Rear leaf spring rates

[David Schwarz]

I finally got everything purchased and installed on the recently purchased '99 F-250. When I hooked up my 26' TAG trailer, I discovered that the new truck's suspension travel is significantly greater (at least 2", maybe more) than it was on the '92. While this accounts for the smoother ride, it brought spring rates to my attention. Do any of you find a need to modify your rear springs for heavy towing (~7500 #). Does the lower spring rate effect handling? Obviously, I haven't had a chance to tow the trailer yet due to California's version of snow (i.e. rain) - too many crazy people out there to tow if I don't need to.

[hiljoball]

Are you using a weight equalizing hitch? If not, that would help by transfering some load off the rear onto the front and leave your truck standard for normal handling. Another option might be airbags to bring the truck back to level.

[SmokeyWren]

Yeah, first let's discuss the load-equalizing (weight-distributing) hitch you are using. If you're not using one for a tag trailer that grosses over 5,000 pounds, you should be.

If you're using the proper hitch, then you tell me the specs for the rear springs on your '92 and I'll tell you the comparable specs for the rear springs on a '99. [img]/forums/images/%%GRAEMLIN_URL%%/wink.gif[/img]

[David Schwarz]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: SmokeyWren</div><div class="ubbcode-body">If you're using the proper hitch, then you tell me the specs for the rear springs on your '92 and I'll tell you the comparable specs for the rear springs on a '99. [img]/forums/images/%%GRAEMLIN_URL%%/wink.gif[/img] </div></div>
I don't know if it's proper, but I'm using a Drawtite equalizing hitch unit. I don't know much more than that, the unit came with the used trailer (though I know there's a tag on the hitch - I can take a closer look when I next visit the trailer). It's the same rig I used with the '92. With the WEH applied, both trucks appear level - my question has more to do with how the difference in spring rates might effect handling.

Can I infer from the wink that determining the actual spring rate may not be straight-forward? I bought the '92 used as well (do you detect a pattern yet?), so I have no idea if the installed springs are stock or aftermarket. Is there any chance the necessary information may be found somewhere on the spring itself?

Respectfully,
Cheap Bastid

[David Schwarz]

OK, the hitch is essentially this with one of these. I've been satisfied so far with it's performance.