I'm running the original springs with 500# of bagged sand and salt in a crib in the bed for traction as I do every winter. I'm about to hit 120,000 miles and the last two weeks I've been hitting the bump stops over even moderate bumps. I don't see any breaks or cracks, the truck sits level and they both have about 2 1/4" clearance from axle to bump rubber.

Can I replace the springs with the 1,400 pounders from the 2003/2004's to get a higher payload? I just replaced the shocks with new Bilsteins, will I need to replace them to match the heavier springs? Does anyone have any take-offs they want to unload?

 

You could replace them with 2004 rear springs, but your A$$ end will stick up in the air like a 4x4

replacement 2001 or 2002 rear SVT springs are pretty cheep.