TruckSpring Times

Truck & Trailer Parts - News & Information

2016 Nissan Titan and Titan XD Sway Bar

Nissan Titan owners, have you been looking for a rear sway bar for your 2016 truck? Hellwig has the answer with its new sway bars for stock height and lifted 2016 Nissan Titan pickups.  Hellwig sway bar 7748 fits stock height trucks and the 7847 fits Nissan Titans with a 2-4 inch lift. They fit both 2 wheel and 4 wheel drive Nissan Titan and Titan XD trucks and feature a 1 inch heat treated 4140 Chromoly sold steel bar.

Hellwig Nissan Titan Sway Bar 7748

The solid steel Titan sway bar is heat treated to a tensile strength of 180,000 psi to insure outstanding performance and long lasting durability under the severest conditions. The sway bar and brackets are powder coated for durability and good looks.

Nissan Titan Sway Bar Features:

  • Easy installation with no drilling required
  • Adjustable for desired amount of sway control and handling
  • Polyurethane bushings
  • Includes all necessary hardware
  • Lifetime guarantee
  • Made in the USA

P/N 7748 – 2016 Nissan Titan and Titan XD Rear Sway Bar (2 & 4WD) for stock height trucks. 
P/N 7847 – 2016 Nissan Titan and Titan XD Rear Sway Bar (2 & 4WD) for truck with 2-4 Inch Lift.

Hellwig Heavy Duty Sway Bars provide added sway control when hauling heavy loads or towing and greatly improve cornering traction for safer driving and better handling. So upgrade your Titan pickup today with a quality, USA made, rear sway bar from Hellwig.  Order online at TruckSpring.com or call 1-800-358-4751 to talk to one of our suspension experts.

Replacing Your U-Bolts

When installing your U-bolts, it is important to remember to keep your truck on a level surface that is as close to flat as possible. Jack up one side, put the truck on the jack stands and locate the damaged U-bolt that you would like to replace. Take off the nuts of the u-bolt and remove. Old, rusted u-bolts many need to be cut off. Place the new U-bolt around the leaf spring. Connect the two portions of the "U" with two nuts. Use a torque wrench for the installation. Tighten them in a cross pattern, gradually bumping up the torque.


Consult with the vehicle or suspension manufacturer for your particular truck model's advised torque level. The pressure of the U-bolt should be distributed in an even manner along the top plate's width. Make sure the proper fit is attained for a solid clamping force. Lower your truck back to the ground. Don't forget that the U-bolt should be kept tight throughout the year. Mark your calendar to re-torque the U-bolt after 500 miles worth of driving after the replacement. Your spring will settle much more nicely as a result. 

Proper Fit of your U-bolts

If your U-bolts are semi-round, proper fit is essential to maintain clamping forces. Unlike square or round bend U-bolts that do not vary much from one manufacture to another, semi-round bend shapes are usually unique to a particular vehicle or suspension manufacturer. A mismatch between the shape of the semi-round U-bolt and its mating parts can cause an inability to provide the proper clamping force.



In figure 1 the U-bolt has been formed with a shape that causes all the pressure to be concentrated at the center of the suspensions top plate. As the leaf spring flexes under normal operation, the U-bolt will work into the top plate which will lead to loose U-bolts and possibly premature leaf spring failure.


In figure 2 the shape mismatch is causing the pressure to be concentrated at the corners of the top plate. This will cause deformation of the top plate and as a result the clamping force will be diminished and premature leaf spring failure may be the result.


In figure 3 the proper U-bolt fit has been accomplished. The shape of the U-bolt matches the suspensions top plate resulting in even pressure distributed along the width of the top plate allowing for proper clamping forces.

U-bolts are a vital part of your suspension system and should never be reused. Failure to replace or properly fit your U-bolts when maintaining or servicing your suspension could cause premature failure of your leaf springs or other components with catastrophic results.

We have been custom bending and installing u-bolts in our service department for years. If you have any question about install you u-bolts or need new ones, call 1-800-358-4751 to talk to one of our leaf spring suspension experts.

KrestoGT Hand Soap – Destroy dirt and grime, not your hands!

kresto gt hand soap
KrestoGT's line of all-natural hand cleaning products get the job done without those harmful solvents you find in other soaps. These biodegradable scrubbers are soft enough for the hands and just about any other surface. KrestoGT scrubbers have smooth edges that will keep things clean while simultaneously neutralizing odors. These cleaning solutions are available in pump-top bottles, cartridges for wall-mounted dispensers, dual-sided portable scrubber towels and 250 ml flip-top tubes.

KrestoGT Features

 
You won't have to worry about KrestoGT's ingredients harming your hands or other sensitive surfaces. These heavy duty cleaners clean without any damaging agents mixed in. There's no pumice, solvents, distillates, petroleum, kerosene, plastic particles or byproducts of crude oil. Each KrestoGT formulation has been thoroughly tested to ensure compatibility with skin. The hand soap is environmentally friendly to boot. Apply some KrestoGT to heavy soils and you will be surprised at just how well it works. The soap's scrubbers are actually made with walnut shell powder and cornmeal for a smooth and easy application that won't damage your drain on the way down.


Who KrestoGT is Made For

 
Just about everyone can benefit from this soap product. It removes grime, grease, oil and graphite from the hands without drying out your skin. This is made possible thanks to the soap's built-in moisturizers. Those who do work with their hands will especially love this soap's ability to clean through just about any substance. KrestoGT is even available in wipe form so you can use it when you have a mess but lack access to a source of water. The wipes are great addition to your tool box, car, camp site, or anywhere where water is not readily available.  You can mount KrestoGT dispensers in your shop, garage, basement or pole barn. Each dispenser has BioCote protection to fight against exposure to mold and bacteria.
 

KrestoGT Fragrances and Package Selections

 
Kresto GT is available in a variety of scents. The Cherry Turbo has a lovely rich fragrance that blocks out pesky odors you'd like to eliminate. It cuts right through grime, grease, oil and just about anything else. Other fragrances include Orange Boost and a specialized formula called Paint Shop. Paint Shop is ideal for quickly and safely removing oil-based paints, tar, adhesives, lacquers and asphalt. It's an excellent substitute for thinners and other varieties of solvents. Each fragrance will last at least a full two years from the date of manufacture. This is a soap you can trust. It is perfect for your workshop, garage, basement or anywhere else in the home.
 
You can order KrestoGT online or call us at 1-800-358-4751.

Hellwig's HD Air Suspension Line Released

Michigan Truck Spring is proud to carry Hellwig Air Bags. One of the latest additions to our inventory is the new line of heavy-duty air suspension kits. If you use your truck for heavy towing and hauling jobs, Hellwig Air Suspension kits will ensure your ride comfort and load safety at all times. The kits functions in domestic trucks whether they are fully loaded or unloaded.

hellwig hd air bag kits

Hellwig Air Spring Kits

Hellwig Air Springs offer better handling and control and reduce the risk of bottoming out. These kits increase stability by properly distributing the weight over the front and rear axles and provide the ability to level loads from left to right and front to rear. