Setting up 1999 EB SOHC for towing

[DangerRay]

Hey all,

I recently acquired a 1999 Ford Explorer. I've done a good amount of research on here about towing. It has the 5-speed auto/OD, 4.10 Gears (LSD), aftermarket Class II receiver hitch, and the SOHC. There is serious rust on the rear leaf shackles and hitch, and the leaf springs are flat. I am planning on doing heavier duty F-150 springs from rock auto or autoandtrucksprings.com, heavier duty shocks, with new shackles as well. I've researched the spring swap on here and feel comfortable with it. I am also going to a Class III system, possibly WDH.

http://www.autoandtrucksprings.com/products/Ford_Light_Duty_Replacement_Leaf_Spring-1121-37.html

If I want to go heavier on the shocks, what weight should I go to?

I was looking at Rockauto.com for MONROE Part # 58617 or KYB Part # 565003

I understand ride quality can suffer with these modifications and I am OK with a firmer/less comfortable truck, I just want to maximize ability to handle tongue weight and sag.

Thanks in advance, feel free to offer opinions or criticisms

 

[MountaineerGreen]

The springs and shackles I'd say are a must for towing. But keep in mind, shocks are not designed or intended to support vehicle weight, they only dampen what the springs do. Heavy duty shocks will probably not help much with towing and could make the ride unnecessarily rougher. And believe me F150 springs under that rig with no load or trailer will be significantly rougher.

 

[DangerRay]

OK, so stock replacement rated shocks would be acceptable. I'll add some pics of the current situation so I can compare once the work starts.

Also, is there any source for F150-weight springs that already have the explorer type top leaf? I searched but could not find any. That would just save me a step if they are already out there somewhere.

 

[thebrakeman]

Stock replacements for the suspension should be done because you see deterioration. No need to upgrade the suspension bits. The WDH system will be what you need to handle the effects of TW.
1. Primary concern is that TW reduces the weight on the front axle. The WDH will return all of that lost weight to the front wheels.
2. As a side effect of taking care of #1, weight is removed from the rear axle, helping to level the truck.
3. Be aware that some weight is also pushed to the trailer as well. Not a problem, unless the trailer is severely limited on cargo capacity.

So, in short, get the stock suspension back in good shape for normal driving. Get the WDH kit (and a brake controller) for proper towing ability.