New tow vehicle hitch set up questions
I've just picked up a new 2018 f150 3.5 eco ,max tow pkg,2000lbs air bags,andersen chain eq ( never needed eq with the old 99 dodge 4x4 cummins) any way my question is after setting up hitch accordi...
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Honestly if you need airbags, then you are over weight. With a properly set up WDH, airbags, or helper springs are not needed. I do understand the use for them, and use 1500 pound Sumo Springs myself, but only to help stabilize the suspension on rough roads and cornering.
Deflate the bags when setting up the hitch so you don't chase it.
I also have a 2018 Platinum F150 with the 3.5 and Max tow. I use a Blue Ox with 1500 pound bars since the weight of the trailer and hitch are borderline 975 pounds, rather have more spring than not enough, been there, done that, and the new F150's do not like it. I had a 2014 and used a Husky hitch, no issues but the new gen, the hitch was worthless, could not get it dialed in at all, so went to Blue Ox.
One other thing to note, return the front fender to its unloaded height, not 1/4 not 1/2, but the full height. Makes a huge difference in handling, and feels rock solid.
Once setup correctly then add air to the bags, just enough to firm up the truck but DO NOT RAISE IT! If you do, your entire setup is thrown off and you have to start over or deal with poor handling. When airing up, place a tape measure on the rear fender well and stop filling when it moves, and stay within 1/8" of uninflated. You will get the benefits of the bags and let the hitch do the work it is designed to.
Deflate the bags when setting up the hitch so you don't chase it.
I also have a 2018 Platinum F150 with the 3.5 and Max tow. I use a Blue Ox with 1500 pound bars since the weight of the trailer and hitch are borderline 975 pounds, rather have more spring than not enough, been there, done that, and the new F150's do not like it. I had a 2014 and used a Husky hitch, no issues but the new gen, the hitch was worthless, could not get it dialed in at all, so went to Blue Ox.
One other thing to note, return the front fender to its unloaded height, not 1/4 not 1/2, but the full height. Makes a huge difference in handling, and feels rock solid.
Once setup correctly then add air to the bags, just enough to firm up the truck but DO NOT RAISE IT! If you do, your entire setup is thrown off and you have to start over or deal with poor handling. When airing up, place a tape measure on the rear fender well and stop filling when it moves, and stay within 1/8" of uninflated. You will get the benefits of the bags and let the hitch do the work it is designed to.
