Add-a-leaf vs pack

2023 DCLB with cap and 200-800lbs of work tools / materials on any given day and do notice it looks slightly "squatted' at times. Never really level after the cap was installed and have been researching add-a-leafs. I was locked on installing AAL's but after researching, some seem to say this is a band-aid. I just am looking for a long term solution for a work truck with occasional off-road / bass boat hauling / camping ventures. I don't want to really mess with brake line extensions or new shackles but will if I have to... I saw some left the brake line hanging because it was too short to bolt back on after adding Icon AAL's. I'm not really enthused about leaving any brake line "hanging" without support or potential driveshaft vibration issues. Also, I don't mind spending extra if new shocks are needed. Just looking for advice and what TW suggests.

 

Definite band-aid solution IMHO.
After adding an All-Dogs full leaf pack, the difference is night and day. Even with near 400 lbs of tounge weight, I barely get any squat.
The OOB rear leafs on the 3rd gen Tacos are some of the softest leaf springs I've ever seen from the factory on a truck.
Highly recommended to get a pack and skip the AAL.

 

My opinion is, you paid for oem leaf pack, use it, stick the icon AAL in for 200$ and let it run its course.

Most don't install the icon AAL correctly, nor do they know how to mount the brake cable, I just did my sisters truck last month, no hanging parts. She hauls a snowmobile.

Put a heavy pack in later. The heavy packs wear as well, they flatten over time as well. So use the bandaid for now and upgrade later.

Because you have such varying loads, you could also consider airbags, they will work with any pack.

I've owned oem, upgraded, aal and air bags (on many trucks). Air bags are my favorite easily. You simply bump pressure up till its level or near a rake and go on your way.

https://www.suspensionconnection.com/2407.html (dont use that vendor, do some homework on that)

 

at those weight and/or towing, I think you are correct, you should be looking to a whole new leaf pack.
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/icon-rxt-leaf-pack.505580/

 

Leaf Pack

 

I love my Headstrong progresssive AAL's

 

I ran an aal, for two years and then full pack. Should went full pack to start with. Take the $200 for all and put it towards full pack. With what your carry and towing, do it right. The first time.

 

Buy once cry once, get the full leaf pack. The brake like you are referring to that people leave hanging is the e brake line, the rear brakes come down on the driver side above the axle and tie into hard lines there.