My 2006 5.4 has the Snow Plow prep package. I know its a SD, but my teeth and back would appreciate a better ride when empty. Anybody here know if removing the snow plow prep pieces and putting in the best ride factory pieces would help? If so what parts am I in for to do it, and any idea on labor? I don't ever plan on putting a plow on it or hauling anything to the limit. Curious to see if anyone else here has done this.

Snow Plow Prep Package — Front springs/GAWR upgrade (5200 or
5600 lbs. with gas engine; 6000 lbs. with diesel engine); auxiliary rear
springs where not standard;

Thanks

 

Any suggestions? I was thinking tires would help also, it has E load Pirelli Scorpions on it.

 

Going from E to D rated tires won't do anything for your ride, and is a *slightly* smoother ride worth close to $1000 to you for new springs after install? It's gonna ride like a brick no matter what.

 

It would cost you a pretty penny, but you could go with airbags on all four corners. You could soften the bags as much as you like for unloaded driving, then air them up whenever you have a load to haul. I would figure about $3500-$4000 installed for a setup including an onboard compressor, air tank, and automatic load leveling equipment. Might get it done for $2000-$2500 if you can do the work yourself.

Sorry, I know this is not the answer to the question you asked. Personally, I doubt removing the snow plow prep package would help all that much with the ride. I suppose you could go test drive a new truck w/o the snow plow package and see if you notice any real difference...

Mike

 

I traded in my 08' reg cab, 5.4L w/ plow prep for similiar reasons. The 2011 Lariat rides emensly better. And, it has the plow prep too.

 

The dirty little secret is that the Snow Plow Prep Package basically consists of a different Fan Clutch. Yup, that's it. The harsh ride is more a factor of the front springs in the truck - and there are several options there. Most folks don't buy SD's for there ride - but their load carrying or towing capacity. A stiffer ride is part of the deal.

 

Put some new Bilstein shocks on for a better ride.

 

My buddy bought an 09 F250 with the snow prep package and I know what you mean about the ride it rides very stiff up front. My 08 F250 with 20s rides way better then his. I did drive a 2011 and I will say it rode very nice for a HD truck. Much better then my 08