Helper Springs & Heavy Towing

[DirtyLittleSecret]

Looking to maximize my tow rating ability, and am looking to add some sort of helper springs (ie: airbags, overload springs, and maybe a swaybar).  Does anyone here have a good idea as to what I should be focussing on to gain "load rating"?  I'm looking at a 5th wheel, and the 350 is new (dont really want to ditch the 350).
Thanks!

[Blazin]

I have always had good luck with helper leaves such as the ones used on 1 tons from the factory. Basically a miniature set of leaf springs Mounted on top of the truck leaves with a block between them. Plus a set of pads mounted to the frame for them to ride under when loaded.

[zieg85]

Looking to maximize my tow rating ability, and am looking to add some sort of helper springs (ie: airbags, overload springs, and maybe a swaybar).  Does anyone here have a good idea as to what I should be focussing on to gain "load rating"?  I'm looking at a 5th wheel, and the 350 is new (dont really want to ditch the 350).
Thanks!

Assuming your talking about your 78 K20 in your signature?  You should be able to do any spring mods needed with the corporate 14 bolt full floater you should have in it.  If it where me, I would add a couple of springs to your stack to increase ride height without sacrificing to much your ride when empty.  I have a fifth wheel setup on my 85 C-20.  She squats a bit but I have no problem with stability the way it is.  My $.02

[DirtyLittleSecret]

I am indeed referencing the 78 K20.  I've already added an overload +1 add a leaf to the rear spring pack, and really dont want to add another (would be too stiff).  Looking for more alternatives...
BTW: How much does your fifth wheel weigh?

[got2haul]

I installed a set of Roadmaster Active Suspension springs on my 1989 1/2 ton long bed.  They work very well.  There is no slack prior to engagement of the helpers.  They are ready to absorb the additional load as soon as you load it, whereas others let the rear-end sag an inch or two prior to engagement.  They did not stiffen up the ride noticably, and do a great job when I've got a load in the bed or when I'm pulling my trailer.  They make a heavier-duty model, for 3/4 and 1 ton trucks, too.

http://www.activesuspension.com/index.htm

For another option, take a look at Timbren springs:
 
http://www.truckspring.com/timbren_285.html

[Captkaos]

Are you wanting to gain Load capacity or keep it level at max load capacity?  Most kits out there are designed to prevent sag at full capacity, the aren't designed to add capacity to the vehicle.  They are designed for specific capacities from the factory for safety reasons.

A few people I know use airbags to level the load at full capacity.  That way when the truck is empty it will ride the same as normal and when you have a load you air it up.

[DirtyLittleSecret]

Thanks for the beta guys!  Those active systems look quite interesting.  Good to hear you like the results!
I was actually looking to both increase my capacities & maintain a level ride when "maxed out".  Its a weird wishy-washy feeling when loaded up, and wanted to find something to "lock" it down firm.  I know its not my tyres since it does it even with the 10 ply monsters.

[78 Chevyrado]

as long as you don't have to be weighed, it'll do what you want, but if you do have to get weighed, you can't exceed what your door sticker/plaque says.  Mainly helper springs and air bags are intended to make your truck ride at normal ride height when fully loaded.  If you don't have to weigh though, I'd go with air bags for a payload increase.  Tractor trailers use em extensively so they should be great for a pickup truck.  Good luck with it.

[Fordeatinz71]

yea but you shouldn't ever have to get weighed in a regular pickup truck...unless it's used for a commercial purpose.  airbags seem to work best from what i've seen.  that way you can keep a good ride and great hauling capability...

[jimbo]

I was looking to get these for my C10:
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/HEL-991/


It obviously needs them, lol.

[78 Chevyrado]

I was looking to get these for my C10:
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/HEL-991/


It obviously needs them, lol.

I always liked riding in my old 77 1/2 ton when it was loaded like that...  only then did it ride like a cadillac.