Suspension for towing

[bashmanx]

Hey guys, I have a 1992 gmc 2500 extended cab and I'm going to be setting it up for towing a car hauling trailer. I need to change the rear shocks becuase when I fill my current trailer the rear end sags pretty bad. My questions are: What shocks are the best in your experience for such an application? Would I need to change the leaf springs as well? I have to have electric brakes on my trailer, so is there a brand of brake controlers that is better than the others? Thanks for helping a newbie out. Brett

[00Silverado4x4]

No matter what shocks you go with you will have the same sag. Shocks absorb the bouncing in suspension as you drive, the springs are what is holding the load "up". If you are sagging real bad, you need to be looking at the weight your putting in the bed/tongue weight. If your springs are getting weak then yes maybe new springs, add a leaf, air bags are all options to you.

 

I don't have any suggestions as to specific products. I'd take a look down through the trailer/towing section and there is a wealth of threads that'll give you personal experiences/preferences.

 

On my rig (mind you I drive a 1500) I have Monroe Relflexes and eventually want to put on an add a leaf.

[r1byker]

I installed air bags specifically for when I tow my trailer when it's fully loaded. That way, I don't have as rough a ride when I'm not towing. I have Firestone Ride Rites; they were easy to install and have held up well. I chose them because they are the same design as the air bags on my work Class 8 tractor.

[travis73]

do you have weight distributing bars,if not you may want to consider getting a set.

[brainpause]

Tekonsha Prodigy is the brake controlling you need. Look around....You can probably find it for $99 on the net, and a few bucks mire for harness, if it is available for that year.

 

I will also second looking for a weight distribution hitch. The Equalizer is good, or look at the P3 ProPride at http://leaningcedar.com for the top notch hitch.

 

Disclosure: I own Leaningcedar.com, but I made the same exact recommendations before I started selling them.

 

 

 

[brainpause]

Found it for ya.

 

http://www.rvwholesalers.com/catalog/prodigy_p2-electronic-brake-control-by-tekonsha-new-17-0091.html

 

[bashmanx]

Thanks for your help guys. Would I have to replace the leaf springs if I were to add leafs, Or can I just add the leaf?

[dodge123]

I really like my Prodigy P2. I can almost hit the brakes as if the trailer wasnt even there.

[SouthCo]

Thanks for your help guys. Would I have to replace the leaf springs if I were to add leafs, Or can I just add the leaf?

 

 

In a 20 year old truck, I'd replace the leafs and not just add a leaf if I was going to do any serious towing.