Last week we suggested a few things to remember when you are looking for a helper spring to install on your vehicle.
This week we’re continuing with our comparison of Add a leaf, Air ride and Timbren SES.
Quiet or noisy?
If you own a brand new pickup that rides smooth and quiet, the last thing you want is noise coming from the suspension.
- Add a leaf under certain conditions can cause a ‘creaking’ sound (metal on metal).
- Air ride suspensions use compressors. A compressor can be noisy when it starts up trying to make ride height adjustments.
- Timbren SES kits have rubber springs that insulate vibration while under load.
Better Ride Quality?
Helper springs sometimes affect ride quality. Which system gives you both added capacity and ride quality?
- Add a leaf can increase capacity (up to 800 lb.) but will affect the unloaded ride quality.
- Air ride is always inflated, which can affect the unloaded ride quality.
- Timbren SES kits do not engage with the axle until there is a load. The unloaded ride is not affected (unless there is insufficient space between rubber spring and axle.
Added stability?
Ideally, you want your helper springs to reduce roll and sway.
- Add a leaf will stabilize the load, helping to reduce body roll.
- Air ride becomes unstable under a load, unable to adjust quickly enough to the roll and sway caused when you override the suspension.
- Timbren SES rubber springs help stabilize the load, levelling the truck, front to back and side to side. There are also severe service kits for extreme instability.
Before you purchase a helper spring for your truck suspension, make sure the system is quiet, maintains good ride quality loaded and unloaded, and reduces body roll and sway.
Next week: Part 4
