3rd Gen Dakota 2005 - 2011 Dodge Dakota Tech - The ultimate forum for technical help on the 3rd Gen Dakota.

Add-a-leaf for rear

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old May 23, 2009 | 01:34 PM
  #1  
MonkeyWrench4000's Avatar
MonkeyWrench4000
Thread Starter
|
Record Breaker
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 1,513
Likes: 2
Default Add-a-leaf for rear

Does anyone know what length, width and general size the rear of the truck needs to install an extra leaf? I want to do away with the blocks, and move to strengthening the leaf packs.
 
Reply
Old May 23, 2009 | 11:24 PM
  #2  
donkeypunch's Avatar
donkeypunch
King Jackass
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 1,610
Likes: 5
From: Aurora, CO
Default

I will be experimenting with this a little bit. I have a buddy that will let me have his old add-a-leafs. We will see how it fits.
 
Reply
Old May 24, 2009 | 02:05 AM
  #3  
baracis's Avatar
baracis
Record Breaker
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 1,612
Likes: 1
From: Indiana
Default

I assume that would add some height as well right?
 
Reply
Old May 24, 2009 | 09:04 PM
  #4  
donkeypunch's Avatar
donkeypunch
King Jackass
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 1,610
Likes: 5
From: Aurora, CO
Default

Yes. You will be adding height according to the thickness of the spring, plus the addition height from the stiffer combination. Typically, you should see about an inch or more.
 
Reply
Old May 26, 2009 | 12:56 PM
  #5  
studlyblueiz's Avatar
studlyblueiz
Veteran
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 383
Likes: 1
From: Raleigh, NC
Default

Instead of an add a leaf I thought about using the tow helpers to give a mild lift in the rear. And obviously help when I haul heavy loads.

Such as the one found on this site: http://www.suspensionconnection.com/...n/1515D05.html

Go to the instruction manual and you can see how much easier to install it will be vs having to loosen your current leaf pack from the axle tube. And there is adjustability on the tension of the springs.

By the way donkeypunch, if you do recycle an add a leaf kit, it has always been recommended to use new u-bolts and nuts.
 
Reply
Old May 26, 2009 | 05:10 PM
  #6  
turbot_bird's Avatar
turbot_bird
Record Breaker
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 2,147
Likes: 0
From: Winter Garden, Fl
Default

I have something similar on my truck. I think it was 1500lb helpers or something like that from autozoo.
 
Reply
Old May 31, 2009 | 09:50 PM
  #7  
Sankota's Avatar
Sankota
Registered User
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
Default

These are a couple of items I've been looking at. Maybe it will help.
http://www.offroaddesign.com/catalog/Zero%20Rates.htm
http://www.generalspringkc.com/index...arent=117&pg=1
 
Reply
Old Jun 25, 2009 | 11:59 PM
  #8  
viperkota's Avatar
viperkota
Rookie
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 68
Likes: 0
Default

arent you worried abot the leaf paks getting too stiff?


i just did the helper springs on the wifes dak for hauling a trailer...got them from o'rielly's for 30 bucks
 
Reply
Old Jun 26, 2009 | 11:04 AM
  #9  
biker_ahoy's Avatar
biker_ahoy
Captain
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 623
Likes: 1
From: Fort St. John BC
Default

I think the trucks going to get the shutters easier with the add a leaf, it's ok if u drive pavment but any off roading if going to make the truck feel the washboard gitters even more

I would recommend getting firestone air ride for the rear, I belivie there already a thread with the right set you need for our trucks. mind you if does cost a bit more around $500-$600 i think

Link to the thead of guys that have them.
https://dodgeforum.com/forum/3rd-gen...b-cab-4x4.html
 
Reply
Old Jun 26, 2009 | 09:55 PM
  #10  
LB's Avatar
LB
Veteran
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 368
Likes: 0
From: Saratoga Springs, Ut
Default

Originally Posted by viperkota
arent you worried abot the leaf paks getting too stiff?


i just did the helper springs on the wifes dak for hauling a trailer...got them from o'rielly's for 30 bucks
I am interested, do you have a link to these or any info on the maker? I don't have orielly's in Utah and I could not find them on there website (for anywhere near that price).

Thanks,
LB
 
Reply



All times are GMT -4. The time now is 03:51 PM.