Scott when I purchased my used 2014 F350 Platinum the 1st thing I did was replace the shocks with the Bilstien 4600 plus all the cabin mounts after putting my near new Cirrus 820 on the bed. The shocks were the best move I could make. As I previously said after my trip I sold the entire rig and I really miss it. The one thing I wish I had installed would be the sway bar system because sway was really noticeable. I did not have a dually and if I bought another one I would stay with what I had. One thing I noticed about yours is your tires appear to be to small. My tires were much bigger and the ride was fantastic. I forget there size but they are noticeably bigger than yours. One last thing a compliment your presentations are the very best.
Hi Terry! I remember your rig and I bet you miss it! As for the tires, they are the factory size and I'm not planning to change the until I can go with a F550 and run super singles, which is a little ways away. For now, the factory tire size has served me well. What size tires were you running? And thank you, I'm always trying to learn how to do this RUclips stuff, practice makes perfect :)
We have a 2017 Ram 3500 SRW diesel with a 2018 Northstar Arrow TC with airbags and swaybar. Would like to hear recommendations on suspension upgrades to help with the molar dropping rough ride when unloaded? We do lower pressures in tires and drop airbags to 5 psi. Still have the OEM shocks. They were replace once under warranty. Would upgrading shocks help enough?
Any 3500 truck will be a little harsh unloaded, lowering tire and bag pressure does help. The factory shocks are a little softer than the Bilstines. But, this might be a good reason to try to adjustable Rancho shocks. Unfortunately, the only real fix that I know of is to just get used to it. If you drive the truck most of the time without the camper, try adding a couple hundred pounds of something to the bed to help smooth out the ride. We've been driving our dually around for 2 weeks without any weight in it and its pretty harsh. We are used to it now, but it's still jarring.
Thank you posting this video. Ironically you uploaded this just as I am researching different suspension solutions. This video is clear and to the point. The GoPro footage of the suspension in action really shows what is going on and is helpful! Keep up the great video work
Thanks for watching and I’m glad it’s helpful. I have to say, watching the GoPro footage from under the truck gives me a much better idea of just how much the suspension moves. It’s usually out of sight, out of mind. But now I’m amazed that it hasn’t broken!!!
Other than I can, a normally acceptable answer, why are you considering a 5500 if you just got this rig dialed in? Is there a new camper in your future also then?
I'm always looking forward. We have big plans for the future, but sadly, the inventory of f550 and 5500 trucks is very limited this year. My best bet is to wait for next year and either order something or look for something on the market. I could make an entire video about why I want a class 5 truck. Some basic reasons are, payload, wheel base, flatbed/storage options, super singles, and of course, because I want a new toy!
New to TC world. I have a 22 model F350 Lariat short bed with Godzilla engine, love it. When I had it built I ordered every suspensions that Ford offered to pull a 27’ TT. Just ordered / picked up a Palomino TC with dry weight 3000 lbs with a thousand miles on it. Had Timbrens put on 2 days after purchase to level it up a few inches. We do no off roading. I can feel a “little” top sway on curvey roads . What’s driving me nuts - bounce from bridge/ road abutments at any speed. Thinking heavier shocks to smooth out bounce. Your thoughts. Thanks…. Big Tiny’s driver.
I agree with you on the bounce issue. It’s unnerving, especially the big ones. As for a fix, I think better shocks is about all you can do. I thought about doing a dual shock setup, but then it rides like iron without the camper. I’d love to hear any other solutions you might have.
What was your reasoning for going with the Bilstein 4600s? Was it mainly a cost based decision? I would have thought you would have gone for the 6100 for your sized rig. Also, I was under the inpression that you can run any of those Bilstein "leveling" shocks at factory heights. Thanks. I am trying to make an informed decision for shock upgrade on our GMC Canyon, btw.
The 5100 series is for lifted trucks and doesn’t give any benefits over the 4600 series. The 6100s are for racing applications and are better at high temps and fast movements. The 4600s are perfect for what I do. Also, the additional cost of the other series would give me little to no return over the 4600. So it’s a price/performance calculation. 80k miles later, they are still going strong.
Brother you knocked this out of the park. Excellent translation of your insights. This will help a lot of folks trying to filter through the mess online😆. We were about 5 years ahead of you and whether by luck or whatever followed pretty much the same path, in the same order, with the same basic 14k 350 DRW setup. And we got the same results: peace of mind and feeling much more connected to the journey than the drive. Nice job. See you out there in our new F600 monster overland rig.
Ram Dually, Eagle Cap 1165 (yikes) Ive torn through two airbags now. Upgraded to 7500, Hellwig bar, 19.5 Commercial Toyos, Centramatic balancers, Fox shocks
I’ve done all the same upgrades except I ended up going with air bags as opposed to the Timbrens because I have a slide on one side and they help level out the extra weight side to side. My only complaint is the constant squeaking of the upper Stableloads. While the performance is impressive, the sounds at low speed make the truck sound horrible. Thanks for the video!
I've heard that many times about bags helping level the slide out. We don't have that issue, but I can really understand how it would happen. I do have some squeaking, but I assumed it was my spring loaded fast guns. Now, I want to experiment and see if its actually the upper stable loads. Thanks for pointing that out!
@@Stonyboot I actually found a solution to the squeaking problem of the upper Stableloads. I sprayed them and the contact points with Fluid Film and so far so good! They made the trip down the East Coast through a few rain storms and still no squeaking.
Your right on, with Jared, get a F-550/Ram 5500 Chassis crew cab. That is one awesome truck. Can’t decide if I want the Stable Camper kit and CM truck bed or the Douglas truck bed for host. The Douglas is a custom fit but has the spare tire compartment. I am getting too old to switch campers so that may be they way to go. Great video!
Jared is certainly an inspiration for me. I've run out of truck options for this year, so I've made some other plans that will be discussed in future videos. If I had a time machine, I would go back and just a Class 5 truck from day one!
