck would handle 2700-3000 pin weight.
Door sticker has 3340.

Have heard the newer trucks from 2011 on had longer springs and hence more sag but not sure.

[pg_rider]

Good tip on the gum! I'm going to try that 🙂

Any particular model of Bilstein shock? And we're talking just the rears right?

[Sport45]

pg_rider wrote:
...

However, over some of the larger bumps it feels like I may be bottoming out the rear suspension. I can't be sure if I'm actually hitting the stops, or if I'm only getting close.

Put a wad of chewing gum on the bump stop. At the end of the day a quick look will let you know if you've been bottoming out.

I suppose a piece of foam tape would tell you the same thing, but it lacks imagination. 🙂

[rhagfo]

Greene728 wrote:
Bilstein shocks first and foremost. Then, either the timbrens or a custom add a leaf. You may be satisfied enough with just the Bilsteins. Definitely a major improvement (especially with the bouncing you describe) and worth every penny!

XXX100

When are people going to understand that shocks control bounce and cycles!
The OP has enough spring, Bil's will stop the bounce.

[Greene728]

Bilstein shocks first and foremost. Then, either the timbrens or a custom add a leaf. You may be satisfied enough with just the Bilsteins. Definitely a major improvement (especially with the bouncing you describe) and worth every penny!

[Bedlam]

The upper StableLoads work great at engaging your stock suspension sooner without adding harshness when unloaded. With the upper and lower Stableloads, I carried 7000 lbs on the rear axle without issue on my F250.

[Vannnce]

I like my airbags. adjustable depending on how heavy/ light a load I have.