bing tracking image
Q & A Icon

Do I Want Air Lift Coil Springs and Timbrens for Towing with My 2020 RAM 1500 Laramie?  

Updated 01/15/2026 | Published 01/12/2026

Question:

I have a 2020 RAM 1500 Laramie 4 wheel drive. Would you recommend the air lift 1000HD coil spring airbags combined with the timbren bump stops to improve trailer towing? Or should I just consider the airlift 1000HD?

0

Expert Reply:

Hello Mark,

Great question. Timbrens are a solid product, and I do like them a lot in the right situation. I typically only recommend them for vehicles that are under a constant load, like a work truck that always has equipment in the bed. When the truck is unloaded, Timbrens can sometimes cause a noticeably harsher ride since they are always engaged. I am not sure where you are located, but here in Missouri we might as well be driving on one giant pothole, so ride quality definitely matters.

A really good place to start would be the Firestone Coil-Rite Air Helper Springs - Rear Axle # F4130. These give you adjustability, which is the big advantage. You can run very low air pressure when you are not towing to keep the factory ride quality, then add air only when you hook up the trailer. For most people, this setup alone makes a noticeable improvement in rear-end sag and overall stability.

If you wanted to pair them with an onboard compressor, the Air Lift WirelessONE Compressor System for Air Helper Springs - Remote - Bluetooth - Single Path # AL25980 would be a great option.

I have to ask though, how heavy is the trailer trailer you are towing? What is the tongue weight?

expert reply by:
0
Kate F
Andy B. profile picture

Andy B.

1/14/2026

I have the same truck. The the airlift 1000HD work great for my 29 foot camper. At 45-50psi, truck bed full, camper loaded, full water as well, my truck stays level. I'd recommend a weight distribution hitch instead if you have a small camper or don't load it with water before you go. If it's bigger, do both. I will say that the instructions look easy but I had my mechanic buddy put them on for me at his shop. He said he'd love to see someone install these at home. Took him 3 hours in the shop.

Kate F. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Kate F.

1/14/2026

@AndyB Thanks for the response and pointers Andy! The bags can be a little tricky to get in the coils. Some at-home install tricks are to support the axle (not the frame) so the coil springs open up, compress the air bags tightly with zip ties or by removing the air, and use soapy water to help slide them into the coils fitting-side up. Route the air lines away from exhaust heat, sharp edges, and moving suspension parts with enough slack for travel, then inflate to about 20–30 psi to seat the bags and check all fittings with soapy water for leaks.
Alan T. profile picture

Alan T.

1/14/2026

2022 Ram 1500 Bighorn. Would definitely agree with Kates analysis. Have had the coil rite air helper springs on the truck for going on 2 years now. I tow a trailer that goes about 4500 lbs loaded and I normally have 400 to 500 lbs of gear in the bed. My empty vrs loaded use is probably about 60-40. Handling is definitely improved, generally run 50 - 60 lbs when loaded and drop the air to 5-10 lbs when empty. They seem to have little or no effect on the empty ride. So far I have had no problems with this product. The installation takes a bit of muscle but can be handled by a reasonably skilled amateur mechanic. I have towed many different trailers, commercial and RV for decades and have always added air helper springs of some type to the trucks and recommend them highly.

Kate F. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Kate F.

1/15/2026

@AlanT Thanks for taking the time to respond Alan!
Lou profile picture

Lou

1/14/2026

I tow a 7k rv with just the airbags on my 2019 Ram Bighorn. It’s all you need

Kate F. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Kate F.

1/15/2026

@Lou Thanks for the response Lou!

Product Page this Question was Asked From


Q & A Icon

Continue Researching

See More Q&A Expert Answers >>