Great video guys! I spent over a year researching trucks and settled on a '21 F350/LB/CC/DRW Lariat with the 7.3 Godzilla and a 4:30 rear for hauling our '21 Northern Lite 10.2 LE/dry bath. The trucks payload is 6800lbs! And the motor is really nice so far. Absolutely wasn't going diesel. Tons of payload and power. Something to consider. You might look at one rather than the F550 as to how much you'll gain and whether you really need to spend the extra on the F550 over a F350. Yes, a F450 has the 19.5's, but if I'm rated at 6800lbs completely stock wheels/rims, I don't need the extra weight 19.5's will take and I don't need the harsher ride you get nor not being able to really air down, when needed. Not to mention the slimmer selection of tires. The F450 has a better turn radius. But I'll take the lower price and higher payload capacity of the F350 if I only have to add the occasional extra couple points to a three point turn once in a blue moon. As for diesel. I know most guys just default to it. But unless you are hauling a D9 or for some crazy reason need to be able to do 80 m/hr going up a mountain for no valid reason, go with the 7.3. Easier to find gas. Cheaper than diesel. No extra's needed in the cold. No DEF. Shit ton in weight savings. The 7.3 sounds like a proper big block, not an elephant choking on a jar of peanut butter......LOL!!!! Just food for thought. :)
I agree completely, I know the new F350s have some amazing payload. I’ll be going with the 7.3 L as well. I love my diesel, but it’s more expense and headaches than it’s worth. For now, I’ll keep my current truck and wait for the right deal. We have a lot of changes coming, so that will also dictate what we do. I like the turning radius of. 450/550 and I’d like to go the super singles route. It sounds like you have a sweet setup! Congratulations 🎊🎉🎈 I’d love to see some pics if you can share them somehow. Email, Facebook, etc. I’m going to keep looking around and seeing what I can find. I’ll make a video about it when I get some better details.
@@Stonyboot I can understand the turn radius factor. When it's a CC/LB/DRW it's pretty bus-like driving in town!! LOL! Not sure why the 450/550 radius is tighter. Ment to look it up. I assume it's maybe a difference in either the frame rails or the front end setup. I'll get some pic's next time they are together. Hard to get time away these days but thinking of even just doing a day trip to hang at the beach for the day/evening somewhere close by. Hopefully they'll be more of them on the market when you get to that point. I had to order mine. There's nothing but diesels here on the Island both used and new.
I have a 1997 F250 HD powered hy the Legendary 7.3 and a 5 speed. My truck camper is an older Lance Squire 4000 9'6". I installed Hellwig 2500 lb overload springs, Timbrens, and airshocks by Gabriel that have separate Schrader valves so they can be adjusted individually. A sway bar is definitely on the agenda... I still get sway even with 50 lbs of air in the shocks.
I have an older truck. A 1973 K20 with a deluxe camper package. My camper is a 1974 Sunline 9.5. Total weight of my truck is 8600 lbs. The only modification to the suspension is helwig adjustable springs. This was done because the truck sagged slightly to the left, because the 2 20 lbs propane tanks and the frig on the same side. After over 70,000 miles with the camper on the truck (92,000 total) the only part I had to replace was the steering stabilizer. The shocks are original. The camper tie down system is from the factory. (Front stabilizers, shocks from bed to cab and frame mounted tie downs)The ride with the camper on is beautiful, without the camper, not so much. The only addition I would consider is the airbag suspension.
Great Video, answered many of my questions. I have a 2015 F350 long bed dually with a Lance 1010 truck camper. Initially the sway was scary. I added the lower stabiloads and like you noticed an immediate improvement. I have been playing with the air bag/springs air pressure, about 60 pounds seems best. And my last question was if the Hellwig Bigwig sway bar would help. You've convinced me.
The BigWig was a night and day difference. I knew it would help, but didn't expect what a huge difference it really makes. So worth putting one on! Let me know if you get one installed, I'd like to hear your throughs.
Appreciate your comments. Have a 01 Dodge Ram 3500. Camper is Lance that is 3600 Dry Weight. Notice it rides the Truck UP in the front a bit. So Now I know what to do. THANKS!
So, now that I have a camper installed on my 2500HD it rides level. Before install the back of the truck was higher. If my headlights were adjusted to no load I guess I now have to check them loaded. At most I have 2000 lb payload on a truck with 3892 lb payload capacity. Will probably do shocks first since it has 160,000 miles.
Thanks man I just bought a 2004 GMC 2500 HD 4x4 6.6 and am going to get a camper. Going to get Bilstein 5100 shocks and will work on the suspension as needed you have helped.
I did the Timbrens and Roadmaster Active Suspension on my 2500 diesel. Great combo so far and the RAS does takes the place of a sway bar too so that helped.
Good video, but it is hard to say what the benefit of each added suspension improvement was except for the first. These should have been installed one at a time for a meaningful review. Yes, I know that is a PITA. I have read some reviews of the Timbren that they make the truck bouncy as it is riding solely on the Timbren and not engaging the overload springs.
I did the Timbrens as it is the only thing to do with the Ram 2500 factory air suspension thats easy. Also a Roadmaster HD sway bar and Gabriel hd shocks. Very happy with the results . Also Tire upgrade and it Hauls the Palamino so much bett that, like you I could kick myself for not getting it all done first thing!
It's hard to learn if you don't go through the process. I would certainly do things differently now, but the learning process is just part of the fun! I looked at the Roadmaster sway bar, but found that the BigWig was just a little stiffer, which is exactly what I needed.
I'm glad you didn't say airbags. The best thing I ever did was get rid of the airbags and add a leaf spring on all four corners. I raised the back 2-5/8" and the front 1-1/2". That alone brought my truck back to ride height (maybe just a little high in the rear). Because I never take my camper off, I don't need the ability to have two suspension profiles and feel that a spring change is far superior if you run with the camper on most or all of the time. I also have Bilstein shocks but really need a bit more and will likely have some professional advice on the best equipment and design for my load. I have my camper bolted to the frame on a 3 point mount where the rear axle twist has less effect on sway of the camper but it also means that the (factory) rear sway bar is almost ineffective. I'm probably going to get some custom short shocks to place between the cabin and the truck frame to still allow it to flex but damp the sway.
