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Biq question though...should i get additional leaf springs. Evidently, the 88 f250 airbag configuration is not ideal according to the best hitch, exhaust and spring shop in town
The PO has had that setup for 31 years. I would hope it is dialed in by now.
Want to drive in forward as going in reverse leaves rear door as a sieve for moisture in winter months. Camper has 3 foot plus overhang past bumper on 8 foot box.
Air bags would be my choice to get around the angle of departure problem you think you may encounter.
Edit; After looking at the picture: You may have a problem.
That's what I'm hoping, get truck soon.. previous owner is a retired auto/heavy duty mechanic, just the kind of fellow who wants everything to ge right. Will find out soon about getting up the drive.
And don't forget, you may be able to install casters or skids on the outboard rear corners, the area most likely to make contact. I've seen this done many time on trailers and motor homes but don't know how it may work on a PU camper. BTW, we'll need pictures of the rig.
One last question. Air bags or 2 leaf springs? Previous owner thinks 5000 style airbags would raise bumper on truck more for clearance and offer nicer ride.( I do not ever anticipate taking off camper...have another truck). Others say 2 leaf springs will do a better job of raising bumper for clearance and would give a smoother ride. I trust the previous owner, good man, good mechanic. But a local shop said airbags on 88 f250 would not be as effective as on more contemporary f250, recommended going to a shop that does springs. That shop said 2 leaf springs each side might lift bumper, hence clearance height 3 to 4 inches. What say you. This is an original brochure picture of the with a similar truck , except mine is f250 hd extended cab with 351 gas motor.
you?
With solid springs, what you install is what you get and what you are stuck with. If it is not high enough, too bad. If it is too high, too bad. If it rides too rough, too bad. With the correct air bags you can raise the truck to suit, level the truck fore and aft and left to right if it needs trimmed. My guess, springs will cost several times the cost of of air bags. Labor alone to install the springs will most likely cost more than the air bags. Air bags are an easy install for anyone handy with a few tools and with a level place to work. Verify with the manufacturer just how much lift you can expect from them. An on board compressor may be a good investment but not necessary. Been there for both shows more than a few times and I would never go back to a heavier spring pack or overload steel springs. To be honest, at my age, I'll never have need for a beefed up suspension. Have fun with your new rig. Use it.
