Leaf springs to fix rear sag?

I have a 2012 access cab with a shell on the back. The rear has been sagging for a while now and I need to do something about it. I don’t have much/any experience working on trucks so I’m not sure how to start fixing this problem. I’m thinking I need new leaf springs but I’m not sure if I can just put new springs on or if I do so will I need to replace any other components of the suspension? I predominantly use the truck around town but often I load it up for camping and hope to haul a (small) boat in the future. I also have dogs that hop in and out of the back so I’m not looking to get any significant lift on the bed, I know I’ll get some with new leafs but am not looking for anything excessive. Does anyone have any advice on what could fix this problem or products. Greatly appreciated.

 

I have the same truck and have been down this road. I am very happy with my OME Dakar HD pack. I would highly suggest pulling out the second leaf from the bottom before installing them. Also switch to full poly bushings. Check out my build (link at bottom) to see the evolution of my 2012 AC.

 

See the thread in the Sticky section top of forum on 35s (last sticky) and also look in the Suspension forum section for lots of opinions and links.
Air bags are another lower cost rear only possibility as you can adjust so look at the posts.
Depends on budget and intended uses/needs.

I used OME Dakars in rear and 5100s all around with stock front springs and have been happy and I also tow trailers and boats with about a 2" drop in rear at 5000lbs so truck is then level - about 2" higher unloaded in rear. That's with full steel skids and a shell on 265/70R16s. Only needed to add longer steel braided brake lines for full extension safety. You may have to deal with your pinion angle also after a lift. I have a TW one piece shaft.

 

Do the aftermarket companies make a better OEM replacement? Something that wont add any lift but would be a tad bit stiffer.

 

Take it to a spring shop and have them recurve the springs and maybe add an additional leaf while your at it.

 

Another low-cost alternative to air bags you could consider are Sumo Springs. Very easy to install. There are several different versions depending on how much support you are looking for.

 

I don't think air bags are designed for long term solution. I have Firestone Rite bags and they do provide a nice lift, but the air will eventually seep out.

Check out the offerings at Wheelers; they have leaf sets and helper spring kits.

 

I had the super springs add on and I found them cheesy. I removed them and had additional proper leafs installed.

 

So if I buy OME Dakar HD leafs I should get poly bushings and will also need larger u bolts? What size u bolts? And all of this should be fine with stock shocks?

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zKSFfFHNSe8