Alternatives to Hellwig overload springs

I’ve done searches on TW, but haven’t found exactly what I’m looking for. I have a 2015 Taco Sport with hellwig overload springs, I believe they’re the EZ-990 Helper Spring Kit. I like them, especially during hunting season when picking up bait. However, my wife doesn’t like the rear axle hopping around when it’s empty. I’d like to hear alternatives, sumos or trimbren with stock springs. Thanks

 

If your leaf pak is still healthy you might consider the Roadmaster Active Suspension (RAS). I have used them on three of my previous trucks (all with Leer caps) and was always satisfied with how they handled loaded and unloaded. The three trucks were not Tacomas, but one S-10 and two Dakotas, all 4x4. Now as for my Tacoma, the RAS worked pretty good, but still a little too much sag when fully loaded for a week of camping and hauling dirt bikes. To help with that I added Sumo Springs and along with the RAS, the Tacoma handles the load and still has a good empty ride. Again I have a 200+lbs cap on it, so technically I guess it's not empty.

The price now is not what I paid starting 20 years ago or even when I got it for my Tacoma 9 years ago. Quite a few videos on them. After all these years of having them on my trucks I came across a youtube video "Common mistake installing Roadmaster Active Suspension - 2017 F-150." After watching the video I made the recommended adjustment and got another 1/4 inch lift from the Tacoma "recall leaf springs."

Hope this gives you an idea for another option.

 

airbags? like the riderites or whatever

 

Another vote for the RAS. They're adjustable and if you find the sweet spot you won't notice they are there. No axle wrap/hop. Don't have to futz with them like you would an air bag. Takes 10 minutes to adjust for those occasional cross country trips where I'm hauling the trailer, generator, and kitchen sink. They're a great spring.

 

Just in case or out of curiosity, you might want to check out that video I mentioned. IMO, it makes a good point. So much so that I changed or tweaked how mine were installed. Quick and easy to make. Also check out the youtube video "Roadmaster Active Suspension Install Mistake Corrected - 2007 Tacoma Prerunner."

 

Thanks. When I bolted it to the 2016 I had it on the third pin like it should be. I never thought to double check when the dealer swapped it from my 16 to my 18 two years ago. Looks like they used the second pin. It's so close I never even noticed it, but it looks like I'll have a nice weekend project putting it back to where it should be.

 

I really appreciate the suggestion. Which Sumo springs did you go with (Yellow SSR-610-54, black SSR-610-47 or bluE SSR-610-40) to go with your RAS? Are your stock springs the 2+1 or the TSB 3+1? I checked out the RAS on etrailer, they’re a bit pricy $469, but seems like they get good reviews. I’m not sure of the health of my leaf pack, I have the 3+1, I’ll know when I take the Hellwigs off.

 

I have the blue Sumo Springs on my truck. The leaf springs are the TSB 3+1. Yes, the RAS are pricey now, didn't realize they're that high though. Have you looked at other RAS vendors? I'll check and see what prices I can find.

How long have the Hellwigs been on you truck? They could have kept your leaf springs in good shape.

 

Not sure how long they’ve been on, I bought the truck used about a year ago. Once I get a spare minute I’ll take the Hellwigs off to see how the stock leaves sit.

 

The ride rite airbags + daystar cradles have been great for me. great for towing and/or loading the bed with gear. I like the fact that I can air them up while in transit, unload and deflate as necessary.

 

Checking around, General Spring has the RAS for $449 with free shipping. Their vehicle selection drop menu is limited, but it has the same product code as etrailer for your specific vehicle. I've heard good things about General Spring here on TW and have been checking out their leaf paks

https://www.generalspringkc.com/product_p/ras4514-a.htm

Also looking at the RAS main web site a $50 off with free shipping coupon with the code SCARY50 popped up

https://activesuspension.com/products/kits/2005-2016-tacoma-pickup-4wheel/

 

Thanks Dave for looking this up. Yeah, I was looking at Gen Spring packs, specifically at their 90-297HD 3+1 leaf pack (Not side specific). the other pack they have for Tacoma are 2+1 and are side specific. I emailed their customer support and they said generally the 90-297HD sit about 1.5 inch higher than the OEMs. I’d love to hear anyone’s experience with the Gen Spring 90-297HD, especially from folks that stepped up from the OEM 3+1 packs.