Suspension “settling” - how much?

[tacorancher]

Hey guys - I took measurements at multiple “sprung mass” spots on my truck when I first got it. For example, the frame was 14.25” from the ground. It’s now lower by about 0.25” or maybe a hair less than that in almost all areas. I’ve normalized for tire swaps and it’s definitely lower. I carry very little weight and I am coming up on 10,000 miles. Is this typical for a truck where I carry at most 200 pounds over stock most of the time? (When I measured I unloaded the truck almost entirely.)

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[Sagebrush]

Tire pressure?

 

[tacorancher]

Tire pressure?

Could lbe part of it. It has been cold out and I’m a little lower than usual on psi. But I’ve also heard of suspension settling. I’ll check again with higher psi.

 

[CrispyTacoLover]

You are still on factory shocks and springs? I would expect them to settle at least a half inch after 10k miles, diamondback, etc.

I’m probably going to replace my Offroad shocks. Not real happy with the internal bumpstop design.

 

[tacorancher]

You are still on factory shocks and springs? I would expect them to settle at least a half inch after 10k miles, diamondback, etc.

I’m probably going to replace my Offroad shocks. Not real happy with the internal bumpstop design.

Yup. On factory shocks and springs. I want to keep the shocks but I’ll def consider replacing the rear springs with some longer dobinsons. Based on what you’re saying 1/4” is fine — I’ll also measure again when I’m at fuller tire pressure.

 

[MT-Taco]

1/4 inch is nothing. Cold vs hot tire pressure, cold morning vs warm afternoon etc. Newly installed shocks often settle an inch or more, but they usually fully settle after a short drive of a few miles.

 

[FlyAngler]

Full tank of gas weighs quite a bit. Consistency there might take that variable out of the mix. Just a thought!

 

[tacorancher]

Full tank of gas weighs quite a bit. Consistency there might take that variable out of the mix. Just a thought!

It could be. I’m going to measure again with empty tank, normal psi, empty bed.

 

[tacorancher]

Hey guys - I noticed something interesting. I took a video of the measurements when I first bought the truck. I took them from the passenger side and my wheel was turned to the right. I checked today and when the wheel is turned right it lifts the truck about a quarter inch on the passenger side. I am pretty sure that is the reason for the discrepancy as opposed to settling. I’ll take some more measurements later to confirm but this is my suspicion.

 

[tacorancher]

Just to close this one out - after tire pressure is back up from weather and bed empty - back to normal height

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