2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Leveling Kits

[CBlack]

I've searched back through the various threads for leveling kits. Almost all of them refer to 4x4 trucks.



The only thing I've seen are the Daystar poly 2" kit and the various steel kits, both about the same price.



I noticed some talking about larger coil springs. Will those work on the 2WD trucks? If not, is there any more feed back from anyone about the difference between the poly and steel spacers?



Thanks.

 

[CBlack]

Something else... Are the leaf springs the same in a 4wd as in a 2wd?

 

[HHhuntitall]

Rear leaf springs are the same, 4x4 to 2x4, but there are some differences in tow packages, daullies, etc. But spring hanger center dimensions and overall length are the same 94-'02. As far as replacement coil springs, there is one company that used to produce a heavier coil replacement. SuperSprings make what they call SuperCoils, available for 1994-2007 Dodge ram 2500/3500 2x4 trucks. SSC-21. PM me if you'd like a price. The last set I sold were just under $200. I installed a set on my '96, and they only lifted the truck 1/2", but really hold up with a load and on corners. The ride is only slightly "choppier," which can be controlled with better shocks. I really like 'em. Shipping might be expensive as they are pretty heavy, but I'll do you the best I can!!

 

[CBlack]

PM sent.

OK, so for the leaf springs, and the reason i was asking, Carli sells his full progressive leafs that add more leafs. They claim it really softens the ride while keeping the OEM load rating. So theoretically I could use his leafs for the rear and help keep my truck from wanting to bounce into the other lane on bumps.

I found some other custom manufacturers and emailed them as well... no word back yet.

Thanks for the response.

 

[HHhuntitall]

Yeeeaaaahhhhh... . I'm not sure how adding a leaf will soften any ride. The more leafs, the stiffer the ride. I build my own spring packs, as I usually have a steel bed and spend the majority of the time under a trailer. Adding leafs will support more weight, but without shocks and arching of the other springs, I don't see how it can "soften" the ride any. If you're buying a whole spring pack, or removing other leaves while adding one, then yes, it's possible. The heaver the lower "stack" of springs are, the more weight they will hold up when the springs begin to compress. The lighter the upper "stack" of springs are, the better they will ride. Dodge trucks usually make a compromise, and squat heavily when loaded heavily, giving rise to so many aftermarket accessories, such as air bags, add-a-leaf, etc. I, personally, think the few the parts, the less that can go wrong(also the beauty of an old Cummins engine!). I typically use Cab and Chassis upper leaves, followed by secondary leaves custom made out of thicker metal to copensate for load, which give a great deal less than factory springs. Travel is compromised a little, but if a truck is fully loaded, you're not going to be running trails. I also have fully custom springs made, but are twice the cost, going for around $12-1500 a set with U-bolts and nuts. These are the same guys that work on my Peterbilt and Kenworths, so they know how to make a spring... .

 

[CBlack]

They're not adding a leaf. They have a replacement for the OEM one. From their website:

Leaf Springs

 

[HHhuntitall]

Looking at that, it's probably a good system... . but for a 4x4. I'll bet they have too much arch for a 2x4, but you'd have to call and talk to a tech at Carli to be sure. I've no experience with them, personally. If they can compete in the Baja, they should be able to build some good components. But talking to a tech would tell you what you need to know. If they are making the leafs longer, I'd presume they are adding a lot of arch, probably 3-6 inches, which would make your 2x4 sit really high in the rear. But they might be able to make you something that would do just what you want. If you lived in North Texas, I could recommend the guys at Truett-Worral who do my custom work in Dallas. But they're gonna run close to $5-600, plus installation if you don't do it yourself. If I can help you, I'd be happy to.



God bless,



Casey