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Raise the Rear! - Air Spring vs. Additional Suspension Lift

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  #1  
Old 10-26-2009, 12:32 AM
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Raise the Rear! - Air Spring vs. Additional Suspension Lift

Hi Guys,

I need some suggestions on slightly additionally raising the rear of my already lifted 04 F-250 SD FX4.

The front of my rig is riding is a little bit higher in front than the rear by approximately 1-2". The previous owner installed as suspension lift with dual Bilstein shocks front (single rears). He either re-arced or replaced the front leaf-springs and installed 5" blocks between the top of rear axle and rear leaf-springs.

As a side-note, I like the idea of having an air-spring in the rear for eventual ride-leveling during towing.

Questions:
1) Would you recommend an air-spring kit (such as the Firestone) to raise the rear approximately 1" with no payload and have for eventual towing?

2) What is the easiest DIY way to raise the rear further without a air-spring kit? i.e. what is involved in replacing the existing rear blocks with slightly taller blocks or additional leaf-spring?

3) What is the maximum lift height in the rear without incurring drive-line problems?

Thanks!
 
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Old 10-26-2009, 10:36 AM
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IMO, airbags are not for lifting. If you want in inch, get a bigger block or an AAL. Airbags are for assist, not for intentional lifting. It may work but the ride gets rough quick with no load and with air in the bags. I have mine completely deflated unless i put weight in the bed.
 
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Old 10-27-2009, 04:49 PM
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I finally measured the level of my truck. Duh. Turns out it's dead-level.

I am too accustomed to looking at stock trucks that have a pronounced lower front-end. I would prefer a slight rise in the back but it's not a big deal right now.

If I did install the air-springs, I think I can live with the slightly stiffer rise for the small amount of air pressure that would be required to raise the rear a tad - assuming it does not exceed the max rear lift height.

I am still curious where I can find what lift height is allowable in the rear while keeping the drive-line stock ??
 
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Old 10-27-2009, 06:29 PM
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or you can just buy one of those $2000 front bumpers that weigh 400 lbs. now the front of your truck will be lower than the rear!!!!!
 
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