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RAS or Sumo Spring

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Old Jul 7, 2022 | 06:50 PM
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Default RAS or Sumo Spring

Looking for some input on what you would recommend. We have a 2020 Grand Design Imagine XLS 22RBE. Weighs around 5350lbs empty & around 6200lbs when we camp. Currently have the Sumo Spring 1000# version on my truck now. Tongue weight per CAT scale is 760lbs & I'm using a Husky Centerline WDH. Still have some squat in the back end I'm looking to get rid of. Looking at the Sumo Spring https://www.superspringsinternationa.../ssr-143-40-2/ or the RAS HD https://activesuspension.com/product...d-2015-2021-hd Any thoughts on which would be better for my setup?
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Old Jul 7, 2022 | 08:41 PM
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I use timbrens (similar to sumo springs) which I find work really well. My trailer is fairly light though at only 5000lbs.

If I was to do it again (and I still might) I'd go with RAS. Specifically the HD version (because why not). I've done quite a bit of research and RAS seems like a really really good system with tonnes of praise from everyone who installs.
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Old Jul 7, 2022 | 08:42 PM
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I bought HD RAS for my 2020 screw F150 2.7L with PPAA spring code towing my Grand Design 2400BH tt with Husky Roundbar 30849 WDH. I went a little bit past the 1mm spacer (maybe 1.2-1.4mm) and in doing so removed an inch of squat loaded and added half an inch of rake unloaded. In combination with adjusting my WDH to significantly tighten the spring bars I eliminated 2 inches of squat in total (1 with WDH, 1 with RAS) to get my truck level when towing my tt. RAS was really easy to install only requiring that I raise the back of my truck on jack stands so the wheels are floating. After that I could just reach around the tires (though removing them would definitely make access easier) and install RAS without having to remove a single part. I only have good things to say about my experience with RAS. I have no experience with Sumo springs or Timbrens and so cannot compare. When I did my own research between these products I went with RAS for two primary reasons: 1) RAS is adjustable, you can experiment to find what tension works best for you, and 2) I read/watched some reviews of Sumo and Timbren products that said the suspension travel on bumps when unloaded would transition abruptly from soft to hard as the rear axle begins to hit the springs creating a worse driving experience. I don't know to what extent this is true if any. What I can say about RAS is it makes the suspension more firm when unladen but in a continuous and non-harsh way. My personal preference is I like it better than the original springs. It also helps with reduce body roll on turns since RAS is engaged for any amount of suspension travel, and it greatly eliminates wheel hop if you like to mash the pedal for spirited acceleration once in a while.
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Old Jul 7, 2022 | 11:51 PM
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Before you run off for another solution, if you have not, check the tongue weight of your loaded trailer to ensure you are running the correct capacity bars, and also check your axle weights and height to ensure you are dialing in enough leverage.
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Old Jul 8, 2022 | 08:56 AM
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Having had the two, RAS hands down. Makes the truck feel better when not hitched as well.
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Old Jul 16, 2022 | 12:17 AM
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Default RAS

Originally Posted by Scott902
Having had the two, RAS hands down. Makes the truck feel better when not hitched as well.

another vote for RAS it truly improved my empty ride as well
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Old Jul 16, 2022 | 06:49 AM
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Another vote for the RAS here. It vastly improved the ride in the truck both when towing and unloaded.
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Old Jul 18, 2022 | 12:35 PM
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I have Sumo on the F150, and RAS on my F350. I put them on to help the OEM sagging leafs, and didn't do much when loaded. I put new 4400 pound springs on and now, yes, they make a difference. On the F150 Sumo worked fine, its the WDH setup that makes or breaks it. Too light and it wont level the truck, too heavy and they will level the truck but not provide enough sway control, so they must be matched to the tongue weight.

IOW either Sumo or RAS will help the ride, but to get level, you should first start with the WDH. RAS adds spring when empty, Sumo don't do anything empty. I notice a bit more bounce when empty in the F350 than before RAS was installed, and thats my only complaint with them. Oh, and if you are in the salt belt, Paint them when you install them as they RUST!
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