Comparing Rubber Spring and Air Bag Suspension for 2018 Ford F-150 For Towing Support

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Question:

I want to beef up the rear suspension of my 2018 Ford F-150, which kit should I get? I see there are air bag styles and styles that look like rubber bumpers. Is there advantage to either?

asked by: Ken

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Expert Reply:

We have suspension enhancement kits that are a confirmed fit and will work great on your 2018 Ford F-150. Like you mentioned there are air bag kits like the Firestone part # F2582 which have the advantage of giving you total adjustability on how much suspension support you want. The downside is that you have to maintain air pressure in the air bags and have a bit more involved of an install.

The other option is the rubber spring kits like the Timbren part # TFR1504E which have the advantage of never needing any maintenance and a much simpler install. You install them once and you never have to worry about them. They basically are there when you need them and aren't when not needed. The disadvantage is that you don't get to tailor the support. It's a one-size fits all setup. It works really well for most people, but some might want more support or some might think the ride quality is rougher when unloaded. A lot of people swear by the Timbrens though so that would be where I'd steer you if you are inclined. Unless you are very picky about the ride quality of your truck and don't mind having to inflate the air bags.

A compressor kit like part # F2158 will make inflating and maintaining air pressure very easy. But it's additional cost and another more involved install.

Install videos are attached for both setups for you to check out as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C

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Answer 1

Hey Dave, The Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System #TFR1504E you referenced is a fit for your F-150, but it has a 6,000lb capacity so it'll give you an terrible ride unloaded ride quality. These would be great if you're heavy hauling…

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Answer 2

Yes, it is Ron! The Weigh Safe Hitch w/ Built-In Scale for 2" Hitch item #WS96ZR, you were looking at is part of the Weigh Safe 2.0 line. It has the new glycerin-filled gauge, the rounded corners, and the redesigned slide. What kind of trailer…

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Answer 3

Hi Eric! I recommend installing the Timbren Rear SES #TFR1504E before the dealer sets up your weight distribution hitch. With the trailer hooked up, the Timbren SES will help limit rear squat, so you want them installed first to make sure the WDH is…

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Answer 4

Thanks for letting us help Michael. For the leaf springs, I'd recommend the 4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring #e54SR. This is a 25-1/4-inch double-eye spring that's a great fit for your 3,500-lb axle. If you haven't already planned on it, I'd…

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Answer 5

Hey there Steve; thanks for writing in and when it comes to body roll and sway for your 2018 Ford F-150, the better option is the RoadActive Suspension Custom Leaf Spring Enhancement Kit, with the right one depending on if your F-150 is 2WD or 4WD: -…

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Answer 6

The main difference between the Timbren Suspension Enhancement System #TFRTT1504E and the Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System #TFR1504E on your 2022 Ford F-150 is going to be the weight capacity and purpose the system is intended for. The…

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Answer 7

Both of the kits you mentioned are a fit for your 2016 Ford F-150. The difference is that the part #TFR1504E has a 6,000 lb capacity and the part #TFRTT1504E has a 7,000 lb capacity. You would want to go with the lower rated spring as it will be a…

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Answer 8

Hey Gregory, that's really good information. You’ve got a few options, but I wouldn’t jump straight to replacing the leaf springs on a half-ton for that size trailer. Since you’re using a Curt weight distribution hitch, that should be doing most…

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Answer 9

Hi Jeff, The K-Source Snap & Zap Custom Towing Mirrors part #KS69NQ will work with your Lariat mirrors while allowing you to retain the use of the camera and side lights! These mirrors are specifically designed to match the contours of the side…

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Answer 10

The Firestone Ride Rite kit part #F2582 would be a great option for an air suspension kit that fits your truck. Then for a compressor kit part #F2610 would work great.

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Comparing Rubber Spring and Air Bag Suspension for 2018 Ford F-150 For Towing Support

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