Posted 2017-03-06 3:10 PM (#169490) Subject: Air Bags vs. Overload Springs
Regular
Posts: 66 Location: Western US
Hello...I have a 2012 RAM 1-ton dually. Put airbags on it when it was new. One airbag failed in the first two years, but was w/in warranty so at least I didn't have to pay for that. Late fall, the compressor that refills the bags went out. Was looking at them last night, because felt something funny....one of them is no longer attached to the axle (or whatever it is that it attaches to on the bottom side). So....that's a long way of saying I haven't been all that thrilled. These are Firestone brand, and were professionally installed. I've had them on other trucks, with heavier trailers, and didn't have this much trouble. Was just going to repair /replace the existing system, but....now I'm re-evaluating. At the minimum I know have to replace the compressor ($700+) and pay for a repair to the "broken" bag. It's possible I'd have to replace the broken bag, so that would be even more. Wondering if the springs would be a better way to go. Truck is only used to tow with, and current trailer isn't that heavy....3H 10' LQ SilverLite....8500 lbs empty. I haul two horses, some hay, tack and a fair amount of crap in the LQ. There's a possibility I'll be getting a different trailer....it would be a bit heavier....around 11,700 lbs empty, 3H 12' LQ. Looking for advise on which way to go. Thanks in advance!!!
Posted 2017-03-06 5:50 PM (#169495 - in reply to #169490) Subject: RE: Air Bags vs. Overload Springs
Regular
Posts: 66 Location: Western US
I've always had a little bit of "bounce" when I've used airbags....the heavier the trailer, the more bounce.....regardless of how much air pressure is in the bags.
Posted 2017-03-07 1:48 PM (#169505 - in reply to #169490) Subject: RE: Air Bags vs. Overload Springs
Expert
Posts: 5870 Location: western PA
Highly recommend the Timbrens. Have used them for years with zero problems. Thay can be installed to not affect the original ride, are less expensive than bags and require no maintenance.. They have a much higher capacity than overload springs.
Posted 2017-03-07 3:07 PM (#169510 - in reply to #169490) Subject: RE: Air Bags vs. Overload Springs
Regular
Posts: 56 Location: Shawnee, Oklahoma
I had airbags on my previous 1 ton Dodge diesel and I was not impressed. My current Dodge has the Supersprings instead and I think they are superior to airbags. I have the heavy duty ones because I sometimed have to pull big loads. The Timbrens are also outstanding, and they are the very best system for a horse trailer too.
Posted 2017-03-08 9:19 AM (#169519 - in reply to #169490) Subject: RE: Air Bags vs. Overload Springs
Hello, One more vote for Timbrens. low cost, zero maintenance, long lasting. when used for intermittent towing will never wear out.
am aware of a local delivery co. uses them on trucks loaded (overloaded) every day and they replace about every 3 or 4 years.
I have a set of the DR3500CA for the rear. they fit 2003 to 2015( pls. confirm yourself on line) had them on a 2008 Ram Mega cab one ton dually for about nine months of use (Sold truck). hauled four times, they are like new. paid $317 new- will sell for $150. I can send private message with additional accessories also removed from truck prior to selling if interested. located in eastern region of north-central US.
Air Bags vs. Overload Springs