I'm not a fan of airbags for this kind of application. I agree with you on what you said. I do wish that I had a little more dampening from the shocks, but I'm not willing to get too custom with this rig. Your rig is a different animal and you should absolutely make as many cool mods as possible! I love your design!
Another great video. I’m still fighting with Ram to replace my factory air suspension so I can put bags on that will allow me to level side to side. The factory air won’t due that. Ram doesn’t even know how to disable the air suspension in the computer if I go to a traditional suspension so that I can do what u did. At least I have the sway bar. Hope all is well.
That's a bummer, sorry to hear. I almost bought a truck with the factory bags and the Long Horn trim. However, after reading about some of the limitations and fitment issues with various brackets and accessories. I decided to go with a non-airbag truck. I've heard so many people end up swapping them out with aftermarket options. Good luck with your battle with RAM!
Scott it’s me Dan from Rochester, NY we have the same rig and I am always interested in upgrading based on your experience and knowledge. I want to do the sway bar first. I also have the 12 volt cable to connect my 3 way fridge to the battery like you. Thanks for your videos. PS Maine was beautiful!!
Hi Dan. Did you see the video I did about the fridge connection? And yes, the sway bar is a must. I'm so happy with it that I could shout it from the roof tops. Live and learn, but it makes driving much more enjoyable. Thanks for watching and Maine is incredible!
@@Stonyboot Scott I have watched your video on wiring the refrigerator to the battery of the truck, I’m just too scared to do it myself. If my truck is just sitting in my driveway do you recommend putting my Reico jacks down to take the load off the truck when not using it?
Great video! I wonder if using Timbren Severe Service Kit (with the significantly stronger and stiffer rubber spring) and Hellwig Bigwig would net the biggest benefits for the lowest cost?
I have a 2019 Ram 3500 SRW hauling a 2012 Northern Lite 9-6. It’s a bare bones model with no AC, microwave, or other weighty options. Our goal was to stay as light as possible with a full size hard-side camper. I have upgraded the wheels and tires from factory load range E to load range range F. Obviously no change to the truck iGVWR, which is placarded 12300 lb. My first upgrade was to try and minimize sag. I did Lower Stable Loads only, as I don’t have a separate upper overload spring. It definitely helped but did not restore the truck to level when loaded. My next step was an Airlift Load Lifter 5000 kit including the Wireless AIR Compressor system. I’m very happy with the results and since I run my truck unloaded a fair bit of the time it’s really nice how flexible this set up is. I’ve been so happy with this setup I really haven’t considered adding anything else, but if Scott says the sway bar is the “bomb” then I believe it. I might have to see if Santa has anything left in the budget!
Hi Terry! Your camper might not have any weighty options, but I'm pretty sure it has a lot of elbow grease and a nice table! Since you do have air bags, I can assure you that a sway bar would make a world of difference. I'm still giddy every time I drive now, after 60k miles of sway, I feel so much more confident driving now. Santa should listen up!
The one thing you can save money is if you plan to put a truss extended hitch because they have the slickest set up to mount your sway bar and you have get different frame mounts to hold camper. But when you do one up grade at a time that’s when it gets you and as far as the sway bar mount it looks so much better like it would come from factory and extended truss hitch is also a really good up grade to pull boat it box trailer and a box trailer is so nice to have and a ton of storage for grill propane tanks chairs tables easy up it’s jus great to have and I always get tandem trailer so if you blow a tire and you just keep on trucking till you find a nice to change tire like a carport at gas station when raining and I always ask first and have never been told no especially when latter at nite when they are not busy. Keep videos coming.
Do you have a factory sway bar originally, or you just install a bigger one. What is the size of you sway bar in diameter, is the sway bar just in rear or you install one in front as well.
Terrific video, well done and logical in how this was communicated. Agree the footage of the suspension in action is awesome. We are going to move from a tow behind with a half ton to a truck camper with a Northern Lite 10-2. I just ordered a 2023 F 350 swd diesel lariat long bed with the camper package. It includes a sway bar and bigger springs in the front. We will not be doing serious off road and the truck will be used a lot without the camper. I liked the ride of the 2022 F 350 and want to keep that feel. I know I am going to want to make some rear suspension modifications to avoid sagging. This was really helpful in discussing what I might do. Feedback or suggestions welcome
Scott excellent video! We have a 2004 Ram 3500 but are looking for a 5500 or F550 before we get back out there (sold a fifth wheel a few years ago) depending on what suspension items are on the F550 or 5500 we will definitely do some mods. Again great video. Keep them coming.
Sounds like a good plan. I’m looking at the class 5 trucks for several reasons, a big one is that the suspension is more than adequate. However, I’ll still want a sway bar!
Oh, and I've had the Rancho's on my old truck. Adjustability is nice when running sans camper. And they do come with life time replacement. BUT....... the adjustment knob is pretty much designed to fail very quickly. Unless you crawl under there and take the knob assembly out, clean it and pack it with white lith grease at least twice a year. Also, the powder coating on them is shit with a capitol S. So they rust real quick. And you still have to wait for your mech to inspect them, verify the failure to Rancho, wait for Rancho to finally send the replacements, and then pay for install. Which, when they go and you guys are full-timing, could be a real PITA!! I also spoke with a guy I do business with, who's a auto enthusiast and professional mech for decades. He said air shocks like Ranchos are great if you either only drive pavement or are sponsored to drive off-road. The rapid cycling of gravel/dirt logging/forest service roads with all the pot holes, etc. heats up the air shocks too much and blows there seals. As apposed to oil shocks that dissipate heat better and can handle the off-road cycling of the suspension. So when my relatively new stock 350 shock bite the dust, after 15 years with Ranchos and air bags on the old truck, I'll go with the Bils this time. Again, just my experience. And I like the idea of the upper and lower Sl's. But I've got a welding shop and can fab those bits for way less than the retail price. I'm still on the fence about the sway bar. Concerned how it effects the drive empty. And I've not put the new combo into any big sway inducing situations yet. Though I don't find the swaying as unsettling as a lot of people seem too. Ford did a video years ago. They build a huge steel I beam frame to replicate the weight and size of a large TC and dropped it into a stock F350. Drove the absolute shinto out of it through pylons and 'Elk maneuvers'. If you can find it on the web in some corner, it's really something to see. Wish there was more of it. Again, thanks for the good review. I like that you're driven by careful consideration and not ego or some bullshit. You do you and it's good!
