Air Helper Springs Recommendation For a 2002 Dodge Durango

Question:

I need air bags for my 2002 Durango 4WD 5.9, or something to beef up the rear end I was looking at either the Firestone or Airbag brands Your recommendation on first choice of load levelers Would you suggest a on board compressor?

asked by: Rick

Expert Reply:

If you were interested in towing a trailer, and were planning on using the suspension system to overcome the sag that occurs when the trailer is hitched, I would recommend using a weight distribution system, like part # RP66074, that is properly sized for towing the trailer you will be towing with your Durango, as long as the hitch on you Durango is compatible with weight distribution systems. The reason I do not recommend going with an air bag or suspension helper like Timbren, is that weight distribution will spread the tongue weight of the trailer across all the axles of the vehicle and trailer rather than just reducing sag at the rear of the vehicle. Weight distribution makes for a much better towing experience and it is safer because the tongue weight of the trailer does not reduce steering and cause tire wear like it does without weight distribution.

To properly choose a weight distribution system for your trailer, the trailer tongue weight is needed. I have added a couple of articles on weight distribution that should be helpful, one of which explains how to weigh your tongue weight in a couple of different ways.

If you are looking at air bags or helper springs for your Durango because you carry heavy loads inside the vehicle, then I would recommend going with the Air Lift Ride Control Air Helper Springs, # AL59529. The main reason for recommending Air Lift is that the complete system is more economical than the Firestone system. Both systems are quality load leveling and suspension helper systems and the Firestone brand is a leader in the industry.

If you wanted to be able to add air to the springs with an on board compressor there are two choices that I would recommend. First, if your loads are normally centered in the back of the vehicle and you do not need side to side leveling, the single path Air Lift Load Controller II Compressor System, # AL25592, would be a good choice. If side to side leveling is desired, you could go with the dual path Air Lift Load Controller I Compressor System, # AL25651, which will allow you to add air to each spring separately.

If you go with air bags, definitely invest in the Air Lift Air Hose Cutter, # AL10530, which makes trimming the air line straight for a good seal a breeze.