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Upgrading Suspension

Steve Hougham
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Steve Hougham Enthusiast

Steve Hougham

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I have a 2020 HD 2500 Diesel Silverado High Country and was going to order a new 2024 HD 3500 but was wondering if I can just swap out the rear leaf springs and shocks to 3500 springs and shocks. I know that it would not make it a true 3500 but it should increase payload some I would think. My question is can you actually do that swap? Are they the same length? 

ssgballistics Enthusiast

ssgballistics

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On 6/29/2023 at 8:09 AM, Steve Hougham said:

I have a 2020 HD 2500 Diesel Silverado High Country and was going to order a new 2024 HD 3500 but was wondering if I can just swap out the rear leaf springs and shocks to 3500 springs and shocks. I know that it would not make it a true 3500 but it should increase payload some I would think. My question is can you actually do that swap? Are they the same length? 

It would probably be easier and more economical to install Timbrens or roadmaster active suspension. These would help control weight. We put timbrens on my dads 03 2500 farm truck. They made a huge difference when hauling heavy. You technically cannot increase your payload, but you can help your truck carry load easier. 

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  • 2 weeks later...
Kerry Pulaski Enthusiast

Kerry Pulaski

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Posted

I put Firestone 3500 Lb. capacity Air Bags on the rear of my '16 2500HD Duramax. Huge difference. Before, even with light payloads, was hitting the rubber bump stops.

Also added a Rear Anti-Sway / Roll Bar kit from Roadmaster. 1-1/2" diameter bar. Excellent product, and fit & finish.  Incredible improvement in handling / drive-ability.

Hellwig Inc. also makes these rear bar kits. Largest dia. kit is called "Big Wig".

For a camper haul, I'd also look into getting Drilled & Slotted F & R Brake Rotors, like from "Power Stop" or others. To reduce brake fade from heat.

MTU Alum Enthusiast

MTU Alum

Posted
Posted
On 6/29/2023 at 8:09 AM, Steve Hougham said:

I have a 2020 HD 2500 Diesel Silverado High Country and was going to order a new 2024 HD 3500 but was wondering if I can just swap out the rear leaf springs and shocks to 3500 springs and shocks. I know that it would not make it a true 3500 but it should increase payload some I would think. My question is can you actually do that swap? Are they the same length? 

 

3500 hd parts do bolt in.  If you have a crew cab short box (standard box), you will not have the nuts in frame to attach all the over load spring stops.  

 

I wouldn't recommend any of these suspension modifications.  They are good for ride but can make your truck dangerous for evasive handling.  Not looking to start fights here but, I driven the Firestone setup and won't put my family in it with a srw truck.

 

#iworkforGM

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