What you said is pretty much what the reviews talked about. A knob isn’t any good if it seizes up quickly. I didn’t know about the air only shock problems, I assumed they were oil/air shocks. Stable loads are nice, but i agree that you can use some felling wedges or even just some steel plate and a u-bolt. My original plan was a 3/4-1” block of steel and put it in there. I ended up finding a great deal on the upper and lower SLs so that sealed the deal and made install that must simpler. The sway bar is amazing and it doesn’t rally effect unloaded driving. My truck isn’t designed for articulation, so it wasn’t even a consideration. On a SRW, it might be noticeable. I was agnostic about the sway bar until I got to experience it, no I’m a believer!
@@Stonyboot I think if you were really attentive to maintenance on them, the knobs would last pretty good. (Someone like my Dad. Retired Navy with time on his hands LOL!) I read years ago a machinist was machining knob replacement kits for them out of brass that were supposed to be good. I just can't fathom how it's cost effective for Rancho to not come up with better knob and seals rather then having to replace at their cost the entire shocks under their lifetime warranty!?!? Love to hear them explain that decision! Glad you got a good deal on the SL's. They are spendy, but it's a small niche market and in the US, so I wouldn't say they are "over priced" as many do. One very Canadian DIY uppers I've seen are hockey pucks! Cheap and easy to replace and bring a couple spares when traveling. I've see blocks of UHMD used as well. Some in the forum peanut gallery always chimes up about DIY steel blocks damaging the springs. If mild steel damages your spring, you've got a big problem with your supposedly 'hardened' leafs! LOL! I'll do some more traveling to see if I need to add anything to the F350 DWR. It's a bit of a personal think to. The sway doesn't 'scare' me, thinking I'm gonna tip. It's more a comfort thing. Doesn't bother me much. But after seeing the Ford TC hauling footage, you'd be really hard pressed to tip over a truck and TC. It's crazy! Loving the DIY and fix-it/mod vid's. You do a good job presenting them in a reasonable way that is well informed. :)
Thank you for the thorough video! We started by adding leafs which helped our gmc 2500. We also did Rancho 9000 and so far they have been great but I do agree with what you said, we put the adjustment to max and have not touched them since. And then added stable loads which made a huge difference with off road handling and leveling. However, the sway is still there and I think it sounds like the sway bar would be the next mod!
It sounds like you have have been slowing perfecting your setup. I enjoy doing things slowly and gaining understanding as I go. The sway bar is really amazing, you will be really, really happy with it. I would have installed it day one had I known what I know now.
👍👍👍Been waiting for this video! I really enjoy how thorough you are with feedback/research/opinions. But now I have to know, why are you considering a 550? Is it just for the bigger payload or are there more reasons? Thanks, Scott. Safe travels
Thanks, I’m glad you liked the video! There are about a dozen reasons for the truck change. I might have to make a video about it. Since I’ve had several questions about it. Payload, turning radius, wheel base, overall strength, storage space (flatbed and boxes) and moving away from diesel are all reasons. There’s are several other reasons, but this is probably a good video topic. Stay tuned.
I’m thinking of a top link from a tractor. I’ll fiddle it with it soon. For now, I’m using chains from the frame to stiffen things up. Seems to be working.
Thank you! Unfortunately, we have several months of plans spanning August, September and October. I really want to get to some of these other Expos and rally's, but we always seem to have other plans.
To each their own. There's always someone that will say that RAM/Ford/Chevy are the best. I actually prefer Toyota, but they don't make anything to handle the weight, except for Hino, which is way too big!
Scott when I purchased my used 2014 F350 Platinum the 1st thing I did was replace the shocks with the Bilstien 4600 plus all the cabin mounts after putting my near new Cirrus 820 on the bed. The shocks were the best move I could make. As I previously said after my trip I sold the entire rig and I really miss it. The one thing I wish I had installed would be the sway bar system because sway was really noticeable. I did not have a dually and if I bought another one I would stay with what I had. One thing I noticed about yours is your tires appear to be to small. My tires were much bigger and the ride was fantastic. I forget there size but they are noticeably bigger than yours. One last thing a compliment your presentations are the very best.
Hi Terry! I remember your rig and I bet you miss it! As for the tires, they are the factory size and I'm not planning to change the until I can go with a F550 and run super singles, which is a little ways away. For now, the factory tire size has served me well.
What size tires were you running?
And thank you, I'm always trying to learn how to do this RUclips stuff, practice makes perfect :)
We have a 2017 Ram 3500 SRW diesel with a 2018 Northstar Arrow TC with airbags and swaybar. Would like to hear recommendations on suspension upgrades to help with the molar dropping rough ride when unloaded? We do lower pressures in tires and drop airbags to 5 psi. Still have the OEM shocks. They were replace once under warranty. Would upgrading shocks help enough?
Any 3500 truck will be a little harsh unloaded, lowering tire and bag pressure does help. The factory shocks are a little softer than the Bilstines. But, this might be a good reason to try to adjustable Rancho shocks. Unfortunately, the only real fix that I know of is to just get used to it. If you drive the truck most of the time without the camper, try adding a couple hundred pounds of something to the bed to help smooth out the ride.
We've been driving our dually around for 2 weeks without any weight in it and its pretty harsh. We are used to it now, but it's still jarring.
Thank you posting this video. Ironically you uploaded this just as I am researching different suspension solutions. This video is clear and to the point. The GoPro footage of the suspension in action really shows what is going on and is helpful! Keep up the great video work
Thanks for watching and I’m glad it’s helpful. I have to say, watching the GoPro footage from under the truck gives me a much better idea of just how much the suspension moves. It’s usually out of sight, out of mind. But now I’m amazed that it hasn’t broken!!!
