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What's the best way to upgrade the rear suspension for payload?
I have a 2005 Lariat Supercab 4x4. The GVWR is 7200 lbs and I want to know if I need different shocks or other stuff. I would like to comfortably carry a full 2000 pounds in the bed if possible. Right now stock payload in the bed is just over 1,600 pounds, and has a 3.73 LS diff. Here are some pitures of my springs, shock, and bump stop so you guys can better help me.
Be advised, you're going to catch some heat for asking how to violate your door sticker, and I certainly wouldn't want to aid or abet you in this endeavor. Now that being said...
A set of airbags is a really good way to take the squat out of a heavily loaded truck. A lot of people like Timbrens or Sumo Springs, but I personally prefer the adjustability of the airbags. Once you have the suspension enhancement in place, get a good (read expensive) set of shocks and your truck will be in top form for operating right at the legal posted limit in the door jamb.
Exceeding payload isn't just a suspension OR FRAME thing. Are your brakes up to the task? Back in the 30s before finite-element analysis, some parts of trucks were overbuilt, and some light trucks used heavy parts. Not today. The whole truck is engineered to meet a certain payload capacity. Increasing it safely can't be done without rebuilding the truck, which is more expensive than buying a truck built for more payload.
...and there are legal & insurance considerations. Some states & countries check that kind of thing, and will bust you for going over. If your insurance finds out, they may refuse coverage after you wreck it. And if anyone gets hurt, you may be personally liable for their injuries & losses.
Exceeding payload isn't just a suspension OR FRAME thing. Are your brakes up to the task? Back in the 30s before finite-element analysis, some parts of trucks were overbuilt, and some light trucks used heavy parts. Not today. The whole truck is engineered to meet a certain payload capacity. Increasing it safely can't be done without rebuilding the truck, which is more expensive than buying a truck built for more payload.
...and there are legal & insurance considerations. Some states & countries check that kind of thing, and will bust you for going over. If your insurance finds out, they may refuse coverage after you wreck it. And if anyone gets hurt, you may be personally liable for their injuries & losses.
The brakes better be up to the task. He can certainly tow more than a ton. And he can even do so legally without trailer brakes in most places.
I get what you're saying, it's not just one component that determines payload, it is a combination of several parts and systems, but the brakes aren't it.
01-10-2018, 09:39 PM
What's the best way to upgrade the rear suspension for payload?
