Comparing Air Springs And A RAS System For A 2022 GMC Sierra 2500 Hauling A 10-12K 5th Wheel Trailer

Question:

I’m tore between road active suspension leaf spring and air bags I have a 2022 gmc 3/4 ton hd truck I pull a 40 foot fifth wheel weighing v approximately ten to twelve pounds the truck is primarily used for pulling the fifth wheel and a little non pulling around town what would your suggestion for me Ty

asked by: Tom M

Expert Reply:

Hey Tom,

Both are great options but it's really going to come down to how much you tow and how much maintenance you want to do. Air springs offer adjustability and a higher capacity to help level out the truck but require you to monitor and adjust your psi levels. You'll also have the cost of an on-board air compressor to add into the mix unless you're fine with just stopping at gas stations for their air machine.

The RoadActive Suspension simply clamps on to the leaf springs and requires zero maintenance after installation. It has a lower capacity than an air spring and adjustment is pretty limited but it will affect the unloaded ride quality the least.

If you're towing just this trailer and maybe hauling around a few heavy items occasionally I'd go with the RAS # RAS3611-HD. It's so easy to install and is ready to go whenever you are so you won't have to stop and make adjustments.

If you plan on towing different trailers with different GVWR's then Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs # F2613 would be the better option since you can adjust them to make back and forth and find the sweet spot for leveling and ride quality. This will be quite a bit more work to install and then monitor/adjust.

If you go with air springs and want an on-board air compressor then I recommend the Air Lift WirelessONE Compressor System # AL25980EZ. This system comes with an EZ-mount bracket so you won't have to drill into the frame rail as well as a remote and Bluetooth app to monitor/adjust the psi levels, without having to drill a gauge into the dash.