leaf springs / air bags? need to be able to haul more weight

[eltravisto]

Hi guys -

I have a 2006 250 that I would like to squeak some more payload capacity out of ie turn into a 350

I know the 350 is really just and HD 250 so I'm thinking springs leafs etc could be an option.

Air bags?

Anyone out there run anything like this or know the best route to chase?


thanks,

eltravisto

[choupique108]

the only difference between a 250 and a 350 is the amount of rear springs and load capacity, and the dually have a different rear axel.

Air bags would help a little bit but they wouldnt add all that much weight carring capacity... They would more or less help with handleing and squatting issues.

[elm302]

Air bags are the way to go cause when you need to haul mote weight air them up when not hauling let the air out and you have a good ride again. I have a set of air lift bags for sale if your interested let me know.

[Drew60diesel]

im going to put the air bag setup on mine soon. it squats to much with a loaded trailer. i no some guys that have them and they love em!

[navyeoseabee]

WOW! i just found this thread, i was searching to find the different part numbers in the leaf spring sets.

i am actually leaving right now to pick up some f350 springs for my 2006 f250 i didn't want to do the air bags due to the air compressor(i wouldn't want to go without one mounted on the truck)nor deal with a leaking air bag like my father in law.

[Betaracer]

F250 and F350 use the same leafs. The only difference is that the F350 has a taller block which raises the back, and takes more weight to squat it beyong level.

Air bags are the way to go since you get the best of both worlds. Buy a porable 12V compressor and either a longer hose or an extension cord.

[Tsgs69400]

Originally Posted by Betaracer

F250 and F350 use the same leafs. The only difference is that the F350 has a taller block which raises the back, and takes more weight to squat it beyong level.

Air bags are the way to go since you get the best of both worlds. Buy a porable 12V compressor and either a longer hose or an extension cord.

Actually, most f-350's have 1 more leaf than the 250's

[CT Performance, Inc.]

Well not always..many different springs are used by Ford..drives me nuts..couple of things for the OP..get the top overload springs and spacer if you can. you will need the frame stops. make a 2" spacer that you bolt to the top overload spring directly under the frame stops..1/2" hole drilled Thur the spring so you can bolt the spacers on. Install them before loading, this will bring on the extra capacity without the rear drooping 2"

[eltravisto]

hey guys - sorry i put this up and stepped away from the post.

Actually went with a combo - add a leaf kit from jegs (insert part number here) and a 12v compressor w/ airbags (compressor from Sears online, again i need to insert a part number).

Bascially I have one hell of a hauler. I will up load pics of the process after I add an avatar and make myself look a little more official on here

The tricky part - and I would like to say I say some of this coming. I took my front springs to a local shop and told them to be ready to remake a set to level the truck out. Had to raise the nose about 5 inches to level out the rake of the truck.

Total cost of this mod - 700. Cheaper than buying the 350 at the dealer.

...but who uses the dealer anyhow...

Thanks for the advice. Now for biodiesel, oil bypass, air intake..... can I borrow some $$?