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New Owner, shackles, springs or both?

Discussion in 'Towing & Hauling' started by TurboTII, Aug 28, 2020.

  1. Aug 28, 2020 at 12:05 PM
    #1
    TurboTII

    TurboTII [OP] New Member

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    So I just picked up my new 2020 TRDPro. I will need to tow as I'm replacing a Dodge 3500 dually. That was used to tow a 5th wheel that is now sold. Love to keep the Dodge, as its a brute, but I'm not using it as much and it is BIG!

    Since this squat thing is an issue with these trucks, I've read I can use shackles to raise the rear end, taking care of the squat. Or do I install those air bag looking springs...Sumo and one other one is often mentioned.

    So, with an equalizer hitch for the travel trailer, and one or both of these fixes, I should be able to tow safely without bottoming out or something? I guess E rated tires as well I think.

    Thank you!
     
  2. Aug 28, 2020 at 12:10 PM
    #2
    shellshock

    shellshock Guy who drives a lot

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    I’d start by replacing the spring pack with something beefier. I’ve got a set of icon RXT on my truck and it made a pretty significant difference.

    add a WDH and you should be set.
     
  3. Aug 28, 2020 at 12:17 PM
    #3
    BlackSheep

    BlackSheep caffeinated member

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    I do not have the Icon RXT, but I know I've read on here where a lot of other guys have not been happy with those springs after a year or so. Supposedly they lose the lift they're supposed to provide. I'm not sure if this is from towing, constant weight in the bed, driving off-road, or other factors. Do a search on here for more info. From what I've seen on here, guys who go with Alcan springs seem the most satisfied, as they are custom engineered for the use the truck will see, not just an off-the-shelf pack.
     
  4. Aug 28, 2020 at 6:53 PM
    #4
    TurboTII

    TurboTII [OP] New Member

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    So instead of those lift bag looking "springs" (Sumo), the suggestion is to use a whole new spring pack and no shackles?
     
  5. Aug 28, 2020 at 9:04 PM
    #5
    BlackSheep

    BlackSheep caffeinated member

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    held together by duct tape and baling wire
    Airbags help with the occasional increased load of towing without wearing out your springs prematurely. Lots of guys on here who tow regularly supplement with them. Shackles will provide some lift and help with ride quality, if you change out the stock rubber leaf bushings in favor of poly bushings. The rubber bushings bind, making the ride bouncier.
     
  6. Oct 19, 2020 at 9:36 PM
    #6
    TundraBrew

    TundraBrew New Member

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    I am also looking at getting either the Sumosprings or the Timbren. Most youtube reviews seem positive, but don't see much talk about them on the Tundra forums.

    Sub'd to see more replies.

    https://www.supersprings.com/products/sumosprings/

    https://timbren.com/p-35852-active-...MI9fjQ36rC7AIV4oNbCh0SsgzWEAAYAyAAEgJUwvD_BwE
     
  7. Feb 1, 2021 at 10:26 PM
    #7
    coastroamer

    coastroamer New Member

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    I have the Firestone airbags on my tundra as I have a four wheel camper that’s on it all the time. It definitely helped with supporting the added weight. I’m also looking into doing a suspension lift and am wondering if replacing the leaf springs would be a good move or overkill considering I have the airbags already. Furthermore, I’m also trying to figure out if I need to install some of those shackles to get extra lift or if just the upgraded shocks (bilstein 5160) that allow for 1.5” lift will suffice. As of now, I have stock shocks. The rear suspension feels supported from the bags however it definitely feels a bit bouncier so I’m hoping that the shock upgrade will stiffen up the ride a bit
     
  8. Feb 2, 2021 at 6:57 AM
    #8
    frichco228

    frichco228 Valued Member

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    Frank
    Virginia
    Vehicle:
    2016 Crewmax 4WD, TRD Offroad
    Eibach Pro Truck Stage 2 suspension, HD RAS, 285/75-18 Nokian Outpost AT, LoPro bed cover, TRD rear sway bar, DD 10 inch exhaust, and various other goodies
    To keep the nice ride of the PRO model, I think I would add shackles to get some rake and then use WDH as usual. If you ever need to change worn suspension or want a lift, that is when I would think about new rear leafs and such.
     

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