overload springs

[burhead]

I have a 2004 gms sierra 1500. I occasionaly pull a 1700 lb pickup box camper. It squats the truck pretty good. Any recommendations. I condidered bags but my envoy came with them on there and I had nothing but problems with them. I also would like tp maintain my ride quality.

[retired2001]

I had a '96 1/2 ton which I pulled a 5th wheel with, for a short time. I had a set of "air bags" installed as helper spring only. They didn't come into play unless I loaded it down. You do have to keep a minimum amount of pres. 5 to 7 psi, just to keep them inflated so they don't "pinch" or bind. It worked great and didn't affect the unloaded ride. Good luck!

[tbplus10]

Air bags would be the best thing you could do.
Firestone 500c's are a stout bag that has a good reputation as an overload device. I have them on an 01 1ton Silverado Dually and a 97 Suburban 2500, I've had them on 3 previous trucks also. When installed and used correctly they cant be beat.
Like Bob posted when not in use maintain a minimum pressure of 5-7psi so they maintain their shape and dont get pinched in any moving parts.

[Pete95Sierra]

i agree with them. firestone airbags are the way to go

[scott_lockwood]

If you want to maintain your same ride quality I'd definitely avoid overload springs. I had two leafs added to each side of the rear of my '96 Suburban 2500 and unless I'm towing a 8600 lb, 45 ft. trailer, the ride quality is way too harsh. And that's with a compressor, a full, five drawer tool box, a generator and usually two 7.00 x 15" bias ply trailer tires on 15" steel rims...which way about 100 lbs each! Empty it would be like I had wood blocks for springs. In fact, I'm thinking on having them removed. Maybe your other airbags weren't set up right or something, because I'd say that's a better overall solution, or maybe adjustable air shocks would do it.

-Scott