Questions on best option for increasing load capacity (occasional use only)

I've got a 2016 Tundra Limited TRD for which I installed a 2" leveling kit and added 33" tires (Goodyear Duratracs).

I use my truck to pull my 2 horses with a lightweight 2 horse trailer and it does great including dealing with Colorado passes and elevation! My only concern is a handful of times a year, I have a need to pull my horses with a truck full of gear and am concerned about the sag / squat in the rear.

I'm searching for an economical solution to address this. I know air bags would do it but with the built in compressor and remote, it's darn pricey. Airbags also don't lend themselves well to once at the trail head as then I unload the horses and need to 4 wheel in some tough terrain so means deflating them and then re-flate on the way home.

Certainly I am open to adding another support leaf in the rear end if that is the best solution (would appreciate recommendations on this if this is the way to go) but I found these and was curious if anyone has experience with them: https://www.etrailer.com/Vehicle-Su...ml?vehicleid=20161014543#prod-acc-onlyreviews (Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System) ? Are these a viable solution and would they make a good solution to my needs? Appreciate any advice you may have!

 

Welcome,

Search on here for the airbags as well as sumo springs and add a leaf. Good luck with your choice.

 

WELCOME

 

So... not an expert but, to synopsize what I've learned throughout this forum: Nothing 'increases payload'. If you don't want sag for occasional weight, bags are best (because you can air up/down as you add/remove weight). After-market leafs work best when your weight is fairly constant, i.e. if you add leafs to support extra weight, they'll be too stiff when driving unladen. I think your choice will be easiest when you decide which is your priority: function or cost. Maybe someone else will weigh in with an inexpensive alternative.... fingers crossed for you.

 

I'd say airbags with daystar cradles, you can get away with portable compressor until you decide to add an air on-board compressor. The extra benifit is once you do have air on-board, you can then inflate a flat tire if needed. This is the route I am going, been collecting parts, just have a few things left to get.

 

Firestone air bags increase the load level capacity of the rear leaf springs by 5000 pounds.

 

Airbags are the best option for "occasional use". Other solutions will affect the ride quality, even when you are not loaded. I have an auto-level setup on mine. No need to carry air-tanks or portable compressors, or fidget with pressure gauges. It automatically airs up when there is a load, and dumps air when the load is removed. It just works. check out https://www.airliftcompany.com/products/compressor-systems/smartair/

 

Welcome from AZ. Air bags would be a good choice

 

I have air bags. The lines are ran to fittings located on each side of the license plate. I just carry an air gauge and a portable compressor.

Like anything, It can be done simply and relatively inexpensive or you can dump a lot of money into it for more convenience.