Leveling Out a 2017 Ford F-150 Under a Heavy Load with Suspension Enhancements

Updated 12/03/2020 | Published 12/01/2020

Products Featured in This Question

SumoSprings Solo Custom Helper Springs - Rear Axle

(2256)

$347.99

SumoSprings Solo Custom Helper Springs - Rear Axle

(2256)

$331.99

Timbren Front Suspension Enhancement System

(665)

$269.36

Question:

Hello, I have a Coachmen Apex 259BHSS. Though the trailer’s dry weight is only about 5500lbs and is maybe 5650lbs with propane, spare tire and battery, its hitch weight is measured at 840lbs. My tow vehicle is an f150 rated to tow 10600lbs but with only 1523 lbs payload. So the trailer will be a little over half of the truck’s tow rating. But with the weight of my family and tongue weight, the payload capacity of the truck will be pretty near to max. I have a weight distribution setup designed for 1200lbs. and a slide type anti sway. A few questions: #1 while the truck doesn’t look saggy in back, it sits close to level vs unloaded where the truck has a forward tilt. So the rear leaf springs are clearly compressing about 1.5” more than the front coils. Maybe this is how Ford designed it...dunno. Would Timbrens or Sumos work to keep things steadier in this situation? Not to support the load, just to keep it handling well with less of the trailer-driving-the-truck feeling #2 With my weight distribution setup, would front Timbrens also be beneficial?

asked by: Mike M

Expert Reply:

Suspension enhancements are a great way to level out your 2017 Ford F-150 (or bring it back to the unloaded height).

Of course, with a heavy load in the back, these enhancements won't put them at exactly the truck's unloaded height, but it will come close.

For the rear, I recommend the SumoSprings Helper Springs, part # SSR-117-47. These jounce-style springs require less maintenance than air springs like the Timbrens, making them much more convenient. They're also much easier to install. I've linked to a video installation of these springs. In it, you can see how they not only improve the ride quality, but also bring the truck back to balance.

Those are for the 4-wheel drive model of the F-150. If you have a 2-wheel drive, use part # SSR-116-47.

As for front Timbrens, part # TFF150G, I don't think you need to get these unless you are planning on towing a snowplow or something in the front. These won't help too much with towing behind the truck even with consideration to the load.