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need advice on increasing payload and keeping rear level

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Old 06-02-2015, 07:34 AM
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Default need advice on increasing payload and keeping rear level

whats up fellas, truck is a 2002 ext cab 2wd 1500 silverado. Roughly once a week or once every 2 weeks, I carry about 3500-4000 pounds of payload. I know this isnt really safe, but its only a short distance, maybe 7 miles and its only a one way trip. Plus I have to do it, the money is good

Well last week was my first time loading with this truck, and the frame was sitting right on the axle the entire way, my question is, do you all think putting rear lifting blocks and helper bags would help get the frame off the axle? I looked at some helper bags but the ones I saw had a 2000lb capacity, do they make any with a higher capacity than 2000lbs or what would be my best options? Getting a trailer is not an option also

Last edited by dry_kill; 06-02-2015 at 07:41 AM.
Old 06-02-2015, 08:39 AM
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I have a gauge for that
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A stiffer spring pack and some helper bags would be my suggestion. Youll also want some heavy duty shocks in the rear as well.
Old 06-02-2015, 09:46 AM
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found these, i think this will work

Hellwig # 6012 - Air Helper Springs -1999-2006 Chevy Silverado 1500 - 5000 lbs | SuspensionConnection.com
Old 06-04-2015, 11:53 PM
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air bags and a auto leveling compressor with ride height sensing.
That will do the job for you nicely.
Old 06-05-2015, 08:07 AM
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i have 3/4 ton leafs in the rear and air bags if i need them
Old 06-06-2015, 10:41 PM
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Hellwig makes good products and that price sounds just about right to me. Auto levels probably too expensive for what you are doing.
Old 08-11-2015, 10:10 PM
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Thought I'd add to this thread instead of making a new one as it is somewhat relevant. I have a 03 Z71 and it seems that I have bent my rear leafs into a W shape. As I will be replacing the rear springs anyway I'm thinking that stiffer springs are an obvious choice for both payload and traction. Am I correct on the traction part? And if so what have others used for there 1/2 ton trucks? I should add that I am removing the blocks and doing a 2" shackle drop with a traction aid at some point. This will be for a DD that will be used for light hauling and towing.

Last edited by SCChevy; 08-11-2015 at 10:21 PM.
Old 08-12-2015, 11:14 PM
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I have helper bags and all stock everything else...works great
Old 08-13-2015, 09:52 AM
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helper bags are awesome.
Old 08-14-2015, 03:07 PM
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I think the Hellwig air hepler springs u posted a link to, would be perfect for what your doing, but maybe also 3/4 tons spring or an add-a-leaf kit would help


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