Other than I can, a normally acceptable answer, why are you considering a 5500 if you just got this rig dialed in? Is there a new camper in your future also then?
I'm always looking forward. We have big plans for the future, but sadly, the inventory of f550 and 5500 trucks is very limited this year. My best bet is to wait for next year and either order something or look for something on the market.
I could make an entire video about why I want a class 5 truck. Some basic reasons are, payload, wheel base, flatbed/storage options, super singles, and of course, because I want a new toy!
New to TC world. I have a 22 model F350 Lariat short bed with Godzilla engine, love it. When I had it built I ordered every suspensions that Ford offered to pull a 27’ TT. Just ordered / picked up a Palomino TC with dry weight 3000 lbs with a thousand miles on it. Had Timbrens put on 2 days after purchase to level it up a few inches. We do no off roading. I can feel a “little” top sway on curvey roads . What’s driving me nuts - bounce from bridge/ road abutments at any speed. Thinking heavier shocks to smooth out bounce. Your thoughts. Thanks…. Big Tiny’s driver.
I agree with you on the bounce issue. It’s unnerving, especially the big ones.
As for a fix, I think better shocks is about all you can do. I thought about doing a dual shock setup, but then it rides like iron without the camper. I’d love to hear any other solutions you might have.
@@Stonyboot Thanks for getting back so soon. On same page as you on shocks. One ton trucks ride is rough enough when TC is not on board. Thanks again!
Scott, I had Bilstiens in my F350 better ride right away.
What was your reasoning for going with the Bilstein 4600s? Was it mainly a cost based decision? I would have thought you would have gone for the 6100 for your sized rig. Also, I was under the inpression that you can run any of those Bilstein "leveling" shocks at factory heights. Thanks. I am trying to make an informed decision for shock upgrade on our GMC Canyon, btw.
The 5100 series is for lifted trucks and doesn’t give any benefits over the 4600 series. The 6100s are for racing applications and are better at high temps and fast movements. The 4600s are perfect for what I do.
Also, the additional cost of the other series would give me little to no return over the 4600. So it’s a price/performance calculation.
80k miles later, they are still going strong.
My 2019 Ram 3500 came with factory airbags. Can I still add the timbrens? (Do they occupy the same pedestal?
Possibly, take a peek under your truck. I suspect that it’s the same location.
Brother you knocked this out of the park. Excellent translation of your insights. This will help a lot of folks trying to filter through the mess online😆. We were about 5 years ahead of you and whether by luck or whatever followed pretty much the same path, in the same order, with the same basic 14k 350 DRW setup. And we got the same results: peace of mind and feeling much more connected to the journey than the drive. Nice job.
See you out there in our new F600 monster overland rig.
It's nice to hear that, I guess it helps validate the process. I have my eyes on a class 5 truck... but, please share, why did you chose a f600?
If you want to order a truck the dealers in Florida are advertising they are taking orders where I know most of the country is not.
Thanks for the tip, we’ll look into that!
Ram Dually, Eagle Cap 1165 (yikes) Ive torn through two airbags now. Upgraded to 7500, Hellwig bar, 19.5 Commercial Toyos, Centramatic balancers, Fox shocks
Great video! I learned a lot! Thank you. I also just subscribed!
Thanks for the sub!
I’ve done all the same upgrades except I ended up going with air bags as opposed to the Timbrens because I have a slide on one side and they help level out the extra weight side to side. My only complaint is the constant squeaking of the upper Stableloads. While the performance is impressive, the sounds at low speed make the truck sound horrible. Thanks for the video!
I've heard that many times about bags helping level the slide out. We don't have that issue, but I can really understand how it would happen. I do have some squeaking, but I assumed it was my spring loaded fast guns. Now, I want to experiment and see if its actually the upper stable loads. Thanks for pointing that out!
@@Stonyboot I actually found a solution to the squeaking problem of the upper Stableloads. I sprayed them and the contact points with Fluid Film and so far so good! They made the trip down the East Coast through a few rain storms and still no squeaking.
Kissimmee, LOL.
Your right on, with Jared, get a F-550/Ram 5500 Chassis crew cab. That is one awesome truck. Can’t decide if I want the Stable Camper kit and CM truck bed or the Douglas truck bed for host. The Douglas is a custom fit but has the spare tire compartment. I am getting too old to switch campers so that may be they way to go. Great video!
Jared is certainly an inspiration for me. I've run out of truck options for this year, so I've made some other plans that will be discussed in future videos. If I had a time machine, I would go back and just a Class 5 truck from day one!
Great video guys! I spent over a year researching trucks and settled on a '21 F350/LB/CC/DRW Lariat with the 7.3 Godzilla and a 4:30 rear for hauling our '21 Northern Lite 10.2 LE/dry bath. The trucks payload is 6800lbs! And the motor is really nice so far. Absolutely wasn't going diesel. Tons of payload and power. Something to consider. You might look at one rather than the F550 as to how much you'll gain and whether you really need to spend the extra on the F550 over a F350. Yes, a F450 has the 19.5's, but if I'm rated at 6800lbs completely stock wheels/rims, I don't need the extra weight 19.5's will take and I don't need the harsher ride you get nor not being able to really air down, when needed. Not to mention the slimmer selection of tires. The F450 has a better turn radius. But I'll take the lower price and higher payload capacity of the F350 if I only have to add the occasional extra couple points to a three point turn once in a blue moon.
As for diesel. I know most guys just default to it. But unless you are hauling a D9 or for some crazy reason need to be able to do 80 m/hr going up a mountain for no valid reason, go with the 7.3. Easier to find gas. Cheaper than diesel. No extra's needed in the cold. No DEF. Shit ton in weight savings. The 7.3 sounds like a proper big block, not an elephant choking on a jar of peanut butter......LOL!!!!
