[Blind Owl]

My 96 T100 with 180,000 miles is running as strong as ever. But, the rear leaf springs seem to be getting a bit soft.

I have considered adding helper springs, but there is a brake system valve attached to the rear end, and I have read that adding helper springs will change how the valve works.

Is this really a problem if I add the springs?

Thanks much.

 

[BamZipPow]

My Roadmaster Active Suspension install...

 

[Ledvette77]

I put an add-a-leaf pair on mine to give it a bit of lift and when I ordered them they came with a bracket to adjust the proportioning valve, which is what you are talking about, it's attached to the rear diff. I will take a picture of it when I can. It would be really easy to fab one up. Just a couple of holes in a piece of steel. But if the leaves are starting to sag then putting some helper springs back there shouldn't mess with it much at all anyway. Helper springs, like bam's RAS, aren't meant to lift just "help" with a load once it is put on the leaves. So I'll get that pic up asap, I'm on a road trip right now but I'll see if I can't sqeeze one in by tommorow night.

BTW, Bam, when are you going to start getting paid for endorsing RAS so much?? lol but I don't blame you, I'm gettin one as soon as I can afford it.

 

[BamZipPow]

BTW, Bam, when are you going to start getting paid for endorsing RAS so much?? lol but I don't blame you, I'm gettin one as soon as I can afford it.

I'm gonna see how much it will cost to git the new bracket. Seems like it's much easier to install then the previous generations.

I guess I'll git paid the same time Toyota ponies up some cash fer me promoting the T-100 just as much...

 

[Zuke76]

I didn't have a ton of money to spend on the T so I went with Hellwig EZ 550 helper springs for $50 (I got them for $20 off craigslist). They work great and it improved the ride with and without a load. The big bonus I like is that you don't have to unbolt the leaf pack. The EZ 1000 are 2 EZ 550 on each leaf pack they run about $100.

http://www.hellwigproducts.com/products/load-control/medium-duty-helper-springs/

 

[Blind Owl]

Thanks for the help, guys. I think I might try the hellwig 550s.

 

[Ledvette77]

I know it's a little late but if you get anything that lifts the rear end too much here is a pic of that proportioning valve extension bracket.

 

[Blind Owl]

Thank you.

 

[BamZipPow]

Thank you.

Click that "Thanks" button if you don't mind...

 

[Blind Owl]

Where is the 'Thanks' button located?

 

[BamZipPow]

Where is the 'Thanks' button located?

Bottom right of each of the replies that aren't yers. Just click the "Thanks" button fer those replies that helped you.

It looks like this...

 

[roscodog01]

Hey Blind Owl, did you ever put those Hellwig 550's on your truck? and if so what did you think of them, did they solve the saggy tail end? having the same issue with my T and was debating add-a-leaf or the Hellwigs

 

[Blind Owl]

Yes I did. Sorry for not getting back sooner, and reporting how they have worked.

The Hellwig 550s have been on the truck now for about 2 months, and they have exceeded my expectations, regarding how well they work. The result of the installation is that, first, the ride is a bit stiffer. Second, and more important, the truck steers and handles better when cruising. The back end was getting a tad saggy and would lean when cornering. With the beefed up support the truck rides more level in the rear, and seems to track and steer with more responsiveness in the front. Overall, the handling and steering just feels tighter.

My opinion is that I am very happy with them and would recommend them. Thanks for asking.:thumbsup:

 

[roscodog01]

Just ordered my Hellwig 550's from Amazon for 42.00$ with free shipping : ) I should have them on within the week, i am excited to try them...... will post an update and maybe some pic's : ) ............

-Yota4life