I've posted this elsewhere on the web site, but figured I'd get more of a response here where folks'll see it...

I own a 1991 F-150, and want to beef it up so that it can pull up to 7700 pounds, as listed for my engine/axle combination in the manual. I know the E40D transmission is recommended, but I also know the AOD is well up to the task (ask any farmer around here!)

The manual says I need the handling package and heavy-duty radiator to pull over 3500 pounds. Radiator--no problem (I'm keeping the original till it blows.) But the suspension items leave me wondering. Towing horses, I need the truck's suspension to be better than it is now. They move in the trailer, ya know.

The truck is currently configured with the lighter-duty springs, etc. The dilemma is that I can either go with OEM suspension items (and feel confident the I can pull up to the max weight listed in the manual) OR go with heavy-duty items such as Bilstein air shocks, off-brand stabilizer bars, and other suspension items.

Recommendations? Recommended name brands? Will the OEM package be as good as the aftermarket parts I am likely to find, given my towing needs?

Thanks,

Mike