Just food for thought. :)
I agree completely, I know the new F350s have some amazing payload. I’ll be going with the 7.3 L as well. I love my diesel, but it’s more expense and headaches than it’s worth.
For now, I’ll keep my current truck and wait for the right deal. We have a lot of changes coming, so that will also dictate what we do.
I like the turning radius of. 450/550 and I’d like to go the super singles route.
It sounds like you have a sweet setup! Congratulations 🎊🎉🎈
I’d love to see some pics if you can share them somehow. Email, Facebook, etc.
I’m going to keep looking around and seeing what I can find. I’ll make a video about it when I get some better details.
@@Stonyboot I can understand the turn radius factor. When it's a CC/LB/DRW it's pretty bus-like driving in town!! LOL!
Not sure why the 450/550 radius is tighter. Ment to look it up. I assume it's maybe a difference in either the frame rails or the front end setup.
I'll get some pic's next time they are together. Hard to get time away these days but thinking of even just doing a day trip to hang at the beach for the day/evening somewhere close by.
Hopefully they'll be more of them on the market when you get to that point. I had to order mine. There's nothing but diesels here on the Island both used and new.
I’m in the process of buying the same setup but a 24 model year.
Great video very helpful thank you
Thanks for watching!
I have a 1997 F250 HD powered hy the Legendary 7.3 and a 5 speed. My truck camper is an older Lance Squire 4000 9'6". I installed Hellwig 2500 lb overload springs, Timbrens, and airshocks by Gabriel that have separate Schrader valves so they can be adjusted individually. A sway bar is definitely on the agenda... I still get sway even with 50 lbs of air in the shocks.
That's a nice setup! If you're still having sway (which is common with air bags), a sway bar makes a HUGE difference!
I have an older truck. A 1973 K20 with a deluxe camper package. My camper is a 1974 Sunline 9.5. Total weight of my truck is 8600 lbs. The only modification to the suspension is helwig adjustable springs. This was done because the truck sagged slightly to the left, because the 2 20 lbs propane tanks and the frig on the same side. After over 70,000 miles with the camper on the truck (92,000 total) the only part I had to replace was the steering stabilizer. The shocks are original. The camper tie down system is from the factory. (Front stabilizers, shocks from bed to cab and frame mounted tie downs)The ride with the camper on is beautiful, without the camper, not so much. The only addition I would consider is the airbag suspension.
Great Video, answered many of my questions. I have a 2015 F350 long bed dually with a Lance 1010 truck camper. Initially the sway was scary. I added the lower stabiloads and like you noticed an immediate improvement. I have been playing with the air bag/springs air pressure, about 60 pounds seems best. And my last question was if the Hellwig Bigwig sway bar would help. You've convinced me.
The BigWig was a night and day difference. I knew it would help, but didn't expect what a huge difference it really makes. So worth putting one on!
Let me know if you get one installed, I'd like to hear your throughs.
Appreciate your comments. Have a 01 Dodge Ram 3500. Camper is Lance that is 3600 Dry Weight. Notice it rides the Truck UP in the front a bit. So Now I know what to do. THANKS!
Glad I could help
So, now that I have a camper installed on my 2500HD it rides level. Before install the back of the truck was higher. If my headlights were adjusted to no load I guess I now have to check them loaded. At most I have 2000 lb payload on a truck with 3892 lb payload capacity. Will probably do shocks first since it has 160,000 miles.
dude that was agreat video! I live full time in a box truck it bounces insane! can't wait to fix it.
Thanks for watching. What kind of box truck do you have? I know their suspensions can be a little harsh if they aren't loaded.
Excellent video Thank you I'm getting more and more prepared to make the jump!!!
and purchase my rig.
That’s exciting! We’re glad this video was helpful, thanks for watching!
Thanks man I just bought a 2004 GMC 2500 HD 4x4 6.6 and am going to get a camper. Going to get Bilstein 5100 shocks and will work on the suspension as needed you have helped.
Nice! Happy camping and 85k miles and the Bilstines are still doing their job. No sign of a leak.
I just ordered a sway bar. I hope it’s worth the expense. 👍
That’s awesome! It’s definitely worth the money!
Good evening from Godley Texas, great simple to understand suspension video. Stay safe and happy travels 😎
Thank you so much for watching, glad you enjoyed the video!
I did the Timbrens and Roadmaster Active Suspension on my 2500 diesel. Great combo so far and the RAS does takes the place of a sway bar too so that helped.
I just took a look at the RAS and it seems to be an interesting solution. I'll have to do a little more reading, thanks!
Good video, but it is hard to say what the benefit of each added suspension improvement was except for the first. These should have been installed one at a time for a meaningful review. Yes, I know that is a PITA. I have read some reviews of the Timbren that they make the truck bouncy as it is riding solely on the Timbren and not engaging the overload springs.
I did the Timbrens as it is the only thing to do with the Ram 2500 factory air suspension thats easy. Also a Roadmaster HD sway bar and Gabriel hd shocks. Very happy with the results . Also Tire upgrade and it Hauls the Palamino so much bett that, like you I could kick myself for not getting it all done first thing!
It's hard to learn if you don't go through the process. I would certainly do things differently now, but the learning process is just part of the fun! I looked at the Roadmaster sway bar, but found that the BigWig was just a little stiffer, which is exactly what I needed.
I'm glad you didn't say airbags. The best thing I ever did was get rid of the airbags and add a leaf spring on all four corners. I raised the back 2-5/8" and the front 1-1/2". That alone brought my truck back to ride height (maybe just a little high in the rear). Because I never take my camper off, I don't need the ability to have two suspension profiles and feel that a spring change is far superior if you run with the camper on most or all of the time. I also have Bilstein shocks but really need a bit more and will likely have some professional advice on the best equipment and design for my load. I have my camper bolted to the frame on a 3 point mount where the rear axle twist has less effect on sway of the camper but it also means that the (factory) rear sway bar is almost ineffective. I'm probably going to get some custom short shocks to place between the cabin and the truck frame to still allow it to flex but damp the sway.
