Air Bag Kit Recommendation for 5th Wheel Towing with a 2018 Ford F-150

Question:

Hi.... I bought and installed this kit on my 2018 Ford F-150 55inch shortbed. Truck has Max-tow package, 3.0 V6 13.300 GVW. I am pulling a 25foot Forest River 5th wheel I bought Reese bed rails, BandW 16k hitch. The trailer has a Sidewinder pinbox 930 lb hitch weight, 6800 dry weight. My thinking for the install was for extra cushioning I have very little squat when hitched- but I just found that there is enough squat that the bumpers are right on the axle there is no space like I thought there would be. Although trailer pulls great on level road, a severe pothole, dip, etc gives pretty good jar. I assume the bumpers take the hit to what little extent they can compress, then my shocks take the brunt. I havent hit hard enough to hopinch as a result, but I can see the possibility. 1 Do you think shocks can take the abuse, or should I consider airbags? 2 If airbags, I just threw away $250+ for bumpers unless I get the Firestone double-convoluted bags I think they will work with the bumpers? - Any suggestions ? I like how trailer tows on smooth-ish highway, but if I encounter a severe jolt, I dont want things bouncing /skipping around ! Thanks ! -Michael Rhoda

asked by: Michael R

Expert Reply:

Hey Michael, thanks for reaching out!

The Timbren Active Off-Road Bumpstops # T28GR you installed on your 2018 Ford F-150 unfortunately have that reputation among users (although Timbren claims their systems provide a smooth ride). Because of this we typically recommend using the SumoSprings like part # SS95QR instead. The SumoSprings kits do a much better job at providing a comfortable traveling experience.

For an air bag kit I do normally prefer the Firestone kits over the Air Lift brand but in this case the Firestone kits won't fit with a 5th wheel hitch so we'll need to use an Air Lift LoadLifter system (which are still a great system) and for that I recommend part # AL57268 for a 2WD or part # AL57385 for a 4WD.

I also recommend checking out the Air Lift WirelessONE Compressor System # AL25980 because it gives you the ability to monitor and adjust the pressure in your air bags on the fly instead of having to manually do it with the air ports.