Overloaded 1/2 Ton Gasser

[SLVRBLT]

This isn't a question about a diesel, but is about towing and hauling.



My close friend who has a '94 (I think) short bed, 1/2 T. , 360 cid, auto, just bought an 18' flat bed trailer, New Massey Fergeson Diesel tractor with front loader, brush hog, and box blade.



When he hooks it up, the truck really squats and is really loaded. It has the power to pull everything OK, but needs some help in the spring department. Yea, I know, he should have bought a CTD, but you know what they say about hindsight, etc. He is considering either installing air bags or coil over shocks. I've never had either, so I don't know? Anybody got an opinion on the assets of either choice? I'd appreciate some opinions from those of you who have tried these.



Thanks,

Dave

 

[Barry]

The air bag kits are great and easy to install. We have put them on a number of our customers trucks... ... ... ... Pump'em up when you need them or let the air down to about 5# for a sssmmmooooth ride. Best of both worlds... .....

 

[RAMalama]

TIRES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

More important than anything is those cheezy passenger car like half ton tires. Read the side wall, acknowledge how usless they make your 1/2 ton, and be sure and stay with the tire's limits.



Have fun. Be safe.



Ian

 

[Shooter]

just bolt about 10k# to the front bumber to equalise the load. I sure am glad he has adequate brakes, tires, steering traction, suspension, frame and reciever to handle the load. One born every minute.

 

[SLVRBLT]

He previously put more than adequate tires on for the load, it has a good receiver hitch and the trailer has brakes, so safety wise, he's not too far off base.



Barry, the air bags you are speaking of, are they the Firestone bags?



Dave

 

[RAMalama]

Probably cutting Barry off but just wanted to give the Firestone bags a plug. They are far and away a better bag than airlift. In my research those seem to be the only two choices that are up to the task. Go with Firestone if you were to ask me.

 

[Extreme1]

I wonder how that little axle is doing?