How Much Space Should There Be Between SumoSprings and the Axle Pad on 2020 GMC Sierra 1500?

Updated 12/02/2025 | Published 10/03/2022

Question:

When installing this product, should there be a gap between the SumoSpring and the axel pad? If there is no space and constant contact, will this impact my ride quality?

asked by: Mike

Expert Reply:

When the SumoSprings Solo Custom Helper Springs item # SS65FR are installed on your 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 you will have a 1/2" - 1" of clearance with no additional cargo weight. This allows for you to have a comfortable ride when you are unloaded. You won't even notice you have the springs installed.

The SumoSprings item # SS65FR does include an additional 1" spacer and longer mounting bolts that will allow you to add preload to your springs. This will cause your axle pad and the spring to constantly come into contact and affect your ride quality.

If your main use is towing or you are always carrying around a loaded truck bed then you will probably want the spacer installed. If your GMC is your daily driver and it is not a work truck I recommend leaving a space between the spring and the axle pad.

expert reply by: Jerred H

Larry

11/27/2025

Hi Jerred, I install the Sumosprings on my Trailer. The recommended SS was the blue ones. There was about a half inch gap between the spring and the frame. When towing the trailer it had an excessive bouncing up and down. I never had that before. Does it need a bigger gap? I have the underslung axle/leaf springs.

Jerred H.

12/1/2025

@Larry The SumoSprings Trailer Helper Springs w/ Line Relocation Bracket item # TSS-106-40 need to be preloaded to function correctly. The manufacturer recommends 1/4" - 1/2". There shouldn't be a gap at all. Did you use the included spacer?

Larry

12/1/2025

@JerredH Hi Jerred, If the manufacturer recommends 1/4-1/2” gap, why are you recommending no gap at all?

Jerred H.

12/2/2025

@Larry You're asking a question about trailer SumoSprings item # TSS-106-40 on a page about vehicle SumoSprings item # SS65FR. They're different. In the instructions for the SumoSprings item # TSS-106-40, you purchased, the manufacturer recommends 1/4" - 1/2" or preload. That means there has to be weight constantly on the springs or your trailer is going to bounce like a basketball off of them. So again I am asking, did you use the included spacer?