Towing with Deavers/air bumps/3.0 - need some help please

Disclaimer: Links on this page pointing to Amazon, eBay and other sites may include affiliate code. If you click them and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission.

13terrain

Active Member
Joined
Jun 30, 2013
Posts
66
Reaction score
4
Location
TX
Im running fox 3.0, deaver +3 and bumpstop kit on my Gen 1. We are looking to purchase a travel trailer here soon. A new truck isnt an option. So, other than a good weight distribution hitch (please recommend one if you have an opinion), what else is needed on my truck? I am already aware of the 800 lb max hitch weight and towing weight. Im more concerned with do I need to add bumpstop extensions/striker plates or even an airbag setup? Looking to do everything I need to before I pick up trailer.

Thanks for any and all help!
 

BoatzNHoes

Member
Joined
May 9, 2023
Posts
12
Reaction score
21
Location
San Diego
Hey there! Also have a Raptor in Terrain, love the color!
My recommendation for a WD hitch is Equal-i-zer. Good support and offer a lot of helpful tech advice on their products and how to properly setup a vehicle for towing. This will help with sway and aide with minor sag.

When it comes to towing, or any additional weight added, it's super important to understand that it's your rear springs main responsibility to support the weight. Maintaining appropriate ride height when loaded is KEY!
Bump stop extensions will prevent bottom out however if your springs can't support the weight you'll be bottoming out all the time and effectively running into those extensions. Not ideal. Deaver makes HD springs that would be better suited in this case, rather than their non-HD offerings.

Airbags are a good solution as you can fill them up when needed and ensure proper ride height, however this does limit what you can do off-road. If you are looking at keeping off-road performance and not be limited with airbags, you may interested in a set of SumoSprings. Much more affordable than a set of airbags, however from experience they work well until you fully engage the sumo spring - then the rate really kicks up in a linear fashion. Could be jarring at times.

Unfortunately you have a vehicle that was not intended to really tow...it can....but a little give & take is expected depending on what your end goal for your Raptor is. If you want it to be a tow beast you'll sacrifice a little performance, and vice versa. Hope this helps!
 
Top