Suspension
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Freshman User
Joined: Nov 2005
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Suspension
I need to beaf up my rear suspension on my 1983 bronco 5.8. I am thinking of puting heavy duty 3/4 ton leaf springs in it, but also have heard of using air bags. Has anyone had to deal with this situation before? Would i be better off using air bags. They are really expensive so i want to know if it would be undrivable using heavy duty 3/4 ton or even 1 ton springs.
thanks
thanks
Senior User
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 217
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From: Virginia
I also need to beef up the rear suspension in my '84 F-250. I've been looking at bigger leaf springs mostly but stumbled across the Firestone Ride Rite air bags and did a little research on other boards. So far they seem to be preferred method due to their adjustability. There is another product out there called Timbrens. Cheaper than air bags, but no adjustments. They are basically a heavy rubber plug that goes in between the axle and the frame and help the suspension from sagging. From what I've read, they can make the ride worse if the truck is empty. So it's up to you.
I can tell you with my F-250 empty, the rear rides very stiff.
If you're going to put some permanent weight in the back of your Bronco, then bigger leaf springs will probably be fine. But if you are constantly loading and unloading like me, then the air bags are probably the way to go.
I'm basing this on what I've read from other people.
I can tell you with my F-250 empty, the rear rides very stiff.
If you're going to put some permanent weight in the back of your Bronco, then bigger leaf springs will probably be fine. But if you are constantly loading and unloading like me, then the air bags are probably the way to go.
I'm basing this on what I've read from other people.
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Freshman User
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would it be a hard install for a add a leaf package, or would i need to take it to a suspension shop to get it done. I am a body man so i think i would have all the right tools, but i cant be sure
Lead Driver
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 9,182
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From: Gateway to the West
Add-a-leaf setups are pretty straight forward. usually requires removing the axle from the rear springs, slipping the add-a-leafs in place and bolting it all back together with longer U-bolts which are usually provided to compensate for the change in thickness of the springs with the added leaf. Thats a very simplified explanation....manufacturer's instructions are our friend!
Senior User
Joined: Jun 2003
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From: Tulsa, OK
There are also helper springs available which install on top of the existing springs, these wouldn't require disassembly of your existing spring pack making it a much easier install. Hellwig's Load Pro springs are progressive rate, they claim that your unloaded ride isn't affected. I can't recommend them because I've never used them, just considered getting them in the past, but they might be worth looking at for your situation. Also, add-a-leafs will increase your ride height and you may not want what.
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