I'm not a fan of airbags for this kind of application. I agree with you on what you said. I do wish that I had a little more dampening from the shocks, but I'm not willing to get too custom with this rig. Your rig is a different animal and you should absolutely make as many cool mods as possible! I love your design!
Another great video. I’m still fighting with Ram to replace my factory air suspension so I can put bags on that will allow me to level side to side. The factory air won’t due that. Ram doesn’t even know how to disable the air suspension in the computer if I go to a traditional suspension so that I can do what u did. At least I have the sway bar. Hope all is well.
That's a bummer, sorry to hear. I almost bought a truck with the factory bags and the Long Horn trim. However, after reading about some of the limitations and fitment issues with various brackets and accessories. I decided to go with a non-airbag truck. I've heard so many people end up swapping them out with aftermarket options. Good luck with your battle with RAM!
Scott it’s me Dan from Rochester, NY we have the same rig and I am always interested in upgrading based on your experience and knowledge. I want to do the sway bar first. I also have the 12 volt cable to connect my 3 way fridge to the battery like you. Thanks for your videos. PS Maine was beautiful!!
Hi Dan. Did you see the video I did about the fridge connection?
And yes, the sway bar is a must. I'm so happy with it that I could shout it from the roof tops. Live and learn, but it makes driving much more enjoyable.
Thanks for watching and Maine is incredible!
@@Stonyboot Scott I have watched your video on wiring the refrigerator to the battery of the truck, I’m just too scared to do it myself.
If my truck is just sitting in my driveway do you recommend putting my Reico jacks down to take the load off the truck when not using it?
Great video! I wonder if using Timbren Severe Service Kit (with the significantly stronger and stiffer rubber spring) and Hellwig Bigwig would net the biggest benefits for the lowest cost?
Appreciate the video. I'm researching the suspension upgrades in HOPE of having a truck camper someday :)
I have a 2019 Ram 3500 SRW hauling a 2012 Northern Lite 9-6. It’s a bare bones model with no AC, microwave, or other weighty options. Our goal was to stay as light as possible with a full size hard-side camper. I have upgraded the wheels and tires from factory load range E to load range range F. Obviously no change to the truck iGVWR, which is placarded 12300 lb. My first upgrade was to try and minimize sag. I did Lower Stable Loads only, as I don’t have a separate upper overload spring. It definitely helped but did not restore the truck to level when loaded. My next step was an Airlift Load Lifter 5000 kit including the Wireless AIR Compressor system. I’m very happy with the results and since I run my truck unloaded a fair bit of the time it’s really nice how flexible this set up is. I’ve been so happy with this setup I really haven’t considered adding anything else, but if Scott says the sway bar is the “bomb” then I believe it. I might have to see if Santa has anything left in the budget!
Hi Terry! Your camper might not have any weighty options, but I'm pretty sure it has a lot of elbow grease and a nice table! Since you do have air bags, I can assure you that a sway bar would make a world of difference. I'm still giddy every time I drive now, after 60k miles of sway, I feel so much more confident driving now. Santa should listen up!
The one thing you can save money is if you plan to put a truss extended hitch because they have the slickest set up to mount your sway bar and you have get different frame mounts to hold camper. But when you do one up grade at a time that’s when it gets you and as far as the sway bar mount it looks so much better like it would come from factory and extended truss hitch is also a really good up grade to pull boat it box trailer and a box trailer is so nice to have and a ton of storage for grill propane tanks chairs tables easy up it’s jus great to have and I always get tandem trailer so if you blow a tire and you just keep on trucking till you find a nice to change tire like a carport at gas station when raining and I always ask first and have never been told no especially when latter at nite when they are not busy. Keep videos coming.
I did the Torklift SuperHitch/SuperTruss in another video. And you’re right, the extra bolt holes are fantastic for the sway bar connection!
Do you have a factory sway bar originally, or you just install a bigger one. What is the size of you sway bar in diameter, is the sway bar just in rear or you install one in front as well.
Terrific video, well done and logical in how this was communicated. Agree the footage of the suspension in action is awesome. We are going to move from a tow behind with a half ton to a truck camper with a Northern Lite 10-2. I just ordered a 2023 F 350 swd diesel lariat long bed with the camper package. It includes a sway bar and bigger springs in the front. We will not be doing serious off road and the truck will be used a lot without the camper. I liked the ride of the 2022 F 350 and want to keep that feel. I know I am going to want to make some rear suspension modifications to avoid sagging. This was really helpful in discussing what I might do. Feedback or suggestions welcome
Hello . is there a 2" reciever hitch with extension carrying a motor bike , what is the weight of that ? thank you
Scott excellent video! We have a 2004 Ram 3500 but are looking for a 5500 or F550 before we get back out there (sold a fifth wheel a few years ago) depending on what suspension items are on the F550 or 5500 we will definitely do some mods. Again great video. Keep them coming.
Sounds like a good plan. I’m looking at the class 5 trucks for several reasons, a big one is that the suspension is more than adequate. However, I’ll still want a sway bar!
Oh, and I've had the Rancho's on my old truck. Adjustability is nice when running sans camper. And they do come with life time replacement.
BUT....... the adjustment knob is pretty much designed to fail very quickly. Unless you crawl under there and take the knob assembly out, clean it and pack it with white lith grease at least twice a year. Also, the powder coating on them is shit with a capitol S. So they rust real quick. And you still have to wait for your mech to inspect them, verify the failure to Rancho, wait for Rancho to finally send the replacements, and then pay for install. Which, when they go and you guys are full-timing, could be a real PITA!! I also spoke with a guy I do business with, who's a auto enthusiast and professional mech for decades. He said air shocks like Ranchos are great if you either only drive pavement or are sponsored to drive off-road. The rapid cycling of gravel/dirt logging/forest service roads with all the pot holes, etc. heats up the air shocks too much and blows there seals. As apposed to oil shocks that dissipate heat better and can handle the off-road cycling of the suspension.
So when my relatively new stock 350 shock bite the dust, after 15 years with Ranchos and air bags on the old truck, I'll go with the Bils this time.
Again, just my experience.
