[sqrelnts]

Hey guys, I'm thinking of adding either air bags or overload springs/ add a leaf kit to my 04 2500. I just want the extra support for when I tow so the truck doesn't squat too bad. Any opinions as to which might be better? Any brands of air bags better than others? any brands of add-a-leaf better than others or are factory 3500 overloads as good or better? thanks for any insight, suggestions and help.

 

[95f150]

I asked this question months back aswell and everyone said airbags. I ended up ordering firestone bags. Glad i did, They are great! (Not trying to sound like Tony the Tiger) Easy installation, affordable, and adjustable.

I didnt add the compressor as i wouldnt use it all that much, I leave 10psi in bags (unloaded) To air up i have a little 12v electric compressor for quad tires etc that i use, It only takes 30 seconds to go from 0psi to 100psi. Leave that compressor under seat.

 

[ynots57]

firestones all the way, dont mess with adding overload springs

 

[Desert Dually]

add-a-leaf kit will make your truck ride like it has no suspension, LOL, rattling your teeth out of your skull with a serious bone-jaring ride unless you keep the truck fully loaded down 100% of the time.


Firestone bags are great, although the cheapy air line and fittings that are supplied with the kit are VERY prone to leaks. Ask me how I know!

 

[LiftedLaramie]

i have bags on mine also, had to get the steel spacers for mine and it works great

 

[AH64ID]

I have bags and overloads (3500 SRW).. I use the bags, not the overloads. The overloads just take too much compression to engauge.

I did see some aftermarket overloads on a 2500 the other day, and they were really nice. But unless you always have weight on the rear axle I would think a bags are just better.

 

[Fisherguy]

Go with the air bags, Pac Brake makes nice ones, I used an AirLift wireless controller with my PB compressor, works slick.

 

[sqrelnts]

thanks for the advice. bags it is. Any good places to get the pac brakes and or the firestones?

 

[Fisherguy]

I gor mine right from Pac Brake near where I live, they don't list dealers but you can find one here:
Find A Dealer -


General info on the PB bags:
Pacbrake air springs, air bag suspension and onboard air make your ride smooth

 

[95f150]

this is where i ordered mine

Firestone Air Bags Dodge Ram 2500 / 3500

 

[blowsomesmoke_7]

i dont mean to hijack this thread but im thinking bout puttin bags on my 94. if i get the mounted compressor can i run a train horn off it also?

 

[Fisherguy]

You'll need a tank , I'm guessing 2 gallon minimum but not sure how long a blast it would be good for...

 

[surfram]

I have the Timbren DR2500CA kit on my truck. They never need to be adjusted and cannot leak. 30,000+ miles and no complaints.

 

[Mocho]

Timbrens are great. I am modifying mine to work with my 8" lift, air bags are just such a pain unless you got onboard air.

 

[Fisherguy]

... or a bike pump or 12 volt portable...?

If you want a leveled truck that stays leveled when loaded that won't happen with Timbrens, I can't imagine the ride would be very good either with all your weight supported by a piece of rubber.

 

[pitrack]

I have the Timbren DR2500CA kit on my truck. They never need to be adjusted and cannot leak. 30,000+ miles and no complaints.

How is the ride when loaded and resting on the Timbrens? I have a set I will be putting on the front for plowing and am curious how the ride is when you're on the Timbrens.

Thanks

 

[surfram]

Timbrens are pretty flexible with a heavy load. The ride is firmer but not jarring. They help stabilize the truck by reducing sag and porposing. They made a huge difference towing our camper especially when going over expansion joints and bridges. My 6,000lb capacity timbrens are installed without the spacers and only come into play when the truck has a decent load on it. They also really work great for hauling loads of firewood or mulch. They are not adjustable like air bags but I like the fact that you never have to mess with them. http://www.timbren.com/ http://www.timbren.com/timbren-application-guides/application-pdfs/DR2500CA.pdf

 

[Mocho]

I really liked how they rode, I liked it more then empty stock. The rear stop hopping over bumps and more glided over them. It was a much better ride IMO.

Airbags are ok, but even a bike pump would be annoying. I have to be able to hook up to a 14k trailer at a moments notice, even trying to spend 5 mins airing up the bags would just be annoying, not to mention always letting the air out after or else it will ride worse then a rock. Or several trips to yards picking up stuff in a day, it's either fill them up each time or deal with a terrible ride when empty.

If the rear is 1" higher then the front empty, then the timbrens will kick in and keep it pretty level.