timrens YES or NO

[billy]

I have a 2000 chevy 2500 4wd. I am looking to beef up the rear suspension for more load capacitiy. When i put 1.5 yds of bulk salt in the bed it drops so low. I put the same load in my dodge 2500 and it sits much higher. So I hear alot about TIMBRENS, and considering them or adding a extra leaf spring. What would you consider better? Are they easy to install? Or do I have to go to a dealer? What do they cost?

Thanks for your help!!!!!!

[urethane dino]

The dodges sit higher period. It doesnt mean that the bump stops are not close to hitting the axel.
Timbrens are easy to install and they really do work. They cost around 200.00 or so for the rears. Are easier to install and should cost less then an add a leaf.
As a side note the 1.5 yards of salt may be overloading the truck at any rate.
Dino

[4evergreenlawns]

Even if it is overloading the truck EVERY other P/U on the road with a V box is overloaded and most guys do NOTHING to handle the loading. Normal condition that apply to safe operation and GVWR can be tossed aside as soon as the first snow flake falls of there is the slightest amount of ice on the ground.

If you work the truck alot do both. It will help reduce the stress on the drive line, and rearend by supporting the load more with the suspension.

I started out with just the Timbren and that did the added leaf alitle later too. Huge difference mainly in the pitch and roll. The Timbrens front and back around 300.00 and one hour of my time. The rear spring leafs about 250.00 and one hour while I watched.

Beside the fact that I run a 2 yrd V box in my 2500HD. Keep in mind the V box will empty from front to rear. So the load to the rear of the rearend is there until you are empty. That is why I made the change. Also if you are using this truck in the summer for work Mulch, topsoil, sod, clean ups and trailering will all take its toll on the suspension over time. IMHO it will be money well spent.

[Prosno]

I have them on all my trucks, helps big time! Now when I stack snow I dont stress out the front leafs the timbrens kick in and the truck feels more stable. I love em.

[John DiMartino]

Billy ,if you work the truck all 4 seasons and you dont mind the slightly stiffer ride ,ID add a leaf,or do airbags.If you only load it in winter id add the timbrens. If you want the truck to sit level loaded,get airbags.
Dino the Dodges do sit higher,but the rake is about the same 2-3" lower in the front than rear,they also have a heavier spring rate.The spring set on my 2500GMC were out a 982500hd,and the truck squats a lot more the the Dodge with equal weight.The GMC does however ride a tad better,just a trade off,IMO.

[GLS]

You may also want to consider overload springs. That is what I have on my truck. There is a set of about 3 springs that contact only when there is a load. They work great, but if you're on bumpy terrain the truck can bounce up and down and slam down on them. I can post a pic if you want.

I would like to eventually go to airbags. Expensive, but it would be nice. Smooth ride unloaded, and variable pressure when loaded.

[billy]

Thanks guys for your opinion!! I'm going to figure out the best way to go. I do use the truck for lanscaping and snow so it is working all year round. I'm leaning toward leaf spring..

[BRL]

I'll add my vote for both as well, add a leaf & Timbrens. And Timbrens on the front if there is a plow there.