Using Air Bags on 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 When Towing 5th Wheel Trailer

Updated 04/08/2015 | Published 04/07/2015

Question:

Question to you. I have a brand new 2015 chevy 2500. The issue I have is that I need the rear of my truck to sag as much as possible in order to get the nose of the 5th level as possible. This seems pretty common with the new trucks. I would like to improve the ride quality with airbags without raising the rear of the truck. It seems like it may be impossible to get enough air in the bags to improve the ride quality without raising the rear of the truck. I could imagine that without 25-30 psi in the bags it would just act like pogo stick. Any thoughts on this? Thanks.

asked by: Jeff W

Expert Reply:

Air bag kits like the Firestone Ride-Rite Rear Axle Air Helper Spring Kit # F2709 are intended to provide load support with a truck bed cargo load or to reduce sag when hitched to a trailer. Air springs do not so much directly lift the rear end as they simply reduce some of the compression of the rear suspension when under load. This of course depends on the exact load and inflation level.

If your concern is keeping your 5th wheel trailer level when hitched you might check to see whether your trailer's pin box is installed to give you the lowest possible position on the trailer frame. 5th wheel trailer pin box mounting wings typically offer you several height positions for the pin box and that is the best way to keep your trailer level when hitched. Please refer to the linked photo.

You may be able to install a replacement pin box that will give you the height you need to keep the trailer level. Please feel free to let me know the existing pin box brand and part number and I will be happy to check for a replacement that will allow the trailer to remain level when hitched.

expert reply by: Adam R