And I like the idea of the upper and lower Sl's. But I've got a welding shop and can fab those bits for way less than the retail price.
I'm still on the fence about the sway bar. Concerned how it effects the drive empty. And I've not put the new combo into any big sway inducing situations yet. Though I don't find the swaying as unsettling as a lot of people seem too. Ford did a video years ago. They build a huge steel I beam frame to replicate the weight and size of a large TC and dropped it into a stock F350. Drove the absolute shinto out of it through pylons and 'Elk maneuvers'. If you can find it on the web in some corner, it's really something to see. Wish there was more of it.
Again, thanks for the good review. I like that you're driven by careful consideration and not ego or some bullshit. You do you and it's good!
What you said is pretty much what the reviews talked about. A knob isn’t any good if it seizes up quickly. I didn’t know about the air only shock problems, I assumed they were oil/air shocks.
Stable loads are nice, but i agree that you can use some felling wedges or even just some steel plate and a u-bolt. My original plan was a 3/4-1” block of steel and put it in there. I ended up finding a great deal on the upper and lower SLs so that sealed the deal and made install that must simpler.
The sway bar is amazing and it doesn’t rally effect unloaded driving. My truck isn’t designed for articulation, so it wasn’t even a consideration. On a SRW, it might be noticeable. I was agnostic about the sway bar until I got to experience it, no I’m a believer!
@@Stonyboot I think if you were really attentive to maintenance on them, the knobs would last pretty good. (Someone like my Dad. Retired Navy with time on his hands LOL!) I read years ago a machinist was machining knob replacement kits for them out of brass that were supposed to be good. I just can't fathom how it's cost effective for Rancho to not come up with better knob and seals rather then having to replace at their cost the entire shocks under their lifetime warranty!?!? Love to hear them explain that decision!
Glad you got a good deal on the SL's. They are spendy, but it's a small niche market and in the US, so I wouldn't say they are "over priced" as many do.
One very Canadian DIY uppers I've seen are hockey pucks! Cheap and easy to replace and bring a couple spares when traveling. I've see blocks of UHMD used as well. Some in the forum peanut gallery always chimes up about DIY steel blocks damaging the springs. If mild steel damages your spring, you've got a big problem with your supposedly 'hardened' leafs! LOL!
I'll do some more traveling to see if I need to add anything to the F350 DWR. It's a bit of a personal think to. The sway doesn't 'scare' me, thinking I'm gonna tip. It's more a comfort thing. Doesn't bother me much. But after seeing the Ford TC hauling footage, you'd be really hard pressed to tip over a truck and TC. It's crazy!
Loving the DIY and fix-it/mod vid's. You do a good job presenting them in a reasonable way that is well informed. :)
EXCELLENT video! Given me a lot to think about
Thank you so much, glad it was helpful!🙌
Thank you for the thorough video!
We started by adding leafs which helped our gmc 2500. We also did Rancho 9000 and so far they have been great but I do agree with what you said, we put the adjustment to max and have not touched them since. And then added stable loads which made a huge difference with off road handling and leveling. However, the sway is still there and I think it sounds like the sway bar would be the next mod!
It sounds like you have have been slowing perfecting your setup. I enjoy doing things slowly and gaining understanding as I go.
The sway bar is really amazing, you will be really, really happy with it. I would have installed it day one had I known what I know now.
👍👍👍Been waiting for this video! I really enjoy how thorough you are with feedback/research/opinions. But now I have to know, why are you considering a 550? Is it just for the bigger payload or are there more reasons? Thanks, Scott. Safe travels
Thanks, I’m glad you liked the video!
There are about a dozen reasons for the truck change. I might have to make a video about it. Since I’ve had several questions about it. Payload, turning radius, wheel base, overall strength, storage space (flatbed and boxes) and moving away from diesel are all reasons. There’s are several other reasons, but this is probably a good video topic. Stay tuned.
For us it'll be tough to switch from diesel. Check on insurance & vehicle licensing before selecting - particularly for your residential state.
why not a panhard rod? That did wonders for my 15,000 # GVW Airstream Class A workhorse.
I’m thinking of a top link from a tractor. I’ll fiddle it with it soon. For now, I’m using chains from the frame to stiffen things up. Seems to be working.
Scott, you're a real pro here. Great narration. Definitely a radio announcers voice.
More awesome content!!! Are you going to be at the Mountain West Expo in Loveland in a couple of weeks?
Thank you! Unfortunately, we have several months of plans spanning August, September and October. I really want to get to some of these other Expos and rally's, but we always seem to have other plans.
Great content! Thinking of doing a couple upgrades on my truck also. Thanks for the info!
Glad it was helpful!
Great useful information, thanks for sharing. Toledo 💙
Thank you for watching!🥰
Great review..love your technical attention..as I’ve learned in the past always oversize for your load and suspension wear over time
I agree, that is also why I want to move to a Class 5 Truck. But for now, our truck has been handling things quite well!
another great video! just installed 5100 all around, Hellwig Big Wig Rear Sway Bar is twice the price for my 22 Duramax, man I need a 3rd job, lol
Agree did them all also 👍
Awesome!🙌
Thank you!! Great advise 👍
Thanks for stopping by!
Blow out at 666
I have been wanting to put 19.5 tires and rims and you can 14 ply tires
When you get your flat bed have you thought about increasing your inside floor space? I would redue the entire inside floor area.
😎👍
😎🤓💜💚CA❤🤙
👍👍👍Good job scott
Thanks!
Thank you for this video!
Excellent video
We used the Hellwig helper springs on our camper set up, helped alot. Ours was a Much lighter setup then your running.
Great video. Thanks
Thanks for watching! We love Hellwig’s Sway bar, it made a huge difference.
😎👍❤
Thanks!
Why not Chevrolet? They are buy far the best.
To each their own. There's always someone that will say that RAM/Ford/Chevy are the best. I actually prefer Toyota, but they don't make anything to handle the weight, except for Hino, which is way too big!
@@Stonyboot I know, it’s just fun.
Sway bar first thing to install!!
Agreed!