I read a lot in this forum about beefing up the rear suspension when carrying a heavy camper (Firestone RideRites, Timbrens, Hellwig Sway bars, Torklift, etc) but don't see much (except for Timbrens) that people do to the front suspension. Should I be concerned about my front suspension. I have a GVWR of 9000 lbs and my Cargo Weight Rating for a slide in camper is 1155 lbs. My camper weight is 3000 lbs. (I talked to Dodge and they said the 1155 lbs Cargo Weight Rating for a slide in camper, doesn't apply to my camper cause my camper is a pop top and the Slide in cargo weight rating limit is intended for a regular cabover camper with a high center of gravity) When I am fully loaded with fuel, propane, water (in camper) and 5 people with all their gear etc I weigh about 11000 lbs.

 

I've got a 2007 regcab 2500 4wd. My 2000# popup completely overwhelmed the stock suspension,especially the front. You're probably going to keep the vehicle forever,so I'd recommend contacting Don Thuren@ www.thurenfabrication.com and talking it over with him. He'll recommend and furnish a system which will deliver a stable controlled ride while working real well offroad. The other alternative is Carli Suspension @ www.thecarlisuspension.com. Sage there is well versed in helping you. Do it right the first time.

 

I installed Carli springs and shocks at all 4 corners and tow a 32 foot fiver with no problems.

 

Towing vs carrying it on your back present different challenges. A heavy slide in camper subjects the springs,chassis and brakes to a lot of leverage including pitch and yaw. A towed object suspends itself and generally stops itself via it's own braking system. Both challenge the tow/carry vehicle in different ways.

 

With my camper loaded for hunting season every year I weigh a little under 12K with no problems yet. Look 2 my sig for everything I have installed. My front weighs 5250#, & the rear weighs 6400# loaded. I stand @ 12'6" tall. Pics in my profile. I haul this set up about 3K miles a year over several mountain passes each way, plus several miles of rutted mountain rds. Drive sane, & you'll be fine.