Suspension Enhancement for 2018 Ram 1500 to Reduce Rear Squat

Published 11/14/2018

Question:

I have a 2018 Ram 1500 with 20 inch tires. I pull a 17 ft Coachman using a Blue Ox Sway Pro weight distribution hitch for a 500 lb. tongue weight. There is significant lowering of the truck bumper even though the tow vehicle and the trailer are evenly distributed. I have noticed a little sway. Can I raise the bed of the pickup using the Timbren or should I look at an Air Lift spring support system? And a followup question: Do I need to use spacers from Timbren because of the lift of the vehicle.

asked by: Edward B

Expert Reply:

The Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System # TDR1500DQ referenced in your question will do a really nice job of reducing that rear squat you're getting on your Ram 1500 when hooked up to the Coachman Trailer. Jounce-style springs like this will provide a bit more support than an air spring system so this will be your best option.

I have attached an installation video on the 2017 Ram 1500 that you can use for reference. You will not need any additional spacers when installing the kit on your truck that is equipped with larger 20 inch tires.

Before adding suspension enhancement though, I do recommend making sure that your existing Blue Ox Weight Distribution System is properly adjusted and rated for your setup. A weight distribution system may not get you completely back level but a properly rated system should get you pretty close.

You will want to make sure that your total tongue weight, which includes the loaded tongue weight of your trailer along with any added cargo weight coming from behind the rear axle of your Ram, falls comfortably within the tongue weight range of your Blue Ox system.

expert reply by: Chris R