Add a leaf or airbags

[RWorth]

I am looking to purchase a 3rd Gen truck SB 4x4 quad with auto. I have been looking for a 3500, but they are hard to find. I missed one that Tomeygun had, trying to let go of that much money is scary. Anyway from reading on the TDR several with 2000lb. pin weights are recommending the 3500 but with the scarcity of the SB quads I thought about trying a 2500 and either adding a leaf for overloads or pay more money for the airbags which would put money spent above the price of a 3500. Looking at the 3500 the aux spring stops are welded on, can aux springs or overload spring stops be put on with out welding as in bolt on. My 96 4x4 has the camper package and squats very little with my Excel RT 28 trailer. I am not sure how far a 3rd Gen 2500 will squat.



Thought and opinions would be appreciated.



Merry Christmas to all.

Have you received the greatest gift ever given and that it is free?

 

[tgbol]

I went with the air bags. I also have auto leveling valves on mine. I can 4000# in the bed and the truck will return back to it original ride height in about 20 seconds. They don't affect the unladen ride and really handles the load.

 

[tgrfan2]

I wouldn't hesitate getting a 2500 and the air bags. A friend has a 2003 QC SB 3500 SRW and pulls a fiver with 2800# pin wgt. It doesn't get all the way on the overloads so it tends to rebound harshly on dips. Rides great empty though. He is considering going to airbags too. My 2500 has towed my fiver (2760# pin wgt) over 8K and a very front heavy TT before it with no problems other than the carrier bearings. Just be glad the Dana 70s aren't used anymore.

 

[SnoKing]

You only get a 9000 GVWR with the 2500, and the truck will weigh around 7500 ready to tow a 5er. That only leaves around 1500 for pin weight. I have 2200 of pin weight and firgured that a SRW 3500 LWB would be marginal on meeting GVWR. With your 28fter you may be OK, however if you get a larger 5th wheel you will be over alot. SNOKING