Choosing Between Coil Sumo Springs and Firestone Coil-Rite Helper Springs on 2012 Toyota RAV4

Question:

I have a 2012 RAV4 V6 4 wheel drive, and I tow a 19foot boat. The boat and trailer weigh 3400 lbs. with a tongue weight of about 200 lbs. The rear of the vehicle squats about 1-1/2 inch with the boat hooked up. Im looking at the SumoSprings part number CSS-1125R and the Firestone Coil -Rite air helper springs part number F4174. Im wondering which will give me the best chance of a restored ride height. Also, what are the advantages or disadvantages of each. Thanks in advance for your help.

asked by: Donald F

Expert Reply:

A suspension enhancement product like the SumoSprings # CSS-1125R or Firestone Coil-Rite # F4174 are primarily designed to suspend the weight of cargo carried in the vehicle itself. It's not always the best choice for counteracting the vehicle squat caused by the tongue weight of a trailer being applied to the vehicle. The SumoSpring or Coil-Rite can in some circumstances act like a fulcrum, causing the load on the front axle to lighten, which can lead to decreased braking performance and diminished steering response. However, given the very low 200 lb TW you're dealing with, this won't be a problem.

The Coil Sumo Spring would be a bit easier to install, but I'd personally go with the Firestone Coil Rite # F4174 because you can adjust the pressure in the air springs. The tongue weight of your boat won't change much, but the amount of weight carried in the cargo area of your RAV4 will vary from trip to trip.

expert reply by: Mike L