Suspension Enhancement Recommendation for a 2011 Dodge Ram 1500 Quad Cab Short Bed  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Basically, the truck is only rated for a certain amount and adding suspension enhancement will not increase the towing capacity or payload. Adding suspension enhancement will just help with ride quality, leveling the vehicle when under load, and it will help protect the suspension.

Suspension enhancement is still a good idea for the reasons I have listed above. Since you will be towing a 5th wheel trailer which is a load that does not shift and has a constant weight more or less, I would go with a system like the Timbren Springs, # TDR1500DQ.

The Timbren systems are ideal for this type of application. Since the load is pretty much constant and you will not need to level it side to side, then a fixed system like Timbren would work well.

If you do plan to carry loads that vary in weight, can shift, or are heavier on one side of the truck than the other side, air springs would be a better choice because you can level the bed side to side.

If you need a recommendation for a 5th wheel hitch and installation kit, I recommend the Semi-Custom, # RP30035-386. This kit fits all cab options of the 2011 Dodge Ram. For a hitch, you will need a slider for a short bed to give you additional clearance to make tight turns.

There are several capacities available. You will want to choose one that has a higher capacity that what your trailer weighs. I have included a link to the hitch options we have. A round tube slider will offer more travel (12 inches) than a square slider (10 inches).

If your trailer is very wide (more than 96 inches wide at the overhang) you may need a Sidewinder and stationary hitch. There is a formula you can follow so you can determine if a Sidewinder will be needed. I have included a link to our Sidewinder main page for you that will show you how to measure.

expert reply by: Michael H

0