I'm "building" my "ideal" work truck. As a remodel contractor I need tools for all trades on my truck. I found a '92 F-250 X-cab, 7.3 diesel with 71,000 miles on it. It has a BUILT E4OD trans and an ATS turbo kit. Runs like one would expect. I put a utiliy bed on it, and of course a lumber rack. The weight is getting up there (haven't put it on the scale yet) and I reeckon I'll be looking to beef up the rear springs. Seeking input on overload springs vs. air bags... I'm sure there are pros and cons to each. I promise (yeah sure) not to exceed GVWR.

 

Check out the f-350's.Mine has an over load on it from the factory.It looks like it could be beefed up easily if needed,just add another leaf to it or a heavier spring.

 

Keep in mind the axle wt. rating.

 

You can swap in factory F350 overload springs. But I think you will need put in the stops that are on the 350 frame. They are riveted on but if I remember right the holes are predrilled so should be there on your F250.

As far as overloading the axle goes don't worry about it. It's the same axle as they put in the F350's. One of my trucks has an 11000 GVW and I've overloaded it on many occasions no problems at all. The axle can handle the weight just fine as long as you have enough springs in there.

 

I am a contractor also so I know what you are saying, I am building one also.
Any good spring shop can get you an overload spring kit. The frame is factory pre drilled for the spring stops. I bought a set for mine about 5 years ago, the kit came complete with everything except the axle U bolts. When I did mine I got new main springs with two extra leaves and overloads with two extra leaves. I gave something like $230 for the overload kit, $250 for the main springs and I just installed the $70 1999 4" F350 Super Duty rear spring blocks on my 86. The only other cost was 50 dollars for 4 15" U bolts to bolt it all up.
I have never put over 4 1/2 tons on the dump bed though.

I have air bags on the front for when I plow snow.
My thinking is air bags are better for something like the plow. Pump them up when it is on, let the air out when it is off.
I went with the springs on the back because they are there all the time and always ready to work, and I do not have to worry about one blowing out with a load on.

I do wish I had installed the 4" blocks sooner than I did, it puts the drive shaft angle in a much better position with the rear axle.

I also run 20,000 pound plates on it so I am not to much over weight when I tow stuff.
Do make sure your brakes are top notch and check them regularly. Also remember to leave extra room to stop. Here in the WV mountains I leave lots of extra room.