Shock advice

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Sep 30, 2004 | 03:19 PM

Dett

Thread Starter

Junior User

Joined: Feb 2003

Posts: 63

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From: Southern Utah

Shock advice

I am looking for advice on purchasing some shocks for my 77 F-250 supercab trailer special. What I am doing is hauling two four wheelers on the bed of the truck while towing a 20 foot travel trailer. It does fine now but it does sag some in the back and lightens the front wheels a bit. I have an equalizer hitch for the trailer, but the four wheelers still lighten the front end some. I don't know what brand is on it now, but they are gas shocks. Is there a good gas shock that will work or should I be looking at air shocks? Any ideas on types and/or brands would be appreciated.
Thanks, Dett

Sep 30, 2004 | 06:42 PM

Big Dave

Senior User

Joined: Aug 2003

Posts: 127

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From: Layton UT

I really like the Rancho RS9000. They are about 80 bucks each, but offer a ride selectability **** that lets you adjust the firmness.
New shocks aren't going to cure a sagging rear end (ha ha). Sounds like you need a combination of new shocks and helper springs (Helwig makes pretty good ones) to level out your truck under load.

Sep 30, 2004 | 06:49 PM

ranger429

Logistics Pro

Joined: May 2003

Posts: 4,238

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From: Northern Illinois

That is correct, shock's won't help you out there. Get an add a leaf or go with the air bag. I am not real big on air shock's myself BUT they can be used to pump up the rear a bit to "level" out your ride

Oct 1, 2004 | 01:57 PM

Dett

Thread Starter

Junior User

Joined: Feb 2003

Posts: 63

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From: Southern Utah

Thanks for the adivce. I will look into getting an extra spring or two. How difficult of a job is it to add helper springs? Do the springs have to be removed first or are the helper springs added on to them? I have never put helper springs on before.
Thanks,
Dett

Oct 1, 2004 | 05:35 PM

Kista20

Elder User

Joined: May 2003

Posts: 530

Likes: 1

From: Harrisonburg, VA

If your leafs are already wore out then it would be a good idea to get new ones. If you do decide to take out your leafs check the bushings to see if they're wore out. I have a 95 f150 4x4 w/ 4 leafs and my truck sags a little on the passenger side even when it's empty, but my leafs are wore out and on the passenger side the bottom leaf on the one end isn't connected so it's sticking out straight. I installed new rancho rsx shocks and it really helps at least I can put some weight without it sqautting too bad. I ordered heavy duty leaf springs from JCWhitney that have 5 leafs and that should be comming in monday, so that will give me something to do after work next week.