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Need advice to eliminate the squat when towing!
- Thread starter Mtnbikes
- Start date
- Watchers 13
Two options.
A. Weight distribution hitch.
B. Airlift bags
Either will eliminate squat but the distro hitch will also add a LOT of sway control. I recommend this method. Either option will be in the $500 neighborhood. There is an airlift kit for the Tacoma, with compressor you are around $1200, manual version (pump it yourself) you are around $500.
A distro hitch looks a little intimidating at first but don't let is scare you. They are dead simple once you have the hang of it. This option is also far easier to install and setup. A few wrenches and a couple hours initially, then about 3 minutes each time you hook up. Bags will require far more work to install, then just inflating each time you need them. I would use a milwaukee inflator or the like to make life easy.
Take a look at the fastway E2 hitch in it's lightest version, should work great for you.
If you have questions let me know, happy to help!
A. Weight distribution hitch.
B. Airlift bags
Either will eliminate squat but the distro hitch will also add a LOT of sway control. I recommend this method. Either option will be in the $500 neighborhood. There is an airlift kit for the Tacoma, with compressor you are around $1200, manual version (pump it yourself) you are around $500.
A distro hitch looks a little intimidating at first but don't let is scare you. They are dead simple once you have the hang of it. This option is also far easier to install and setup. A few wrenches and a couple hours initially, then about 3 minutes each time you hook up. Bags will require far more work to install, then just inflating each time you need them. I would use a milwaukee inflator or the like to make life easy.
Take a look at the fastway E2 hitch in it's lightest version, should work great for you.
If you have questions let me know, happy to help!
OP
OP
- Thread starter
- #3
I would rather go with the air bags due to my articulating hitch…see pic. What air bags due you recommend? I was looking at the system from rough country.
I would personally only ever used Airlift. I've installed them all and they have always been the best on the market. At the last shop I ran that is the only brand we used and we installed at least two sets a week.
https://www.airliftcompany.com/shop...pvpGXMn0Hyqcc392rrfmvL8Mi5dm467OdyXp9wFHVvvHD
https://www.airliftcompany.com/shop...pvpGXMn0Hyqcc392rrfmvL8Mi5dm467OdyXp9wFHVvvHD
OP
OP
- Thread starter
- #5
Does it allow for full functionality of the suspension system? Is it easy to install or should I have a dealer install them? Would upgrading the shocks to another brand help too?
Thanks for your input. Much appreciated!
Thanks for your input. Much appreciated!
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- First Name
- Dave
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- 2024 Toyota Tacoma 4x4 Long Bed
It allows your suspension to function as normal. It just inflates to raise it when needed. The bags basically sit there useless when not inflated.
They aren't horrible to install on your own but you will need to jack the vehicle by the frame and basic wrenched and sockets are needed. You'll also need to run some air line and drill a small hole somewhere to mount your schrader valve.
I wouldn't personally upgrade the shocks. That's only going to net you a stiffer ride. The bags ride amazing.
OP
OP
- Thread starter
- #10
I will read through it. I definitely do not want to replace the springs or change my ride quality.
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- Ken
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when I had that on my Land Cruiser, I went to different springs on the rear. I think that is easier than airbags. My camper is about 4800 pounds fully loaded
I have an articulating off road hitch that wont allow the use of the weight distribution hitch
I have an articulating off road hitch that wont allow the use of the weight distribution hitch
Bump stops simply limit bottom travel. Doesn't fix sag.
Any shock that reduces sag also reduces ride quality to some extent.
Bags increase ride quality when in use.
In my experience, outside of a a quality weight distribution hitch they are the best thing out there.
Watch some install videos and read the manuals, most here on these forums could likely tackle the install themselves and save some $$.
Man, that sags worse than my 4Runner, and I have a trailer very similar to your Bean. That’s the nature of coil springs, though.I need advice on how to best fix the squat. Thank you!
OP
OP
- Thread starter
- #14
Yes! My truck bed has items in there too. So, between that weight and the tongue weight there is a lot of sag and bottoming out on my trip. I knew there would be some due to the nature of the cool springs, but not this much.
I have tried the Timbren bump stops. They actually work pretty well for towing, but they make the day to day drive harsher. You could also go with stiffer/beefier coils, which honestly might be your best bet. This is one of the reasons I have not yet pulled the trigger on the new Tacoma. Waiting to gather more data on owners’ towing experience.
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