I have a 2006 SLT-CTD-48RE- short bed [STOCK]. I just recently started pulling a 32' fifth wheel with about 900# pin weight. It seems to pull and stop just fine; but you know there is something behind you. Anyway when I look at the rig from accross the street I notice there is a slight downward slant to the rear end. Also at night my headlights are just a little to high.
What do you folks recommend that would help without jepordizing the ride; not costing an arm and a leg and overkill? Now while I got your attention, what do most of you recommend for the fifth wheel hitch cushion type ride equipment. The kind of units that keep the trailer form banging back and forth at take off and going down the highway and hitting bumps and keeping the pasengers from getting jard. I have googled sevral vendors; but would like to know what is most popular with most of you. Thanks in advance--

 

Air bags are quick, easy, and relatively inexpensive (roughly $250). And they're adjustable for any size load.

5th Airborne makes nice products.

 

Timbrens- $179
Firestone air bags- $239

Timbrens have worked great for me, hauling firewood or towing the camper. Timbrens are an install and forget part with no adjustments or maintenance.

http://www.truckspring.com/VSearchRe...&pt=189&fv=584

 

I have overload springs on one truck & airbags on the other... I prefer the bags since you can easily adjust load capacity & ride height, and the extra springs are best at a certain vehicle weight - anything different is a degree of compromise.

 

900# for a 32' fiver sounds kinda light. My 27.5' fiver has a dry pin weight of 1465#. Anyway, airbags will basically turn a 2500 into a 3500 SRW and then some!

 

Airbags... passive when empty, help control sway, and are adjustable....

 

Timbrens, easy install, cheap, no maintenance, they don't break.

 

I second the Timbrens, but I didn't pay that much for them.

 

I wouldn't call them cheap at $180, and for $60 more you get adjustablity, and the ability to choose your ride height, not live with where the timbrens sit. And with the timbrens you have to let the suspension sag to get them to engage. 3K capacity vs 5K capacity (and actually more $$$ per pound of capacity than bags)

 

I considered the physics on both. When the spring is compressed all it can do it is decompress (expand or return to it's previous state) harshly with no cushioning. With the bags it is more of a controlled effect. Easy down and easy back up. Very smooth and no bouciness. The springs are already harsh enough. Why make them more so. On two of my 3500's I have taken the overloads off and just ran the bags. Much better ride with and without the TT on the back.


Chris

 

I have seriously considered this when I get my bags for this truck this spring... Anything fancy to it?