I have a 10,400 LB 5th wheel using a 2011 F-250 ,6.7 Crew Cab 4x4 Off Road. 27,000 miles to tow it. Last year when I hooked the trailer to the truck I had about 2 1/2" between the stop and the rubber bumper this year I just hooked it up today and found it to be about 1" and I noticed just bringing the 5th wheel from storage home that it bottomed out a couple times where it never did before. Is this due to the great Rancho Shocks I would think that would be the only thing that could change between last year an now?? Any thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks

2011 SD 6.7
Crew Cab, 4x4 Off Road
Oxford White w/Special Edition Adobe Leather

 

Technically shocks do not do anything to support a load. They do have resistance to them which may be weakened but it really should not be a factor.

I will also say that the shocks are likely worn out and new ones may help. But shocks should not be relied upon for load bearing support.

 

I noticed too at about 20000 miles that my truck's rear end was sitting a little lower with no load. I tow alot of loads at 101% of rated tow capacity so I know what the cause is. I'm pretty sure my springs were a little weak so I installed air bags. Problem solved.

 

Are you sure that the weight is identical both times? Good shocks can help prevent excessive upward travel of the suspension when you hit bumps but do next to nothing to actually support the load. A good example is my old beater that just had new struts put on. Previously it would hit the rear bump stops without much weight in the back when I hit a good size bump like a speed bump or something. Now it won't bottom out because of the resistance of the new struts, but with a bag of dog food in the trunk and two adults in the back seats she is still riding on the stops.

So your problem could be either weak springs or increased tongue weight. I don't believe that your springs would change that much over such a short time period, so I'd bet that your weight balance in your trailer has changed.

 

I agree with what others have posted. I would think that the factorg springs have settled or the trailer weight has changed or at the very least the distribution of the weight has changed.

If you decide that you are interested in airbags I would be happy to help with any questions you may have. For reference, here is a link to the kit we make for your application, kit 57396. That will give you a good idea of how simple the install may or may not be for you.

 

Where can I get them installed around 48176

 

Here is a link to a couple of local retailers that can do the install for you.