Suspension Products to Correct Minor Rear-End Sag in 2003 GMC Sierra 1500LD Towing 3200-lb Trailer

Updated 01/21/2015 | Published 01/20/2015

Products Featured in This Question

SuperSprings Suspension Stabilizer and Sway Control Kit - OEM Leaf Springs Above Axle

(68)

$454.98

Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System

(7165)

$269.36

Question:

I tow a small camper with my 2003 GMC Sierra 1500. The gross weight of the trailer is 3200lbs with a tongue weight of 400lbs +/-. When hooked up, the rear of truck s about two inches. If you didnt watch it squat, you would never know it did just by looking at it. With weights that low Ive been told weight distribution is not necessary, but the minor sag is something Im concerned about. Should I be? It seems normal to sag a little under load, but if I wanted to eliminate this sag would the super spring part # SSA5MTKT be a good option? Thanks.

asked by: Brian F

Expert Reply:

It is perfectly normal for the rear of a tow vehicle to sag to some degree when hitched to a trailer due to the trailer tongue weight. For this reason it is usually best to have the height of a hitch ball about an inch or so higher than the top of the trailer's coupler (when the trailer is level) to compensate for this normal sag.

The SuperSprings Custom Suspension Stabilizer and Sway-Control Kit # SSA5MTKT that you referenced fits both 2WD and 4WD versions of your truck and will help reduce sag, but these are better suited to issues with both sag and body roll. In your application, with sag being the only concern noted, there is a more cost-effective option that is also easier to install.

Timbren rear suspension kit # TGMRCK15S also fits both 2WD and 4WD versions of your Sierra and will support the rear end when under the tongue weight load from your trailer. Rubber jounce springs like these Timbrens do not affect your ride quality when you're not towing but they do instantly engage when under load to stiffen and support your truck's suspension. They are simple to install (no drilling required - please see the linked video) and carry a limited lifetime warranty.

All such kits are intended to work with a suspension system that is in good working order and none can increase a vehicle's weight capacity. The linked article will give you additional information on Timbren products.

expert reply by: Adam R