Sierra sags when loaded

dawgfan · April 7, 2004

When I load my atv, the bed sags. Is there a mod to compensate for added 500lbs or so. When I get a load of dirt or bark I expect the bed to drop and make the front end higher than the back, but not with a 4 wheeler only.

Worktruck · April 7, 2004

I used an add-a-leaf kit from Hellwig. Also can lift the rear a couple of inches if desired.

Shaners · April 7, 2004

If you have cranked your front torsion bars at all, thenI wouldn't be surprised if your truck appears to be sagging in the rear.

Hellwig makes some good stuff, and the add-a-leaf is probably the way to go...

dawgfan · April 7, 2004

I'm a real novice. I have no idea how to crank a torsion bar. Are you saying there may be an adjustment I can do without buying add-on equipment?

gave20 · April 7, 2004

It sounds like you haven't cranked your torsion bars. If you do/did this will raise the front of the truck to give a level appearance when unloaded. When you put a load in the bed with a level truck the back end will sag. You can replace the shocks or add heavier leaf springs to stiffen the ride and compensate for the weight with items like worktruck was suggesting. Is your truck new or used? If used and it sits level unloaded the T bars are probably cranked loosening them will help.

dawgfan · April 7, 2004

It's a 99 Sierra 1500 and I bought it new. Nothing has been adjusted on it. Unloaded, it appears to have a slight tilt to the front and loaded it has a slight tilt to the rear.

Wingnut · April 7, 2004

500 lbs, it should sag a little, but not much.

My quad, and all the gear that I throw back there with it...Probably is close to 500-550 lbs (quad is 400 by itself) and my truck doesn't hardly squat.

You could always use the add-a-leaf system, and if it lifts the back too far, add the Velvet ride shackles, which will soften up the ride, and drops it back down an inch or so...But that's just an off the wall idea.

Is your truck 2wd, or 4wd?

dawgfan · April 7, 2004

2wd, std cab, short bed.

superbee · April 7, 2004

Helwig has add a leafs that add as little as 750# I think. They are really easy to put on and won't lift you noticeably. They go on with two u bolts, VERY easy. My wife could probably put them on. Whitney (I know, I know) has some good prices, make sure to get the price with the hardware kit.