Solution for Rear-End Sag in 2012 Ford F-350 4X4 Pulling 16K 5th Wheel Trailer

Updated 06/10/2014 | Published 06/08/2014

Products Featured in This Question

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

(3014)

$575.38

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

(3014)

$627.91

Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System

(6326)

$398.07

Question:

I am pulling a 16000 lb 5th wheel trailer with a 2012 Ford F350 4x4.. the rear end of the truck is riding a little low.. which product would you recommend..Timbrea rear suspension..TFR 250DSG As I am a fulltime RVer I am on a budget, but still require safety and quality... The Timbrea looking at the part # seems to be for a F250.. Thanking you in advanced for you help in this matter..

asked by: Fred F

Helpful Expert Reply:

Suspension enhancement kits such as the Firestone Air Springs and the Timbren and SuperSprings jounce springs that you referenced are intended primarily to support heavy cargo loads in the truck bed, but you will still get some benefit when towing your 5th wheel by giving the rear suspension some additional support.

If you often remove your 5th wheel hitch to haul uneven heavy cargo loads then the higher cost and installation complexity of a Firestone Air Spring system may be worthwhile; if not the Timbren or SuperSprings rubber jounce springs will be a more cost-effective choice and also offer easier installation and zero maintenance.

If your 2012 F-350 4X4 is a diesel, the correct Firestone kit is # F2597. If your truck has a gasoline engine the correct kit is # F2550. The correct Timbren kit is part # TFR350SDF.

Please note that none of these kits will increase the vehicle's weight capacity. For reference I have linked two articles on suspension kits that may be helpful to you.

expert reply by: Adam R