Difference Between SumoSprings and Firestone Helper Springs for Motorhome on 2004 Ford E450 Chassis

Updated 12/02/2020 | Published 11/30/2020

Products Featured in This Question

SumoSprings Maxim Custom Helper Springs - Rear Axle

(374)

$791.99

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

(3203)

$594.12

Question:

Looking for suspension improvement for my Motor Home Ford E-450 chassis 2004 rear what is available. tell me about Sumo Springs vs Air bags. Thanks

asked by: John L

Expert Reply:

The primary difference between the SumoSpring Maxim Helper Springs such as part # SSR-106-47-1 and the Firestone Ride-Rite air helper springs, part # F2153 is that the air helper springs are adjustable, you can add or remove air pressure from the system to adjust the ride firmness. The SumoSprings Maxim isn't adjustable.

If the vehicle in question were a pickup truck that would carry varying loads in the bed, I'd be more inclined to recommend the Ride-Rite air helper springs, so that the pressure in the air bags could be increased or decreased according to the load carried, but for a motorhome this adjustability isn't really necessary as the amount of weight carried won't vary much. For your application, I'd recommend the SumoSprings # SSR-106-47-1 which would work great as long as there's at least 7 inches of clearance between the inside tire sidewall and the vehicle frame. The springs would install using existing holes, so there's no drilling required and no air lines or bags that could possibly leak. In addition to adding support, the SumoSprings will help reduce sway and body roll during turns.

I've linked to a demonstration video for the Firestone Ride Ride air helper springs and an install video for the SumoSprings Maxim helper springs.

expert reply by: Mike L