Added shell, do I add a leaf?

Hey all,

Proud new owner of a Snugtop Cab-Hi on my 2018 OR DCLB. Has sportsman's package so it's a bit heavy. Note I have 5100's all around with front set to 3rd notch (1.1"). Suspension has about 4k miles, truck has 13k miles.

The shell gave the rear end a bit more squat. About 3/8" drop at the wheel wells, 1/2" at the hitch. I should have taken before and after photos, but didn't. I plan to see if the truck is sloping backwards, on some flat concrete later this evening over on the old naval base (runway seems like a good place to check? ) But to me it looks like it's sagging already.

Anyway, asking for some advice. Do you think adding a leaf will help to level it out? I am okay with a slight rake in unloaded day-to-day. Other question, will adding a leaf worsen the ride? I am really liking the 5100s, they really improved the ride over stock, especially on crappy highways at highway speeds!

Thanks,
Emerson

PS when camping, etc, the truck will be heavy with 2 adults, 3 kids (getting heavier), and lots of family gear. Thanks!

 

Just get some replacement leaf packs and toss the Yota leafs in the trash where they belong. Do it once, do it right.

 

Thanks, Liftman. Recommendation? Something that doesn't squeak too much? Appreciate it!

 

Budget?

 

Assuming it's a couple hours labor either way, I would say $300 on equipment? Sound reasonable?

 

I have an 3 leaf AAL/5160s in the rear and I regret not doing a full leaf pack, I still sag in the rear

Going to get a full set from deaver/allpro soon

 

You're going to need to bump those numbers up. Minimum leaf pack that would handle the weight you plan on is $500 (Dakars) and others just go up from there.

 

Thank you, Liftman. Much appreciated.

 

You should be able to find some guys in the Bay Area willing to help you throw them on for a few beers and some pizza too. Mod days are a blast & you’ll save on that labor cost...

 

Also, this.

 

Hi @geekhouse23 et al. -- circling back.

Comment: unloaded out on the runway (which I checked and was level AF, as expected), the bed of the truck was also remarkably level (truck empty other than canopy). Question: is that the appropriate place to measure? I suppose at level, adding weight (anywhere), will start to cause sag. Appreciate your high-level insight.

Second...question: what are your thoughts on ARB Old Man Emu Leaf Spring - EL095R vs.EL096R ? As a reminder, I have a canopy, 5100s at all four corners, 265/75/16+stock rims, 4 humans, and regular ol' camping shit (and I like to overpack). Only drive greens and blues, although coaxable. As you've probably gathered, budget has been updated (ahem). Interested in ideas around unloaded and loaded ride quality on-road.

Thanks dudes!

 

Sorry for resurrecting this but I’m curious what you ended up doing? @emonomics

 

Hey Joe,
No worries. I ended up just adding a leaf, despite the above tacoma veterans' advice to buy once, cry once. I am happy with it, especially because my truck is seldom used for anything other than tugging the family to the hills.