2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Help on suspension upgrades

[rmcnamee]

Hello all,

I have a 1997 2500 Reg. Cab CTD/auto 4x4 and I'm looking to upgrade the front and rear suspension. I bought this truck from a dealer in Wisconsin and the original owner really cheaped-out on the factory options. This truck doesn't have the factory Towing Package, Snow Plow Package or Camper Package, and I'd like to change that at once. What the original owner did with truck, I have no idea. Every CTD Ram I've ever bought new, has been optioned to the hilt- atleast with regards to these types of options. After all, its a diesel- put it to work!



Front suspension:

I plan on doing the DSS and 3rd Gen trackbar, but I'd like to upgrade the springs. My truck doesn't have the snow plow package, which I think includes heavier-duty front springs. Is this true? If so, can I install the front springs out a 1994-2002 2500/3500 that had the factory snow plow package?



Rear suspension:

My truck doesn't have the factory overloads or sway bar. I plan on getting a Hellwig rear sway bar, so that addresses that problem. For the rear springs (3" wide), I was looking at getting a set with the overloads from a bone yard. I have found a few, mostly between $200 and $300 per pair. Do I have to stick with springs out of a 1997, or can I use a set out of any 1994-2002 2500?



Thanks for the help,

Ryan



BTW, if anyone has any of these factory items laying around and you're looking to sell them, let me know.

 

[Regcabguy]

I know of a member that replaced his stock springs w/factory snow plow springs and it came out well. A little stiffer with minimal lift. As far as the rear goes, a Hellwig will work well and is slightly stouter. In my opinion the factory overloads are worthless in that they don't begin to help until the rear sags way down. I've had great success w/my Firestone air bags. Hope this helps.

 

[JPittinger]

Try Alcan Spring in Grand Junction, CO. They have a website. At those prices, you can get some NEW custom leaves to do exactly what you want them to. Mine got rid of the BS lift blocks and are progressive (no overloads). Good luck.

JJ

 

[rmcnamee]

Thanks for the replies. I found a company in PA that makes rear springs, OEM style overload set-ups, etc. , so I'll give them a call today.



Thanks

Ryan