Are Air Springs or Helper Springs Better For Sag When Towing a 5th Wheel With a 2008 Ford F-250

Expert Reply:

The decision between an air ride system or helper springs should be made based on how you will be using your 2008 Ford F-250 Super Duty.

Air bags are a good option if you tow your fifth wheel trailer occasionally and do a lot of hauling with varying load weights. I would recommend using the Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs, # F2550, as these air bags will work with a fifth hitch installed in your truck bed. Air springs should be manually adjusted for each load using an air compressor. We also offer air compressors like the Firestone Level Command Compressor, # F2097.

If your truck is typically under a constant load such as a heavy tool box or you tow your trailer frequently, then helper springs like the SumoSprings Custom Helper Springs, # SSR-102, that you referenced will work well. You may also want to take a look at the Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System, # TFR250SDF. One advantage that the helper springs have over air bags is convenience. Once they are installed they do not require any adjustments and will assist with any type of load that you have in your truck bed.

For your situation I would recommend helper springs simply for the convenience factor, but if you only tow your fifth wheel occasionally and do not use your truck bed very often then you may be interested in the air springs.

I have attached a video of our technician installing the Timbren springs in a 2005 Ford F-250 for you to check out. It should give you an idea on how the helper springs will install.

expert reply by: John H