Posted 2016-03-17 8:21 AM (#166453) Subject: Truck shocks and other assistance
New User
Posts: 1
Location: Muscotah, KS
I have a 2006 Dodge 2500 Diesel truck with 30' Trails West with 8' short wall LQ. Empty the trailer weights appx. 9,500 lbs. The truck needs rear shocks, but should I try to beef them up? And if so what brand? Would this be the time to consider air bags? Also, the truck has a lift kit - would this be the time to pull that out? Suggestions? TIA.
Posted 2016-03-17 12:11 PM (#166456 - in reply to #166453) Subject: RE: Truck shocks and other assistance
Expert
Posts: 5870 Location: western PA
Pull the lift kit and return the suspension to stock. You will have more spacing between the bed and goose area of the trailer. You will also improve the towing stability and performance of the truck. Purchase a good grade of shocks. Buying a much heavier grade shock than OEMs will increase the roughness of an unburdened ride. Adding air bags or Timbrens will restore the ride height, but will not add any capacity to the rear axle's weight carrying capability. You may well be at or exceeding your truck's weight limits when towing this trailer loaded. You may not have enough truck to competently carry this trailer.
Posted 2016-03-17 3:31 PM (#166460 - in reply to #166453) Subject: RE: Truck shocks and other assistance
Expert
Posts: 3853 Location: Vermont
You need to determine the ACTUAL pin weight on that rear axle...new shocks, etc will level the trailer, but you still may be OVERWEIGHT when it comes to the GAWR
Posted 2016-03-17 6:41 PM (#166463 - in reply to #166453) Subject: RE: Truck shocks and other assistance
Expert
Posts: 1989 Location: South Central OK
You state that you have these, have you been towing with this setup? Ditch the lift kit, replace rear springs and maybe check front at same time. Most importantly you MUST hit the scales with this trailer...I'd bet a donut you are too heavy on the ball when loaded. How many horses? Roof rack? If you have any doubts ask back here when you get the weight and one of the towing experts here can "crunch" your numbers.
Posted 2016-03-17 10:28 PM (#166465 - in reply to #166453) Subject: RE: Truck shocks and other assistance
Elite Veteran
Posts: 690 Location: missouri
For your, and your horses safety... get at least a dually one ton for a rig like this! Trails West are a heavy steel trailer... you need braking power, and dual wheels. Trust me, we speak from many years of experience, some not so good. It is alot like ordering a 72 ounce steak at that place in Amarillo when you really shoulda had a salad. Good luck to you.. didn't mean to rain on your parade here.
Truck shocks and other assistance
