Hellwig EZ-990 HE62FR vs HE85VR Differences and Best Fit for 2003 Dodge Ram Van 3500  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Hi Mitchell, great question because this is one of those details that can be really confusing at first glance, and I’m glad you asked before ordering.

The difference between the Hellwig EZ-990 models part # HE62FR and part # HE85VR comes down to fitment, specifically the width of the leaf springs they’re designed to mount to. The HE85VR is designed for 3-inch wide leaf springs, while the HE62FR fits 2-1/2 inch springs. Both kits provide the same type of load support, so performance-wise they’re very similar, but getting the correct width match is what ensures everything installs properly and sits the way it should.

A 6/1 leaf pack refers to the number of leaves in the stack, which tells us you’ve got a heavier-duty setup, but it does not tell us the width of the spring. So a 6/1 pack does not automatically mean it’s a 3-inch spring. You can have a thicker pack that is either 2-1/2 inches or 3 inches wide, and that width is what determines which kit will fit correctly.

The leaf spring width is measured straight across a single leaf from side to side, typically right around the center bolt area where everything is stacked together. That gives you the true width the helper spring brackets need to match.

If you’d like, I can help you confirm once you have that measurement. Are you mainly trying to reduce sag when loaded or improve overall ride when you’ve got weight in the van?

expert reply by: Heather A

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Mitchell C.

5/6/2026

My leaf springs are 2-1/2 inches wide. I will order Hellwig EZ-990 Helper Spring model HE62FR. At this time, I am primarily interested in these springs as mitigation for body roll during highway driving due to crosswinds and truck wakes. Later, they will help me with pulling a trailer that I am considering. My 2003 Dodge RAM Van is outfitted as a camper van with a fiberglass top and various appliances. It is a heavy vehicle by itself, and its broad sides make it susceptible to body roll. I have considered the Roadmaster RM-1129-111 rear anti-sway bar for this purpose, but I would need to make several modifications to my vehicle in order to install them. I believe these springs will provide some body roll mitigation without making any modifications the vehicle - they are bolt-on items.

Heather A.

5/6/2026

@MitchellC That sounds like a plan, and your expectations are right on. These helper springs will help stabilize the rear and take some of that float out of the suspension, which can reduce how much the van leans and reacts to crosswinds and passing trucks. They won’t replace a true anti-sway bar, but they do a nice job of tightening things up especially on a heavier van like yours with the fiberglass top. Hellwig is a well-known brand with a strong track record. Let me know how the install goes, and if you run into anything or have questions I'm still here!