RoadActive Suspension or Timbrens For 2011 Chevy Silverado 2500HD Towing 12k 5th Wheel
Updated 01/05/2026 | Published 09/22/2024
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
I have a 2011 Chevy 2500HD. The truck is only used to haul my 12,000# fifth wheel. I go camping with the fifth wheel maybe 6 or 7 times a year and haul it 1000 miles at a time. I’m not concerned about my unloaded ride quality. Would you favor the road active or the timbren based on this information?
asked by: Randy K
Expert Reply:
Hi Randy,
Between the Timbrens and the RAS, easily the best choice is the RoadActive suspension, though keep in mind there are a couple different fits for your 2011 Chevy Silverado 2500 depending on if you have overload springs or not:
- WITH Overload Springs: RoadActive Suspension Custom Leaf Spring Enhancement Kit # RAS3611-CHD
- WITHOUT Overload Springs: RoadActive Suspension Custom Leaf Spring Enhancement Kit # RAS3611-HD
The reason I like the RAS kit more than the Timbrens is because even if unloaded ride isn't an issue for you, the RAS provides more benefit. Rather that only engaging with a super heavy load like the Timbrens, the RAS is always reinforcing your Chevy's suspension. So when you are towing your 5th wheel, the load that would usually go to your leaf springs will instead be transferred to the RAS kit, and your OEM leaf springs will work normally.
So you'll see a greater benefit to your Chevy's handling and traction when you're towing your 5th wheel trailer with the RAS compared to the Timbrens.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
RoadActive Suspension Custom Leaf Spring Enhancement Kit - Heavy Duty
- Vehicle Suspension
- Towing/Load Leveling
- Leaf Springs and Helper Springs
- Suspension Only
- Helper Springs
- Heavy Duty
- Rear Axle Suspension Enhancement
- RAS
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Q&A: What is Best Rear Suspension Enhancement for 2026 GMC Sierra 3500 Denali Towing 5th Wheel Camper
- Search Results: timbren vehicle suspension
- Search Results: wheel chocks
- Search Results: etrack wheel chock
- Video: Installing the Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System on a 2025 GMC Sierra 3500
- Search Results: bump stops
- Q&A: Way To Prevent Jarring Ride 2020 Chevy 3500 Dually
- Shop: RoadActive Suspension Custom Leaf Spring Enhancement Kit - Heavy Duty
- Video: Let’s Check Out the RoadActive Suspension Custom Leaf Spring Enhancement Kit-RAS34FR
- Video: A Closer Look at the etrailer E Track Board Holders
- Shop: Timbren Suspension Enhancement System - Severe Service - Rear Axle
- Shop: Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System
- Q&A: Differences Between The RoadActive Suspension Systems For A 2023 GMC Sierra 2500
- Shop: RoadActive Suspension Custom Leaf Spring Enhancement Kit - Heavy Duty
- Q&A: Can RoadActive and Timbren Suspension Kits be Used for a 2025 GMC Sierra 2500 In-Bed Camper
- Q&A: Will the RoadActive Leaf Spring Kit # RAS3611-CHD Provide Support with a 3,400 Vertical Weight?
- Q&A: Recommended Helper Spring Solution for 2020 Chevy Silverado 3500 With Slide In Camper
- Q&A: Recommended Rear Suspension Enhancement For 2016 GMC Sierra 3500 DRW To Give Smoother Ride
- Shop: Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs - Double Convoluted - Rear Axle
- Shop: Flint Hill Goods Wheel Chock w/ Eyebolt - Solid Rubber
- Shop: Erickson E-Chock Wheel Chock for E Track - Powder Coated Steel - Qty 1
- Shop: Towing Mirrors
- Search Results: ras3611~yhd
- Video: Breaking Down the CIPA Universal Dual Lens Towing Mirrors
Robin H.
1/5/2026
Hey Randy, how did things turn out with the RoadActive Suspension on your Chevy 2500HD when towing your fifth wheel? It’d be great to hear if you noticed an improvement in handling and traction on those long camping trips. Your update could make it easier for others comparing the RAS and Timbrens.