What is the purpose of the " HELPER SPRINGS " ? Do they come into use when the main springs are " MAXED OUT " ? Thank you for the replys.

 

The overload springs are so you can get a decent (i.e., not stiff) ride when empty but still have the ability to haul heavy loads. They only come into play with heavier loads, as you suspected.<br><br>I haven't driven a 3500 but I assume that with medium loads, where the overload springs are barely or not quite hitting the stops, you might hear them hitting the stops when you hit a bump. Nothing to be alarmed at, just something to get used to. Again, I'm assuming this will be the case.

 

Badunit is correct about their function. They have been around a long time - I had them on my old '78 GMC 4x4. A lot has changed since then in suspensions for ride quality, and the &quot;helper&quot; (camper) springs give the extra load capacity when carrying full rated loads. I've never heard any bottom out though.. I think by the time they bottom out you are in a rough place, bouncing all over the cab, and don't have the luxury of listening for them to bottom out..

 

They for sure do bottom out, especially when hitting a sharp drop or something. There is a definite clunk when they come in contact with the stops.<br><br>Hunter