Tacoma suspension upgrades for bobcat

[Elijah207]

Hello! I will be picking up a bobcat for my 2008 Toyota Tacoma (4x4, 6 foot bed, access cab, TRD sport) later this summer. I replaced my suspension and leafs a few years ago with Bilstein 5100’s. My truck has 215,000 miles, and I only anticipate having for at around 3 more years. I’m wondering what would be a cost effective suspension upgrade to help with the weight of the camper. I was thinking Timbrens would be a really simple, cost effective solution. Air bags are my second option. Does anyone have any suggestions?

 

[Wandering Sagebrush]

Airbags will give you the ability to adjust the ride based on load. I don’t believe Timbrens will.

 

[Elijah207]

That seems like a good benefit. I will be keeping the camper on the truck full time, but it won’t always be fully loaded with gear, water, etc.

 

[Casa Escarlata Robles Too]

I have had very good success with Firestone Ridright air bags on my 2002 Tundra with the Bobcat.I like the airbags as you can adjust the height depending on the weight side to side.
My camper is on the truck all the time.
Frank

 

[57Pan]

I have a 2005 Tacoma with ARB springs and shocks plus Firestone airbags. It handles the Bobcat camper quite well with this setup. I usually only have my camper on for about 4 month each year.

 

[FAW3]

Pair those good shocks with a rear spring pack designed for the weight of the camper. Do a few trips and see if a sway bar is needed.

If the camper was on/off I'd do the air bag approach.

 

[buckland]

x2 for the Firestone airbags.

 

[Wandering Sagebrush]

I’ve used both Firestone and Air Lift bags on my trucks. Both performed well. Review a truck forum to see which is recommended for your truck.

For example, on my Super Duty, Air Lift has a better mounting location, so I went with that brand.