13 replies to this topic

[Ronin]

I had a 2004 Tundra 4x4/2004 Hawk for a few years and added helper springs to level out the ride. The biggest issue I had was braking was marginal. In 2015 I bought a new Tundra 4X4 Double cab and had 2 different fairly loaded Hawks on it. I added Ride-Rites to raise the rear a couple of inches. I never felt the need to do any other suspension mods, but never liked the ride with the camper off. The rear end was lifted an inch or two with the Ride-Rites at 15 psi and it made the rear end too bouncy. I now have a 2019 Tundra 4X4 Double Cab with an ATC Panther Shell equipped with side dinette and stove. The factory weight is 900 lbs. Being a backpacker I'm pretty minimalist in how much stuff I need to bring on my trips. I've had this combo for a year now and haven't felt the need to do any suspension mods though I suspect if I had the camper on full time I'd probably add Sumo Springs in the rear. I live in the foothills and daily driving consists of hills and lots of curvy backroads. When I'm out wandering it's generally paved roads until I hit the backcountry and then it's mainly gravel roads and nothing too crazy as I'm still running the Michelins that came with my Tundra.

Good luck sorting it out!!

[Rockaway]

All great info above. I’ll add I run 2018 F150 3.5L FX4 w/air bags and a Hawk -shell w/heater. OH, I also carry a Husky 350s on the back:). The weight of the truck + camper+bike is a big deal the more you travel off the beaten path. Gas mileage is also very effected as you add more weight. Keep all this in mind as you make your selection. With very little mods my F150 has proven to be what I want and how I want it both on and off road. The individual front suspension is very comfortable and capable. Solid axels are robust but stiffen ride. A Half ton truck has its place in the pop camper market. Just be careful to know and understand the capabilities of what you drive or ride.

[RamblinRoger]

Hi Everyone,

 

New to forum. Lots of great information. I've a 2018 Tundra 1.5 ton 5.7 liter, Double Cab with 6.5 foot bed. I want to get a Hawk or perhaps another kind or popup camper. (Hawks nice but pricey)

 

I think the weight of the Hawk loaded will exceed the GVWR (7100 lbs) of the truck by about 200-300 lbs or so. The camper will be off the truck in my driveway when not in use.

 

Two questions:

 

Do I need both the Hellwig Overload springs plus Airbags? I'm guessing they have different functions. If both items aren't necessary then which one do you recommend?

 

Also, if the GVWR is exceeded and the vehicle should be involved in an accident might there be an issue with my insurance company covering the incident b/c the weight was exceeded?

 

Thank you!

 

Roger

 

 

[mtnbiker99]

Hey Roger - i'm relative new to this forum as well AND i'm also in the same situation as you. I have a 2019 F150 crewcab with 6.5 bed and my GVWR is 7100. I took my truck to a CAT scale with the heavy tailgate off and it weighs 5680lbs. (full tank of gas).  

 

So as you can see, without any passengers, gear, bikes, etc. i'll be way over the GVWR. Most people run pretty close to their GVWR if not over. For me, i'll be way over.Truck is stock so i'll have to spend extra $$ on suspension mods.  And that will also add extra weight. 

 

So now, i'm in the process of looking for a 3/4 truck. Mainly for family safety and peace of mind. 

 

To answer your questions. 

1. I was thinking of the same mods as you. Since the camper will be on part time. 

2. I'm in the mindset that insurance companies will find a way not to pay.