Will Installing Air Springs Affect The Unloaded Ride Quality Of A 1997 Dodge Ram 2500 4x4

Updated 11/25/2024 | Published 11/24/2024

Products Featured in This Question

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

(3008)

$446.92

Hellwig Pro Series Helper Springs - Above Axle

(17)

$468.38

Question:

I have 1997 Dodge 2500 4x4 long bed diesel. The overload springs have been removed and I like the ride and stance. Will these airbags affect the unloaded ride?

asked by: Bryon D

Expert Reply:

Hey Bryon,

Yes, even when the air springs are deflated down to the 5psi users have noted that there is still a difference in the unloaded ride quality. The severity of that difference depends on a lot of different factors, but I've mostly seen complaints from smaller trucks and SUV's which have softer suspensions. Since your older model Ram uses leaf springs you would be a little less likely to notice the difference compared to a newer model with coil springs though.

The Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs # F2071 you were looking at would be a fit for your 1997 Dodge Ram 2500, but it would require that the distance from the outside of the frame to the inside of the tire must be at least 7-1/2" and would block you from being able to install an in-bed hitch.

If you're wanting to avoid affecting your unloaded ride quality a leaf spring enhancement like the Hellwig Pro Series Helper Springs # HE77QR would be a better choice. This only engages as the leaf springs begin to compress under a load. The only drawback here is that you're not getting the precise leveling you can get with an air spring.

expert reply by: Kevin C

F2071 Installed
(click to enlarge)

Bryon

11/25/2024

Thanks Kevin, I do have room enough between the tire and frame but is the fender liner going to need trimming? Also with the overload spring removed there is 6 1/2 inches from the bottom of the frame to the bump stop.

Kevin C.

11/25/2024

@Bryon The Firestone # F2071 is going to mount to the outside of the frame rails and sit on top of the spring stack so depending on how far down the wheel well liner goes you might need to do some trimming. I've attached a picture above of one installed to give you a better idea.