Timbren vs. Firestone Ride Rite

Updated 07/01/2013 | Published 06/27/2013

Question:

Am waiting for delivery of 2013 F-150, supercab. Will be towing 5th wheel, with max. payload of 1500 lb. Trailer is less than 6500lb, loaded. Im expecting some sag and need to have the truck level when loaded. However, I dont want the stock ride quality stiffened or stance to be raised when NOT loaded. Do you think the Timbren will do the job and not come into play till about 1000lb of payload comes into play? also, if I go Ride Rite, what is the recommended minimum PSI to run when not loaded?

asked by: Ken B

Expert Reply:

The Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System # TFR1504D is designed to engage when a load is put upon your 2013 Ford F-150. The picture shows the basic fundamentals of how the Timbrens work so you can see that when your truck is not loaded, the Timbrens are at full size and when a load is put upon your truck the Timbrens compress.

My technical contact at Ride-Rite confirmed that the psi should be set between 5 and 10 which should not alter your ride or raise your truck when not loaded. The absolute minimum psi rating is 5. One side note to think about is when deciding on an air bag system is to check out the installation directions to verify the attachment points. Some suspension systems do not work with 5th wheel hook ups because they both want to install in the same area.

I have attached two FAQ articles: one is covering Timbren suspension enhancement and the other is covering Firestone air-spring kits.

expert reply by: Lori W