Add a leaf

[88RangerNate]

Anyone had experience with add-a-leaf on an 88 Ranger? Looks easy enough to do, but would love to hear from anyone who’s tried.

 

[gw33gp]

I installed add-a-leafs on my 89 STX. It was not very difficult to do. I didn't care much for the provided straps that wrapped around the leafs to keep them aligned. They were weaker than the stock ones and I had to readjust the leafs a couple time after years of use off-road. They did work though.

I had a pretty heavy shell and carpet insert on the bed and the STX sat high in the front with the factory lift. The add-a-leafs leveled the truck nicely with just the shell on it. It also road nice with the shell on it. With the shell off (which wasn't very often), the rear was very stiff and not a comfortable ride plus the rear sat high.

When I went off-road, it would be for a considerable length of time and I had to carry a lot stuff. The rear would sag again with that load and I ended up installing air bags to level the truck with a load and for towing. This worked so well that I skipped the add-a leafs on my next Ranger and just installed the air bags. Add-a-leafs are not adjustable, but air bags are and can be set to level the truck no matter the load, or no load, within the Rangers capacity. Air bags have some drawbacks too but I have learned to live with that.

 

[88RangerNate]

What brand of air bags did you use? I got a wildernest camper and it’s pretty heavy compared to other toppers so looking to give the truck a little more capacity. I don’t intend on towing anything so not sure if I would go the airbag route. Thanks for the info!

 

[gw33gp]

I use Air Lift bags. They typically need to be replaced about every 7 years. I am told the Firestone bags last longer.

If you are going to keep the Wildernest on all the time and don't plan to load it up much, the add-a-leafs may be a better choice. The air bags require checking pressure every month or so and usually air needs to be added. The add-a leafs are basically maintenance free.

 

[88RangerNate]

Thanks for the info.

Thats my logic as well. I think I'll end up going with the add-a leaf option, but good to know airbags are applicable as well. Thanks man, much appreciated.