Upgrading suspension
 

I have a "97 F-150 flareside and am looking to put a truck camper in it. They recommend using a F-250 since they weigh over 2000 lbs. & require heavier springs. I was wondering if there's a way I can install additional springs or if there's a kit that will bolt on for camping but I can remove for normal driving.

You cannot make up for an F250 with springs.
Your rear axle is to light,
You brake swept area is smaller,
Your gross loading on the rear axle will be exceeded plus other parameters like tire size and load capacity.
I know it's tempting but don't do it. You will be well over loaded by the time you include passengers and camper items.
You blow a tire at 60 mph and you all will go on your heads.
Good luck.

I was tempted to try this with my 97 F150, but it's just not possible. Even the super light campers are too much. I know it's easy to say buy a new truck, but honestly if you must have a camper do not consider anything less than an F350 (preferably Dually IMHO).
I am considering getting one of those pickup bed tents... They are pretty cool.

If you are planning on truck camping, you might want to take a look at StableLoads for your suspension. Many truck camper manufacturers endorse Torklift’s StableLoads as a go-to suspension upgrade because they drastically reduce sway and improve handling while loaded. You also mentioned wanting to return to your normal ride – the lower quick-disconnect StableLoads have the ability to engage and disengage, allowing you that feature.

Recently we went to a truck camper rally and had folks test the product with the ‘StableLoad Challenge’ – we took two identical trucks but installed StableLoads on one…then put 2,800 pounds of gravel in the back. If you have a minute, take a look at what happened: LINK

Torklift Sheryl

I watched the video, pretty impressive. What do you guys think?

Joe, just a comment so you take it for whatever value it may have.
An F150 is legally rated at a max gross loadings no matter what is done to the suspension. That does not change legally unless you have the change applied as registered to the state.
All this has implication should there be an accident and a lawyer goes after the fact that a truck was over loaded or even modified.
Then there is insurance that could become an issue under the circumstances.
What i'm saying is the video may be impressive but it does not address the legality of it on the 'road' should there be an issue.
Just wanted to bring this up because most everyone never thinks about the whole situation and why there are ratings applied to vehicles and what shows up on registration cards.
Good luck.

Yeah your right. I wouldn't be comfortable with that set-up. I'm leaning toward a class B /rv. Thanks for the insight, I never thought about that & in this litigious world we live in its important.