2nd Gen Ram Tech 1994-2001 Rams: This section is for TECHNICAL discussions only, that involve the 1994 through 2001 Rams. For any non-tech discussions, please direct your attention to the "General discussion/NON-tech" sub sections.

Suspension Upgrades

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old Sep 5, 2009 | 05:16 PM
  #1  
QuadCabLuv's Avatar
QuadCabLuv
Thread Starter
|
Record Breaker
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 1,585
Likes: 0
Default Suspension Upgrades

I love my Dodge but the suspension feels just a little weak to me. It tows around a trailer and car without a problem but i would like to be able to tow more and have the security of knowing that the suspension and springs will hold up. So what modifications can i make to stiffen it up and provided some more support?

What about those Leaf spring helpers? anyone try them?

I also live out in the counrty and drive down some fairly rough roads daily. What shocks would yall recommend?
 
Reply
Old Sep 5, 2009 | 05:22 PM
  #2  
speeddemon31176's Avatar
speeddemon31176
All Star
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 754
Likes: 0
From: Carbondale,PA
Default

Helper springs, air bag systems and heavy duty shocks are your options short of custom suspension. As far as towing is concerned you should find out what your truck is rated as capable of towing and do not exceed that. Our brake systems and suspension systems aren't designed for anything heavier than what they are rated at. The brake system in particular really isn't designed to stop much more than a truck that is empty let alone when towing.
 
Reply
Old Sep 5, 2009 | 11:12 PM
  #3  
95MaroonMonster's Avatar
95MaroonMonster
Record Breaker
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 2,087
Likes: 0
From: Indiana
Default

i have Hellwig 2500# overloads, it takes a good load to squat her down, plus they are progressive, meaning, unloaded they don't affect ride quality much

and they are install and forget
 
Reply
Old Sep 9, 2009 | 05:05 AM
  #4  
palerider9999's Avatar
palerider9999
Rookie
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 73
Likes: 0
From: State College, PA
Default

I have Timbrens and I tow a 4500# camper and my truck handles it just fine. Other than no power.. I know air bags are a better option since you can deflate them when not in use. You definately need something to beef up the rear.. Try Ebay or Craigs list.. I have $75 in mine and worth every cent.
 
Reply
Old Mar 1, 2012 | 12:03 PM
  #5  
DGjohn3's Avatar
DGjohn3
Registered User
Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
From: New York
Default

Helper springs, air bag systems and heavy duty shocks, or even an Timbren kit will work to.http://www.sdtrucksprings.com/ fair prices and live help when you need it.
 
Reply
Old Mar 1, 2012 | 12:29 PM
  #6  
dodgeramit_10's Avatar
dodgeramit_10
Veteran
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 485
Likes: 0
From: hickville WI
Default

I bought firestone airsprings going to try and install this weekend, I regret not going with the rancho s9000 I believe they are where you can adjust the hardness in the shock to make a smoother ride when empty.
 
Reply
Old Mar 1, 2012 | 12:52 PM
  #7  
merc225hp's Avatar
merc225hp
Champion
15 Year Member
Shutterbug
Liked
Loved
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 4,717
Likes: 10
From: N/A
Default

I use the ride rite air bag system and think it's great. Not the cheapest way to go. The air bags helped smooth out the ride from the back of my truck after I installed the add a leaf springs. As for shock Bilsteins are the way to go.

http://cart.bilsteinus.com/search/mm.../drivetype=4WD
 
Reply
Old Mar 1, 2012 | 12:56 PM
  #8  
mantisman51's Avatar
mantisman51
Record Breaker
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 1,636
Likes: 1
From: Miracle Valley, AZ
Default

REALLY old thread, but what the hay. I have put the 1100# leaf helpers on just the rear of the leaf spring and I can now haul 1500+ # with very minimal sag. They worked on my 82 F150 heavy half and they have now worked on my 1500 Ram. I swear by them.
 
Reply
Old Mar 2, 2012 | 08:18 AM
  #9  
QuadCabLuv's Avatar
QuadCabLuv
Thread Starter
|
Record Breaker
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 1,585
Likes: 0
Default

I've been pulling 3000+# for 3 years with stock everything and my truck handles it fine without sag. But when I pull out 16 ft trailer that's when I start experiencing issues.
 
Reply




All times are GMT -4. The time now is 11:55 PM.