Question Suspension replacement for towing - Toyota Tundra Forums : Tundra Solutions Forum

kingbert99 · #1 (**permalink**) 03-22-2009, 02:02 PM

Hey gang,
I've got an '03 2WD access cab Tundra with TRD pkg and stock bilsteins. Truck's got about 70k miles and started towing a 20' toy hauler last year. I'm starting to suspect my shocks are failing due to the bouncing I get on highway and city bumps.

I'm looking for a few things:
1) Advice on how to tell if the shocks need replacement
2) Recommendations on what to get if they need replaced
3) Value in adding air bags to the new set-up if needed

Since this deals with towing and suspension, I didn't know which forum it should go under. Please point me in the right direction if I need to re-post!

Thanks,

KB99

tomhole · #2 (**permalink**) 03-22-2009, 02:45 PM

KB,

Do you use a weight distribution hitch with your trailer?

Tom

kingbert99 · #3 (**permalink**) 03-22-2009, 08:19 PM

Tom,
I do. I have a WD/Swaybar combo unit whose brandname escapes me at the moment. I have the hitch set up pretty well now (it took some tweaking) but intend on making a trip to the scales in two weeks just to be sure.

For some reason I feel like I'm committing a minor crime asking about air rides when I have a WD hitch, but this forum is the best source of knowledge for someone to set me straight before I get in over my head and waste time/money.

So, long answer to your question is, "yes...I use a weight distribution hitch."

tomhole · #4 (**permalink**) 03-22-2009, 09:50 PM

Excellent. Then you are looking to add airbags for the exact same reason I added them to my 2005 and now my 2008 Tundras. You could just add the Rancho RS9000 adjustable shocks. That might be just the ticket for your situation.

If you do decide to add bags, they are easy to install and will accomplish what you desire: less bouncies. I would also recommend LT tires vs. P rated. That helps a lot. And keep those tire pressures at max on the trailer.

Let us know what you decide.

Tom

kingbert99 · #5 (**permalink**) 03-25-2009, 09:27 PM

I went online looking for the Ranchos and it looked like the RS9000s were only available in the rear for 4WD models. I've got a 2WD model -- can anyone confirm if they're limited one way or the other?

I just noticed that my profile says "lurking member." Wow. That's pretty ominous. I feel dirty now for some reason.

So back to the shocks...any love for a 2WD?

svedspx · #6 (**permalink**) 04-02-2009, 03:34 PM

The Rancho 9000xl's are available for the rear in both 2wd and 4wd. They are only available for the front in 4wd trucks. I've had a set on my RCSB 2wd for a year and a half and I'm happy with them. I started towing a 7200# 5th wheel and added airbags. The airbags and shocks make a good combo.