leaf springs

chuck machinist

Well-known Member
My 2011 Chevy z-71 61/2' bed has 3 leafsprings.I would like to go to 4 spring upgrade. Is there any thing I would be leaving out of the equation ,or could that be a straight out swap ? Thanks in advance
 
Adding a leaf is one way to do it, but it will be a stiff ride empty.

Might want to look into some overload springs. They only make contact when extra weight is added, therefore not compromising ride when not needed.
 
Have you ever looked into an air bag set up? With that you could drop the air preasure for a softer ride when running empty.Is the Z-71 a 4x4 or 2wd ? I have 97 GMC k-1500 and rear 3 leaf spring set up and is so stiff that it rides like a lumber wagon.
 
The Z-71 is 4wd ,and that timbren set up is exactly what I need.. We will be towing a Texas bragg 18'ccc#5200 lb tandom axle car hauler. Thanks fellows!
 
(quoted from post at 04:46:40 03/23/14) The Z-71 is 4wd ,and that timbren set up is exactly what I need.. We will be towing a Texas bragg 18'ccc#5200 lb tandom axle car hauler. Thanks fellows!

Glad to help!
 
You can buy add-a-leaf kits, helper springs (Hellwig is one brand), air bags, or even coil over shocks. I think the coil over shocks are good for about 500lbs extra capacity. Helper springs can be full-time or progressive and in the 2500-3500lbs range. I think the air bags are generally rated for 2500 and 5000lbs depending on the kit.
 
If you can get it get the set up so you can control pressure from inside cab. Lot nicer than having to get out of truck to set or release pressure.
 
I would second the air bag kit. I added a leaf on my truck and it beats the ever living snot out of the truck. I got things rattling all over the place.
 
I have Firestone airbags on my GMC 2500 for over 10 years and have had no trouble--10 psi when empty and 60 psi to carry a 3200 lb slide in---
 
Helper springs and air bags are OK for occasional overloads or offroad use. If you will be carring heavier loads often will you upgrade the tires, wheels, brakes, axle and frame for the heavier load too? Sometimes it's simpler to trade for a heavier truck or tow a trailer with trailer brakes.

Good luck.
 
Never used them, but when looking a different options, I always came back to air bags. They give you stock ride, but also give you the ability to handle a lot of weight. You'll want to be careful not to overload the truck as well.
 

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