I have a 1997 f150 5.4L V8 super cab, 4wd, auto with only three leafs in the rear (good idea ford) and their wore out out to say the least. Im having trouble deciding if I should get air bags or springs? I was looking at hellwigs either the loadpro progressive rates or the load pro full time springs. Both springs are supposed to be adjustable and obviously help with sagging. My main concersn are how hard are they to adjust? can I get any lift from them? and will it help even if my truck is sagging on one side more than the other?

 

I'd side with the hellwig full time springs.

Yes, they can be a pain to adjust. You may have to remove a tire (depending on size) and loosen or tighten a 8 nuts that are exposed to road salt, water and mud. I just got mine where I wanted them and leave them there.

Yes, you can adjust them and gain 1-1 1/2'' in the back. I raised my about 1 inch on my 1998 f150 4x4, 5.4, auto, reg. cab, 8' bed. And you can adjust each side to fine tune the stance or load.

If you truck is sagging you have existing problems with your rear suspension.

Consider adding 1-2 add-a-leafs the the existing leaf spring packs (5 total per side) then add 3 helper springs on top (8 Total each side). My truck is set up this way, and I love it. Stiff ride unloaded, much more stable in turns, nice and smooth with a heavy load. Much better than the weak leafs from the factory.