Recommended Weight Distribution And Air Suspension Kit For 2016 Ram 1500 Crew Cab

Question:

I have a 2016 Ram 1500 Crew, 5.7l. I will need to tow a 9,000 lb trailer that may have a tongue weight up to 1,500 lbs. I will be using a load distribution hitch in the appropriate hitch. The factory coil springs alone are useless in this scenario so Im looking at the air lift 5000. Does this solve my problem for rear end sag and proper leveling of the truck? Thank you

asked by: John

Helpful Expert Reply:

You are experiencing the same problem many people find when trying to tow a heavy trailer. The tongue weight is heavy and causes the rear of the towing vehicle to sag and the headlights to point upwards, not to mention making it tougher to drive because the front end is lifted. A weight distribution system that is installed properly will eliminate the need for an air suspension system upgrade in many cases.

The most important thing to know is the total tongue weight. This is the tongue weight of the fully-loaded-ready-to-tow-trailer added to the weight of any cargo placed behind the rear axle of the towing vehicle. You want to choose a WD system where the total tongue weight falls somewhere near the middle of the system tongue weight range.

For example, if your total tongue weight is 1,500-lbs a system like the Reese Strait-Line, part # RP66075 would work great. This system has a tongue weight capacity between 1000 and 1700 lbs. This system has dual-cam sway control included that helps stop trailer sway before it begins.

For a hitch ball I recommend part # 63840. this is a 2-5/16 inch hitch ball.

If you find you still need air springs, the Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 Air Helper Springs, part # AL88365, would be a great choice for your Ram 1500 Crew Cab. These springs help keep your truck level and absorb road shock and also helps with sway when cornering.

If you wish to control the amount of air in the suspension system from the comfort of your truck cab I recommend the Air Lift Load Controller Compressor System, part # AL25856. This is a dual-path system that lets you control the amount of air you place in the springs for each side.