Bags Vs. Coils

[bhammer]

Hey guys,

I have a 72 LWB C-10, I'm in the process of lowering my truck and need to decide on a conventional 4/6 lowering kit or putting bags on the rear end. I want to be able to do some heavy duty towing and I hear bags are a great way to lower the rear of your truck while maintaining towability. Can anyone give me some feedback on how the ride is with bags? Should I just go bags all around if I do? I have heard the ride with bags can be stiff and jumpy. Anyone have any feedback?

Also, if I go the conventional route what would be the best kit to go with? I am thinking a 4/6 drop, but I want the truck to be as close to level as possible. I am not a huge fan of having a rake. A small, very small one is acceptable but I am leaning toward none at all. Is a 4/6 even the right kit to use? I don't want to have to notch the frame. Can I get away with putting on larger tires? Anything would help guys... Thanks in advance.

P.S. As you can see, the ass end is just a bit higher than level. I just want to drop it a little bit. Any suggestions?

Brian

[tcb-1]

just my .02

I had both a minimum and a huge conventional drop and now bags. I can honestly say that the bags ride better than any setup I've ever had. bags are also adjustable to what your doing at the time be it towing or show. however a full air ride system is not exactly cheap. plan on at least 1k to 2k, depending on how you set it up.

springs are stiffer, but more economical and in some cases, reliable.

lastly, your truck should be approx 2" higher in the rear than it is the front if it still has the original suspension on it. a 4/6 drop should put you even all the way around, but with a noticably lowered stance.

[Mondo]

I have coil drop (actually more like 5/7) but will probably put bags (or helper bags) on the back (just use shraeder valve for occasion heavy load).
With coils I don't worry about front end alignment changes with different pressures (don't know how much of an issue that really is). The rear springs are soft for a good ride and won't carry a load of any significant weight. No air compressor etc... is a plus.

[Jacfourteen]

If you plan on hauling then I would say put bags in back, you can do like suggested and use tire valves then just air up for heavy duty. otherwise anytime you haul you will lean back.

[firedog]

i agree with tcb the ride is much better on air... think about it just about every 18 wheeler on the road now days has air ride suspension

[Irishpilot]

Air ride rides smooth and with a sway bar, it handles well through the corners. Adjustable with the ability to haul. I pieced mine together and I spent $1500 with an 8 valve setup.