Comparing Timbren and Firestone Suspension Enhancement for a 2003 Ford F-250

Updated 08/29/2011 | Published 08/28/2011

Products Featured in This Question

Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System

(6576)

$398.07

Firestone Air Command Heavy Duty Air Compressor - Analog - Dual Path

(367)

$823.60

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

(3086)

$660.96

Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System

(6576)

$269.36

Question:

I have a F250 crew cab 6 bed srw 2003. Im pulling a 5th wheel toy hauler, 30. Whats the difference between the TFR 250 and the 350 other than $ 100 and which application would be better, TFR or F2550 ?

asked by: William G

Expert Reply:

The main difference between Timbren suspension enhancement # TFR250SDE and # TFR350SDE is capacity. The 250 model has a 6,000 pound capacity and the 350 model has an 8,600 pound capacity. Since the pin weight of a 5th wheel is not normally as high as 6,000 pounds, the 250 system should work well.

However, there is an issue. Most 5th wheel trailer hitches have brackets mounted to the outside of each frame rail. These brackets will interfere with a suspension system that installs on the same side of the frame rails. This includes both systems listed above. This is unless there is already a factory bump stop mounting bracket and the 5th wheel mounting brackets go around it. I have included a link to a video of the 250 system that shows the bump stomp mounting bracket.

Timbren systems are great for improving suspension and handling and also reduce road shock and increase roll stability. But if you carry different size loads and need to level the bed side to side, you would want to go with a Firestone system.

The Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs, # F2550, are compatible with a 5th wheel hitch because they install on the inside and bottom of the frame rails. When used with the Firestone Level Command II, # F2219, you can level the bed side to side. I have included a link to the installation details for the springs and Level Command for you.

I have also included a link to our suspension FAQ articles for you.