Improving ride/control when loaded

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When loaded with about 2000#, my truck sits fairly level. The problem is that it tends to think it's like Ali-it wants to bob and weave around a bit. What is the best solution-airbags, extra leaf, retro fit factory overloads, timbren "rubber springs"? Also, I am getting conflicting answers as to the availability of Ranchos for my truck-does anybody know for sure if they are available? Thanks.
Doug

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91. 5 D250 5 speed

 

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Doug, what are you running for tires. One problem I had on my 94 2500 4x4 was to let a tire salesman talk me into a "C" rating tire. That was all before I was into the "pulling thing". What helped me some was increase the tire pressure which eliminated part of the side roll. Also on that truck I put on Bilstein shocks which helped. Hope this helps.

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1997 3500 SLT, Ext cab, 5spd, TST #11, GV Aux Trans, BD exhaust, Kelderman Air Ride, 60 Gallon fuel tank, Clifford Security, Reese 20k 4way 5th wheel hitch, Boost/EGT gauges, K&N air filter, Rancho RS9000 shocks, Brush Guard, DZee full length running boards.

 

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Iceman,
I'm running Michelin 235/85R-16 with E load rating. I don't think the tires are the problem.
Doug

[This message has been edited by Doug (edited 04-12-2000). ]

 

[Archive]

Originally posted by Doug:
Iceman,
I'm running Michelin 235/85R-16 with E load rating. I don't think the tires are the problem.

As Iceman said, tire pressure could be part of the problem. Unladen, your pressures should be in the vicinity of 55 front and 40 rear. Loaded with 2000 lbs. , you should probably have almost 65PSI front and 70-80 in the rear. Having the tires properly inflated does two things. First, it gives better control of the vehicle. Second, it reduces heat build-up in the tires; heat is probably the number one cause of unexpected tire failure (i. e. , one might *expect* tire failure after hitting a big, deep, chuckhole. )

Back when I had the OEM tires on my undervalved '98, whenever I carried a heavy load in it, I set the tire pressure to the maximum recommended (65/80); unladen, I ran 55/40. With the 19'5" Yokohamas, I use 55/70 unladen, and have (once) run them up to 75/90 carrying 4000 lbs. of horse dung.

With 2000-4000 lbs. in the bed, the only handling complaint I have is that the truck rolls (yaws?) noticeably when cornering; a rear stabilizer would cure this. I do have monotube KYB shocks on the truck, so it does ride fairly nicely empty or laden.

You should notice similar bobbing and weaving when empty or loaded (2000 lbs. is only 33% more weight). If there is a drastic difference, then tire pressure, shock absorbers, suspension bushings and track bar
(if 4x4) should be checked. I would expect the truck to 'wallow' if tire pressure is low; bob if the shock absorbers don't, and be generally hard to keep on the road if suspension bushings (and track bar, if so equipped) are badly worn.

Dunno about Ranchos for the old-gen trucks.

Fest3er