Question About Air Helper Springs

[BillH]

I would like to add to the load carrying capacity on my 2004 Sierra 1500, and also lift the rear just a little. I have a pair of 1.5" add-a-leafs in the rear, and was thinking of adding Firestone air helper springs so that I could take some of the load off the leaf springs when I'm hauling firewood or other heavy loads. Would these air helpers also give me some extra height when empty (1/2"-3/4") if I wanted it ? The truck has Bilstien shocks that are rated for 0-3" lift, so I think that they would still be ok.

Thanks.

[merlin5577]

I would like to add to the load carrying capacity on my 2004 Sierra 1500, and also lift the rear just a little. I have a pair of 1.5" add-a-leafs in the rear, and was thinking of adding Firestone air helper springs so that I could take some of the load off the leaf springs when I'm hauling firewood or other heavy loads. Would these air helpers also give me some extra height when empty (1/2"-3/4") if I wanted it ? The truck has Bilstien shocks that are rated for 0-3" lift, so I think that they would still be ok.

Thanks.

 

The air bag kit should have a regulator to adjust pressure (to change height) on it. You should be able to adjust the ride height of the truck using that.

[03blackz71]

Yes it will but it will also make the ride alot more stiffer.

[thunder219]

I can raise the back of my truck up around 3" if I put around 70 pounds in, but you wont enjoy the ride much. I put around 20 or 30 pounds in with my boat or snowmobile trailers and helps alot since the suspension is so soft on the newer trucks. If you leave too much air in them unloaded on my truck it will just about catapult you through the windshield on a country road.

[BillH]

Thanks for the help on this question. I plan to get air helpers, but I'm not sure what brand is best to go with: Firestone, Airlift or Hellwig. Anyone have experience with these?

Thanks

2004 Sierra 1500 Z71

[thunder219]

 

I went with the firestone bags just because thats what my buddy that sells bags said to get. I got the 5000 pound ones but I have heard the 3500 pound ones ride a little better unloaded. I dont have a picture of the bags on but I have where I mounted the air valve. I tied both together rather than individual because I only use them for the pulling trailer and it is pretty level.