Removed 250 lbs. (leaf-springs) and replaced it with 90 lbs. of R4 Tech. The kit uses a single leaf per side that is only used to locate the axle. A j-spring is used to prevent axle wrap. All suspension is handled by air-bags that automatically maintains ride height irregardless of the load. Gone is the buck-board ride when empty. Gone is blinding traffic when I'm pulling a loaded 32 foot toy-hauler. Flip a switch to lower the truck for loading motorcycles.

 

If money was no object then clearly there are other options out there besides basic leaf springs. But really.....I cant justify spending well over $2000+ for a single axle suspension kit. Not to mention, understanding that a more rigid suspension offers more support for a 5th wheel trailer and reduces chucking as well. So to soften 5th wheel load and shock, installing an air ride hitch or pinbox is a better option than softening the suspension. I may be completely wrong here too but thats what research has learned me. All I know is my truck is a decent riding vehicle but then again, I only spent about 8% of the cost of the R4 kit for something that works, so I'm a little partial.

 

Though I appreciate the opinion put forth by KATOOM, I think it's a question of life-style. My baby is a Megacab so I take passengers in my daily-driver so the comfort is important in this 1-ton. I like being able to lower this 4X4 for loading my katoom (KTM for the uninitiated)...oh yeah, my wife has an easier time climbing in as well. I could have spent $1200 for electric steps, but it wouldn't address the other issues. I could have bolted on some running boards, but then I'd lose my ground clearance. I was impressed when I first saw the R4 Tech at the SEMA show in Las Vegas. I paid $1914 from Sdtrucksprings.com and installed it myself with basic tools. When it comes to my CUMMINS, money really is no object.

 

I certainly can appreciate your invested concern for ride comfort. And it seems only KTM riders understand the origination of my user name too. Glad it works for ya, and yes.....if I had the money, I'd have all kinds of cool goodies on my truck. Take some pic's if you get a chance.

 

KtM

 

+1 !
450 EX-C

 

just got my 2014 KTM 500 EXC...and lovin' it.

 

Thundercat, do you have any pics of your suspension setup, front and rear? Thanks!

 

Better be more specific, he may post picts of his bike

 

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