Z85 with aftermarket coils, anyone done it?

[kinson33]

As the title states, has anyone kept the air shocks but run an aftermarket dual rate coil? Curious if this would ride terribly. My thought/hope is it would make the new air shocks last longer by taking some of the stress off while still keeping the leveling capability. We’re loaded to the gills in the back of the suburban on a regular basis.

 

[Joseph Garcia]

I have not heard of this being done, but that's just my limited experience, but other members of this Forum much more knowledgeable than me in this area will chime in.

The Z85 suspension is already a heavy duty suspension. When you say that you are loaded to the gills, are the loads within the specified limits for the truck?

 

[kinson33]

Yes, still well within 1750 payload limit. Back hatch area is loaded floor to ceiling with cooler, bags, and all the accessories for a larger family’s road trip. Shocks are blown, replacing them this week and debating on adding the dual rate coils at the same time. I suspect it would ride rougher unloaded but looking for any real world experience.

 

[Joseph Garcia]

If your loads are well within the load allowances for the truck, that I'd suggest that you leave well enough alone and just replace the air shocks.

 

[kinson33]

Well, had already ordered the parts so decided to give it a shot and return the coils if it was too rough. Extremely happy I tried it, even empty it rides great and still have the load leveling capability with extra support from the dual rate spring.

- Rough N3 2” struts
- RC UCA’s
- Simcoe rear coils (351-897HD)
- Dorman airshocks (949-847)

 

[kinson33]

Forgot to include we’ll occasionally be pulling the camper with this since I’m working on selling the excursion. Will report back once I get some more miles with this setup.

Also, to update my previous response. I shouldn't say we are "well within" the payload limit, pretty close to the payload limit with the 6 of us plus gear.