New member infected with recreational DIY service bug caught here

I've owned my '08 for 15 years and have frequented this forum periodically when looking for help with the (very) few issues I've had with it. Never bothered to join but I'm getting a TopoTopper overland style camper top next week and decided to do some suspension service before install as it weighs about 400 pounds and is kind of tall.

Began reading here, and, well, things got out of hand and thanks to write-ups and general advice (plus a healthy dose of manic energy) I have done all of below in last 5 weeks or so.

Replaced upper and lower control arms & balljoints
New Bilstein 5100's (second set after choosing first time from consensus here maybe 8 years ago)
New tie rods & ends
Road Active Suspension rear helper springs
ECGS CV axle bushing mod
Ft & rear Diff fluid swap
Mass air & throttle body service
New plugs
Power steering flush

Lots of great advice here, and simply reading and following instructions made everything fairly easy and successful.
Mostly joining to say thanks to many who are so helpful.

 

Welcome to TW!

 

How do you like those when the truck is unladen? Ride 'normal'?

 

Ive learned so much here, its great place to learn!!!!
I love this place

 

The first time I came across the RAS I thought they looked really goofy and ignored them. I wanted to firm up the suspension and was looking at everything from HD leaf packs to helpers to air bags. They popped up a few more times and I took time to read up. Still thought they looked goofy but kinda understood how they were supposed to work. Decided to pull the trigger and try them as they were far and away the easiest install (or removal if they suck) and are easily tunable by adjusting preload. They basically allow you to customize your spring rate.

I've had them installed for about 5 weeks now, first 4 with my ~200 lb Leer shell and now for last week with nothing after pulling the Leer ahead of camper install. Honestly I really liked them with the Leer and now with it off they are a bit too firm. I tuned the preload to about 40% of firmest setting and that might be a bit soft once the camper is on. Very noticeable reduction in lean on long sweeping corners at highway speed and they likely should help in cross winds with the higher camper profile. Probably no point in them if you're not going to be loaded or tow.

 

TW is often the place for best advice! Enjoy your ride.

 

Thanks for the small write up on the RAS, I think that just pushed me over the edge to go ahead and order it. I really like that you can adjust the preload and set it to however you want. I don't need much extra support in the rear, but now that I'm leveled out, trailers really make the rear sag so this should be a big help.