weak suspension
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weak suspension
I have a 1979 4 x4 f150 with 82k original miles. I am a building contractor and have a side tool box on the right side of the bed and another one across the across the bed behind the back window. The problem is with all of my tools in the truck it leans to the right side because of the tool box on the side of the truck. What can I do to "beef" up the suspension on the truck?
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From: upstate N Y
You can buy airbags that are filled and help support the weight.These are commonly used on plow trucks. You would want separate lines to each side to allow you to balance the load.A better solution would be to redistribute the weight,either with a toolbox on the left side or some metal plates possibly on the left side.The unbalanced load is doing your truck NO GOOD.
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I'd put firestone (or equivelant) adjustable airbag suspension in the back. That way you can fill up the right side one a little more just to even it up. They're about 250.00 bucks and pretty straight forward to install.
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From: Kiefer, Northeastern Okla
Welcome to FTE joe 19403! I hear you... I practicly had to threaten my guys with bodily harm if they weren't a little more careful how they loaded the tools. Gave up after a while and bought a trailer....
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Hello- Welcome to FTE! Check out the list of tech forums we have on FTE. There is a wealth of information and expertise here to help you. There are a number of links in my sig below to help you also. Have fun! 
Springs sag with age also. Consult a spring shop and get the springs rebuilt. Balance that load with another toolbox on the other side.
Springs sag with age also. Consult a spring shop and get the springs rebuilt. Balance that load with another toolbox on the other side.
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Good overload springs will cost about the same as airbags. Most helper springs are not adjustable and airbags are completely adjustable. It is something to consider when you decide that you really need to do something. Also, the airbags will supply up to 5,000 pounds of overload capicity - not that you are going to get very far in a half ton with over 5,000 pounds in it - a dually no problem, but not your truck. Finally, when you don't need the extra capacity, you just let the air out and your truck rides just as good as it always did. Just curiuos, does this truck sag at all unloaded? If not, then you probably are wasting your time going to a spring shop to get the springs rebuilt if they really don't it. Finally, I agree with torque, helper springs are not that great. Also, they can really make your truck ride harsh when completely unloaded. They can also be very noisey with no/light loads in your pickup.
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Yes after researching the problem you and torque are 100 percent correct. I just had the truck painted and had all of the tool boxes off and it did sit level. Thanks for the info it's greatly appreciated. I am going with the firestone airbags. Thanks to all your input!
Joe
Joe