Recommended Suspension Enhancement for 2016 Ford F-150 with 1,500 Pound Trailer Tongue Weight  

Question:

Expert Reply:

The 1,000 pound capacity SumoSprings Solo Custom Helper Springs # SSR-117-40 for 4 Wheel Drive and # SSR-116-40 for 2 Wheel Drive referenced in your question will offer a smoother empty ride in your 2016 Ford F-150 than a higher rated alternative spring. It is important though to keep in mind that any weight coming from behind the rear axle of your F-150 and from the trailer hitch itself should also be considered when choosing a suspension enhancement system, as this will be included to the weight that is pushing down on the rear axle. With this in mind, a 1,000 pound capacity system, while providing a smoother empty ride, may do very little to improve the ride when towing your trailer that has a 1,500 tongue weight by itself.

I recommend going with the SumoSprings Solo Custom Helper Springs # SSR-117-47 if you have a 4 Wheel Drive Model or # SSR-116-47 if you have 2 Wheel Drive. The 1,500 pound capacity will do a much better job at improving the ride when towing your trailer by helping to absorb bumps and shocks as well as keeping your vehicle level. The SumoSprings design does offer a better empty ride in general due to their softer spring material, so you should not feel too much difference when not towing.

I also recommend looking at the RoadActive Suspension Kit, # RAS3611-Y for 4 Wheel Drive and # RAS3611-B for 2 Wheel Drive. These have a higher capacity of 2,000 pounds but will not have any effect on the empty ride quality in your F-150. This system is very easy to install with no drilling or cutting and will convert the basic leaf springs on your vehicle into mechanically active suspension. I have attached a video demonstration of this system so you can get a better idea as to how it works.

expert reply by: Chris R

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