Just got my truck back from the shop with the new v codes installed. 2000 V-10 4wd. 192k miles.

I also had all the tie rods replaces and installed a OEM remanufactured steering box. I already did my upper and lower ball joints, hubs, rotors, breaks, billstien HD shocks, and rancho steering stabilizer. I'm running 285 75 r16 on the stock rims.

I installed new u bolts and nuts with the V code springs, and the stock shackles.

Like a brand new truck now! Can't believe the difference. I haven't decided on what to do with the rear. I may do the B codes or just add some HD air bags to the rear. I have also been looking into to RAS.

I tow a 2013 Keystone 31BHPR Travel trailer that weighs 6447 dry and about 6800 loaded to camp. 795lb tongue weight. I use an Equilizer E2 weight distribution hitch and a Tekonsha brake controller, and it pulls like a dream. Large trucks just blow by with no wiggle and 35 mph crosswinds white knuckling the steering wheel are a thing of the past.

Going to pull the trailer about 600 miles next weekend and am really looking forward to the new front end.

I ended up with 39 7/8" from ground to bottom of fender on front and 39 3/4" in the rear. So I'm sitting 1/8" high in the front but hope some settling will level her out perfectly. I still plan to do something in the rear, so getting the stock look and rake back with and added inch or two in the rear will be fine with me as well.

I purchased the springs and the u-bolts/nuts from my local ford dealer $569 out the door. They want $383 each for the B codes !

I would rather not buy used or salvaged springs, but $800 and some change for springs is hard to digest.

Any ideas on a cheaper source on new springs?

Still amazed at the difference, I should have done the springs first thing. The steering wander is gone, and the truck steering is tight as a new vehicle. No more creaks, squeaks, or teeth jarring bottoming out!

 

So Texasex2k:
You have not touched the rear yet, but with the V's up front installed, you are almost sitting level with stock in the back? I thought the V's were "good" for just under 2" lift in a V-10

 

I cut this from Rich's thread since you're posting about your truck and asking for advice on your truck regarding the rear springs.

Have you checked out Tousley Ford Parts? Tousley Ford Parts Depot

Stewart

 

I would second Tousley

Got all 4 springs for my EX from them for less than your local dealer wants for just the B codes

Modded B codes should give you a little of the factory rake back using the stock EX rear block

Post some pics or it didnt happen

 

I wished i had done the v springs/ras mod first, the ride quality is amazing! Mention your a fte member @ tousley for big discount!

 

Pictures, Pictures, Pictures!!!

 

I am going to just bite the bullet and get the B codes for the rear. My local dealer was able to come close enough to the Tousley price -shipping.

I was thinking I could just leave the rear springs on there and install the Firestone air bag kit with compressor and tank for less than what my local dealer wanted for the B codes, but after some thought and the fact I just purchased a new travel trailer I decided I am just going to go new springs and RAS.

 

check out sdtruckspring.com too. look for part# 43-1261. I got a pair from my local spring shop for $386. Triangle spring made them in Dubois, which is only 30 miles from home for me. Made in America!

 

What did the 43-1261 springs do regarding lift in the rear? Anthony

 

That # is "B" codes. It is the stock 99-04 super duty rear spring.

 

I wanna help keep these topics clear for people that may not understand the difference between Ford springs vs. aftermarket springs.

SDTruckspring does not sell B codes, V codes, X codes, or ANY Ford coded spring. They sell aftermarket springs with a capacity that comes close to matching the Ford designated V code and B code spring.

SDTruck spring part #43-1261 specifically has a capacity of 6000lbs for two springs.

Ford B codes have a capacity of 6830lbs for two springs.

See this post and the one below it for more info.

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...l#post12515006

Stewart

 

The prices at SDtruck are enticing but beware of the spring rates as Stewart said, seen a few posts recently of guys using SDtruck springs that wish they had gotten Ford parts.

I researched for months before buying the Ford springs, didnt want to take a chance, was tempted to go with SDtruck but the spring rates steered me away.

Good luck

 

As for your question on the rear - I did V codes up front, Modded B codes in the rear.

I run daily with about 200-300lbs in the back, and empty I'm level to up in the rear maybe 1/4" or so.

When not towing heavy (small U Haul type trailers) I sit level. Towing our 10k fire department trailer I sit down in the rear just a bit (maybe 1/4-1/2"?).

I debated the air bags, but people are telling me they will not retain their height...but that RAS will. I've also heard that RAS will raise your unloaded height, so I'm torn (do I want a bigger 'rake' day-to-day?).

 

Look who's back!

LTNP, Robert!

Stewart

 

Call it my winter hibernation!