Posted 2009-09-12 9:01 PM (#110622) Subject: Super springs vs air bags
Member
Posts: 44 Location: albany, ga
I have a F350 Ford and haul a heavy LQ trailer. I would like to add something to help support the rear end of the truck a little more to keep it from squatting when the trailer is on it. I have gotten some info on putting some super springs on it but wanted to see if anyone has used those vs air bags and the pros and cons to both.
Posted 2009-09-12 9:08 PM (#110623 - in reply to #110622) Subject: RE: Super springs vs air bags
Expert
Posts: 1351 Location: Decatur, Texas
I have never heard of super springs, but my opinion I like the air bag set up, can be adjusted for any load condition and DOES NOT give you a harsh ride like some aftermarket spring helpers do! The price maybe a little higher, but you get what youpay for!
Posted 2009-09-13 9:16 AM (#110635 - in reply to #110622) Subject: RE: Super springs vs air bags
Extreme Veteran
Posts: 420 Location: Florida
I had super springs in a ½ ton truck and airbags also in a separate ½ ton truck. I will never go back to airbags they are to misleading and you can get caught up in lifting your truck off the suspension system to compensate for a heavy load which can ultimately will get you into a hazardous stability situation. I liked the super springs but really do not think they are going to give you what you want in a 350 and heavy LQ. IMO you should seek a reputable spring company and discuss adding overload springs that match your LQ. You will be pleasantly surprised how inexpensive this option will be. And they will be tied directly into the original spring pack which again in my opinion is the sensible way to go. I have thought about Timbrens however my truck only drops 3 inches when under the load of our LQ. I figure that is fine and will eventually add additional overloads as I mentioned above as the spring pack weakens.
Posted 2009-09-13 10:31 AM (#110638 - in reply to #110622) Subject: RE: Super springs vs air bags
Expert
Posts: 3802 Location: Rocky Mount N.C.
I know several folks in my area that have F-350's pulling heavy LQ trailers.... They all are using http://www.fsip.com/riderite/ Two of them had them installed same time the hitch was installed at the ford dealer. Seems that alot of the GVWR on the F-350's is up on the front axle. The rears seem to be a little squatty or mushy. The Air bags seemed to correct this problem for my friends.
Posted 2009-09-13 11:07 AM (#110639 - in reply to #110622) Subject: RE: Super springs vs air bags
Member
Posts: 27 Location: Santa Fe, TX
I've also had both and much prefer the SuperSprings over the air bags.....they really helped out on my F250 when I hooked up my trailers and I only had them on the lowest setting...the air bags required too much attention and one of them got a hole in it from going flat and that wasn't covered under the warranty unfortunately. Definitely recommend the SuperSprings and as Horsey1 mentioned, they're idiot-proof!
Posted 2009-09-13 5:31 PM (#110649 - in reply to #110622) Subject: RE: Super springs vs air bags
Member
Posts: 45
Everyone has different needs and preferences. I put air bags on my Ford 250 since I prefer having the ability to adjust the height and ride of the suspension based on what I'm hauling or carrying in the bed. After a lot of research I went with Air Lift air bags. It's a decision I don't regret. I had a minor leak problem more than a year after installation and their customer service was not only the best I have dealt with but they were a hoot to talk with. Gotta love a customer service department that takes care of customers and has fun doing it. If you decide to go with air bags I highly recommend Air Lift.
Posted 2009-09-13 9:00 PM (#110654 - in reply to #110639) Subject: RE: Super springs vs air bags
Expert
Posts: 1351 Location: Decatur, Texas
Originally written by TX Rebel on 2009-09-13 11:07 AM
I've also had both and much prefer the SuperSprings over the air bags.....they really helped out on my F250 when I hooked up my trailers and I only had them on the lowest setting...the air bags required too much attention and one of them got a hole in it from going flat and that wasn't covered under the warranty unfortunately. Definitely recommend the SuperSprings and as Horsey1 mentioned, they're idiot-proof!
The only way they can get a hole is from rubbing on the frame or something from not being installed right. I have had many trucks with aor bags and so far no problems, I do like having the onboard compressor for in cab adjustability.
Posted 2009-09-13 10:31 PM (#110656 - in reply to #110622) Subject: RE: Super springs vs air bags
Regular
Posts: 56
i have airlift bags in my truck, never again will i have them. the compressor has had to be replaced twice in three years. pain in the but anytime it goes to the garage or have tires put on.
just can't lift it by the frame. snow, salt, mud, all effect the compressor.
Posted 2009-09-14 9:11 AM (#110674 - in reply to #110622) Subject: RE: Super springs vs air bags
Location: Where the wind comes sweepin' down the plain...
Personally, I wouldn't go any other way than with air bags. I had air bags on a previous truck. Had the truck for 6+ years and never had any compressor issues with it. Had one line leak right at a fitting. Got a bigger truck and no longer needed the air bags.
I can't comment on the Super Springs other than I know people that have them and seem to be pleased with them.
Posted 2009-09-14 12:45 PM (#110684 - in reply to #110656) Subject: RE: Super springs vs air bags
Expert
Posts: 1351 Location: Decatur, Texas
Originally written by okie ann on 2009-09-13 10:31 PM
i have airlift bags in my truck, never again will i have them. the compressor has had to be replaced twice in three years. pain in the but anytime it goes to the garage or have tires put on.
just can't lift it by the frame. snow, salt, mud, all effect the compressor.
According to the directions on my compressor, it needs to be mounted in a DRY location! So mud, salt, snow would not hurt it. I would rather a shop lift mine by th axles any way, my opinion that is a lot on the susp. to hang in the air while waiting on someone to change tires.
Super springs vs air bags
