Installation of Firestone Air Springs on 1999 F-350 with Gooseneck Hitch

Published 11/22/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs - Double Convoluted - Rear Axle

(3017)

$538.35

Curt Double Lock, Flip and Store Underbed Gooseneck Hitch w/ Installation Kit - 30,000 lbs

(708)

$487.31

SumoSprings Solo Custom Helper Springs - Rear Axle

(2257)

$353.99

Question:

Im wanting to install a set of your # F2550 on my 1999 Ford 1 Ton F-350 DRW which tows a 40 ft fifth wheel toy hauler using the following Curt products. Item # C60720 gooseneck hitch, Item # C16210 base plate adapter and Curt Q20 Item # C16130. My truck bed drops approximately 3.5 inch when the fifth wheel is attached and I want to use the air bags to bring the truck back to level. My concern is regarding the single large carriage bolt which attaches the gooseneck hitch to the frame. I believe it is the 1/2 x 1 3/ 4 carriage bolt Photo attached. Does the #F2550 use the same hole as the one used by the gooseneck hitch? Is there ANY modification which needs to be performed on my truck or gooseneck hitch to install the Air Bags? Any additional information would be greatly appreciated.

asked by: James B

Expert Reply:

Your photo was great and captured the exact reason why you would be unable to install the Firestone Air Bags # F2550 along with the Curt Gooseneck Hitch # C60720 you have in your 1999 Ford F-350. The gooseneck is attached to the outside of the frame rails and is blocking the attachment point that the Ride-Rite would need to install.

There is a solution for you to get your F-350 level when towing with your Curt Q 20 # C16130 fifth wheel. The SumoSprings Solo Custom Helper Springs - Rear Axle # SSR-114-54 will help support the weight of your load, reduce the sag you are experiencing and is a drill-free installation. I've added links to a video review as well as a link to a video install of the springs for you to take a look at.

expert reply by: Kyle S