Moreforles wrote:any updates on rear suspension upgrade..... with the load in my Safari (carpet cleaning equipment) I'm thinking about an add a leaf or replacing old leafs.
Knowing what I know today, I would NOT install +1 leaf in my Safari van again. Yes. Its do-able and in the end, it worked ok. But when including the additional cost of related adjustments, using +1 leaf was more costly then other upgrade solutions. For example: +1 leaf from Suspension shop, Raise the Front (to compensate for rear's raised rear from +1 leaf), install Timbrens on its rear (with modified base - to remove rear compression depth) and perform wheel alignment (because the front suspension was touched). When adding +1 leaf, there's a domino effect that many people forget to mention as well.
For a less expensive solution (then add +1 leaf and its related costs, or adding Air bags - which is a cool adjustable option as well), do investigate Timbren SES units for your van's rear. One can get Timbren SES units rated with 2,000 lbs (great for passenger vans) and Timbrens rated for 4,000 lbs (great for cargo vans). For your cargo van hauling, I'd get the 4,000 lbs (aka: Commercial) Timbren SES units for the rear. After all, cargo doesn't complain about too still of suspension.
For more details about Timbrens, surf:
Product Overview:
http://www.timbren.com/ses-van-suv.htm
2WD & 4WD normal duty:
http://www.timbren.com/timbren-applicat ... MRASTB.pdf
2WD & 4WD commercial duty:
http://www.timbren.com/timbren-applicat ... ASTBHD.pdf
Also... If your van's front end feels "too soft" (especially under harsh braking conditions), one can install Timbrens on the front as well. Thus, removing suspension depth - especially under fast braking conditions.
If wondering, I bought / installed Timbren SES units in my new Montana van (instead of going with factory load levelers - which is an air based upgrade). With Timbrens, my mini-van's ride comfort while empty is unchanged. And under load, the Timbren SES units come into contact and my van has NO sag (if kept within van's weight limits). Timbrens worked great on this van as well... Thus, well worth investigating for your van's "firm up the rear" needs as well.
Hope this helps...
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