I've just completed the install of the Hellwig LP-25 helper springs. Went for a test drive and am getting the same results as most with better cornering, the rear feels more responsive and the ride feels stiffer but not that noticeable. I haven't tried them with the trailer yet (hitch dry weight 570#, loaded weight about 5000#'s) but I'm sure the back end of the truck won't sag as much as it did without.

The instructions say, "To adjust the spring for greater load assist, you must tighten down the primary nuts on the U-bolt. The more you tighten these U-bolts the sooner assist spring will take effect". Meaning, the tighter they are the less sag.

I think mine are somewhat tight and that I maybe in the ballpark. This isn't the most accurate way to measure but I set mine with 1 1/8" of thread expossed from the top of the lock nut to the end of the treaded U-bolt.

My queastion is, has anyone figured out the best tightness on the U-bolts? Need some opinions??

 

I've got the same ones and I don't think there is any "correct" setting to use. Just whatever keeps them from rattling when going over bumps and does not jar you to death at the same time.

I'm going to guess that I have about the same amount of threads exposed as what you say you do. Sounds like we tow about the same size trailer too. My tongue weight is around #550 and the trailer weighs in at about #4500. It only drops about an inch when I initially hitch up. After setting the WD bars, it's back up to the "empty" ride height and the front has lowered about 3/4".

I really like the fact they help with the overal handling of the truck and as an added bonus I have no more wheel hop on slick surfaces and the "clunk" I had when stopping and then going again stopped as well!! Not to mention the fact that I can now put #1000 in the bed and it will only drop 2" instead of hitting the bump stops!

 

Thanks for the reply Mitch!

I'll think they will work out just fine! I'm going to hook up the trailer tomorrow and check the drop. If the truck sinks only 1" like yours I'll be a very "happy camper". I just got this trailer as I had a '94 19E Prowler before. Not as much weight but was surprised to see how much this one dropped! Didn't know what to do, get new shocks but know that won't help 'cause it's in the springs.

By chance I was looking at an online parts store and suddenly came across the Hellwig springs. I came to this site and did a search for helper springs and your posts came up with the pictures and all. I then went out and bought them!! Tnx for all the info!

I'm a DIYer as I don't like the dealer's that much. Just my oppinion but I don't trust them! I just did my plugs last week and it was all the info on this site that showed me how and gave me the confidence in doing it. It's not difficult just time consuming!

My latest example for not trusting the dealer's was reinforced when changing the plugs. They were supposed to have been cleaned during a service visit last Dec. They looked like they weren't pulled al all and were really cardoned up. Two of the plugs (and coils), which had been replaced under warrenty, had a .040 gap! Runs alot better now!!!

I installed a trany temp guage last June from the info available on this site. I did the fog lite mod to the switch yesterday after I installed the springs. I now have the fuel filter tool for future change's. This site is great and I would like to thank everyone for contributing!

I've been reading up on e-fans and pulley's. I wasn't to happy with the pulley's on my Mustang but may give Mike's a shot. They don't seem to be as radical as the 3 pulley setup. That's what was on the Mustang.

My queastion now is, will the e-fans help transmission cooling? I'm getting the feeling that a call to Mike is slated for the near future (as soon as my wallet gets fatter!).

 

I got my 'tips' for the plug change from this site also. Really helped with that chore.

I've gone to the dealer for a recall and when my CEL came on for a miss I had (good ol' #4 COP was bad). I didn't have time to diagnose/fix it myself, so came in with no appointment on a Saturday, and I was out in a couple hours. A lot lighter in the wallet too, but heck, it was done and I knew it was something they would have to fix and I could actually see the new part!

I'm considering getting one of Mike's 7" fans for my stock tranny cooler. I think my cooler size is ok, but when there is not enough airflow, and it's hot out, my tranny temp sits at 180*. That's not even towing! I'm not going to do the e-fan for the rad however. I know it would free up some additional power, but just don't want to mess with it. Same deal with the pulley's.

 

Mitch

180*, it must be real hot weather! Mine usually sits at 150* in moderate heat without towing. But I did hit 210* recently while towing, that's why I'm so concerned about cooling right now.

I ordered a B&M 11x8x1 1/2 cooler. It's been talked about a fair bit here on the boards. The cooler's a bit larger than stock but it's a cheaper upgrade than a larger pan or anything else. Besides I'm not so sure about the pan because if there is more fluid wouldn't it take longer to get to the cooler!? I haven't had a response on this queastion so the jury is still out.

Hopefully, I'll have it the cooler delivered and installed by the end of the week as we are planning a camping trip this weekend.

Will let you know how it goes with the springs and the cooler, but most likely in the Towing Forum. The subject has kind of changed!

 

See ya in the Towing section.