2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission beefing up rear end

[VolsFan]

Put a maxx leveling kit on the truck a while ago, like its stance now, but now the problem is when I have a real heavy load in the bed it looks like an overloaded half ton. What is the best way to beef up the rear. I was thinking airbags, or blocks, not sure the best way to go, hopefully somebody else has dealt with this problem. Thanks

Rick

 

[HBarlow]

If the original rear springs have sagged or weakened from years of carrying heavy loads a new spring pack or an extra new leaf or two is one option, addition of an aux spring pack like the duallies had is another.

Many prefer air bags but everyone I've ever known that used them experienced problems with air leaks in the tubing, fittings, and valves that made them a nuisance.

 

[VolsFan]

I have the camper package on the truck, it has an extra set of two leafs. Thanks for verifying what I already thought about airbags Hbarlow, seems like more trouble than what it is worth for me anyways. Im not worried about the comfort of the ride at all, thats what i got my car for, so adding some extra leafs sounds like a good option, there is a spring and alignment shop not too far from me

 

[Road Dog]

My truck driving friends use air bags to level out the load. This is mostly with slide in campers on the back. No issues with leaks and properly set up makes for a nice ride. Those weren't Dodges with the overload setup. With my camper on my 1T it just touches the overload springs. Fully loaded with fuel & water & beer it's just right but if I had a heavier camper I'd add air bags to level the truck.

 

[charlessmith]

I've got air bags on both of my trucks. Each truck has a different kit used. The '97 has air bags that sit on the axle tube and are INSIDE the frame. The '96 has air bags that are OUTSIDE the frame, and these are by far the best ones to use. I think the outside the frame bags are Firestone brand, the others may <?> be 'Air-Lift' brand.

In any event, set them up with a dual control Firestone brand under the dash control panel. This has two control levers and a center gauge that has 2 needles. You can get these that have electric contacts to turn on a compressor to add pressure to a bag. This one does not have the contacts Firestone Ride-Rite Part 7500 - Pressure Gauge, but there is an identical unit that does. Without switches with contacts, you have to have an air tank and a compressor that keeps the tank pressurized - that's only worthwhile if you need air for an air horn or something else.

As far as a compressor, I think VIAIR Compressor Kits are a good way to go, especially if you go the air tank route.

 

[VolsFan]

are the firestone bags outside the frame fairly easy to install? also, with bags, is it absolutey necessary to have an on board compressor to fill them or can I access them manually

 

[ScottLewis]

I had air bags on both my '98 (Air Lift) and the '06 (Firestone). Both were pretty easy install. I used either a portable compressor or other air hose to fill the '98s and it worked ok. I pumped them up a bit when planning to tow, and deflated some when solo. I put the compressor kit on the '06 so I could adjust it as I wanted. It's nice being able to drop the bed a bit to help level the RV in some camps without unhooking, or to add air when driving at night when the headlights are blinding oncoming cars.

I haven't experienced leaking problems with either one.

 

[VolsFan]

right on. i dont really use the truck enough to justify installing an on board compressor, but the firestone bags sound like the way to go

 

[charlessmith]

The Firestones are an easy install on the outside of the frame. I'd recommend using one size larger diameter bolts to fasten the brackets to the frame, maybe grade 8 while you are at it. I sometimes carry a 5000# load and then run about 100PSI in the bags. Doing this, I sheared one OEM bolt that wasn't tightened completely. [ A shop installed the things and I didn't check everything well enough ]. Yeah, it was a really rough road ... traveling the AlCan highway.

If you use the in-cab dual control unit with electric contacts, even a smallish compressor is enough. And it makes everything really convenient.

 

[Applegator]

I have 2 used Air Lift bags if your interested. Used them on our 94 for 1 summer, 4 years old. All the parts with instructions. Good Condition $100. plus shipping. We are in Cottonwood, CA.