SoCalDesertRider
SanDiego, CA, USA
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Joined: 12/14/2003
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ib516 wrote:The truth is, for anyone with 1/2 a brain, that they put the coil suspension on the half ton for ride quality, same as GM does in the SUVs, and Ford with the Expedition. They have done the research, and ride quality is a key buying point for people looking at 1/2 ton folks. Look at how many on these forums comment on the ride quality of the HD trucks. Imagine those sissy buyers trying out a 1/2 ton.  People who want to haul heavy loads buy 3/4 ton or larger trucks. 1/2 tons have their limits, no matter the brand. I agree that is the reason they put the coils on there. I don't agree it's a good idea and I don't think I would like to have a truck built with them, but I agree that's the reason.
I'll also say that I'm about sick of hearing pansies complaining about the supposed 'harsh ride' of their late model 3/4-ton or 1-ton truck. Most of these new trucks ride like mushy Cadillacs, compared to some of the trucks I've owned and driven over the years and some I still own. And there's nothing wrong with a truck riding like a truck. I'd rather a stiffer empty ride than a mushy, squatting loaded ride. I don't buy trucks to drive them around empty using as commuter cars. I have other vehicles for that purpose.
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ib516
Up here!
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Joined: 04/18/2003
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You would have LOVED the ride of my 02 Dodge 2500 then. It was much more stiff than my current 3500. It was hard on fillings though ....and hearing
2010 Cougar 322QBS 5er
2007 Dodge 3500 SRW Megacab, 4x4, 5.9L Cummins, 3.73, 48RE auto
HYPERTECH MAX ENERGY or DIABLO PREDATOR tuning
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MM49
Brighton, MI, USA
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Joined: 12/28/2004
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SoCalDesertRider wrote:Powerdude wrote:Why do so many people who tow and carry heavy loads add airbags to the rear of their trucks?
It's not a band aid, it's a proven method of leveling the vehicle. Actually they are a band-aid, for springs that have insufficient rate and sag too much to keep the truck level when loaded....
Quote:The really COOL thing about the lowering of the vehicle at speed is that you will gain stability and also gas mileage, as that will decrease air resistance. I agree with that.
I also agree with your thoughts on the wearing out and maintenance of air system in general.
I personally prefer steel springs. No maintenance and they dont usually wear out until the vehicle is reaching the end of it's life mechanically anyways, so lots of other parts are also wearing out at the same time. You really don't understand suspension. The air bag is a feature just like the over load spring in a leaf set up. This suspension will provide an excellent ride as well as providing support in HD applications. The best of both worlds in a light weight rear suspension.
MM49
* This post was
edited 04/10/12 06:40pm by MM49 *
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SoCalDesertRider
SanDiego, CA, USA
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Joined: 12/14/2003
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I really DO understand suspension, contrary to your opinion. A properly rated set of leaf springs with the proper arc and stack height and planned-for amount of deflection for the intended loaded weight of the axle does not need air bags to assist in keeping the truck level. When air bags become a wanted addition is when the factory springs are simply too light to do the job they were intended to do.
Also, air bags, when used on a suspension designed with factory overloads, typically cause the factory overloads to become ineffective, by raising the truck up off the overloads.
Adding air bags to a truck that does not have factory overloads is usually a worthwhile modification.
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FishOnOne
Katy
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Joined: 02/12/2011
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Just a reminder that Ford had air springs on the rear suspension as an option for '98 Light Duty F250 (which later became the F150 HD). The rear suspension consisted of two leaf's and the air spring.
I believe this option was offered for one year only!
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45Ricochet
North Idaho
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Joined: 09/04/2009
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What the heck is a "air spring"? A balloon with a slinky or what?
If we are talking about adding any kind of rating ALL air bag manufactures claim their product WON'T add to the original rating of any vehicle. Merely a "band-aid" to adjust headlights. Many uninformed people relate them to a big rig suspension which is comparing apples to rocks.
06 Ram 3500 CC LB Laramie 4x4 Dually 5.9 Cummins Smarty Jr 48RE Jacobs brake
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wilber1
Abbotsford B.C. Canada
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Joined: 12/16/2002
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ib516 wrote:You would have LOVED the ride of my 02 Dodge 2500 then. It was much more stiff than my current 3500. It was hard on fillings though ....and hearing
I was thinking along the same line. I miss the sound of my 01 but not the volume. My 011 3500 rides better and carries more. Guess the first folks to ditch horse drawn carts for gasoline powered trucks were pansies to. Progress is such a B.
"Never trust a man who has not a single redeeming vice" WSC
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wilber1
Abbotsford B.C. Canada
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Joined: 12/16/2002
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45Ricochet wrote:What the heck is a "air spring"? A balloon with a slinky or what?
If we are talking about adding any kind of rating ALL air bag manufactures claim their product WON'T add to the original rating of any vehicle. Merely a "band-aid" to adjust headlights. Many uninformed people relate them to a big rig suspension which is comparing apples to rocks.
Ah, if the truck manufacturer installs them and says the rating is increased, then it really is increased.
Why on earth would anyone think that light truck suspension technology reached its zenith in the 19th century with horse cart leaf springs and nothing could ever improve them? Progress is such a B.
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MM49
Brighton, MI, USA
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Joined: 12/28/2004
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wilber1 wrote:45Ricochet wrote:What the heck is a "air spring"? A balloon with a slinky or what?
If we are talking about adding any kind of rating ALL air bag manufactures claim their product WON'T add to the original rating of any vehicle. Merely a "band-aid" to adjust headlights. Many uninformed people relate them to a big rig suspension which is comparing apples to rocks.
Ah, if the truck manufacturer installs them and says the rating is increased, then it really is increased.
Why on earth would anyone think that light truck suspension technology reached its zenith in the 19th century with horse cart leaf springs and nothing could ever improve them? Progress is such a B. The Conestoga Wagon was one the first users of leaf springs, I bet they would have chosen air bags if could have.
MM49
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wilber1
Abbotsford B.C. Canada
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Joined: 12/16/2002
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MM49 wrote:wilber1 wrote:45Ricochet wrote:What the heck is a "air spring"? A balloon with a slinky or what?
If we are talking about adding any kind of rating ALL air bag manufactures claim their product WON'T add to the original rating of any vehicle. Merely a "band-aid" to adjust headlights. Many uninformed people relate them to a big rig suspension which is comparing apples to rocks.
Ah, if the truck manufacturer installs them and says the rating is increased, then it really is increased.
Why on earth would anyone think that light truck suspension technology reached its zenith in the 19th century with horse cart leaf springs and nothing could ever improve them? Progress is such a B. The Conestoga Wagon was one the first users of leaf springs, I bet they would have chosen air bags if could have.
MM49
Ya think?
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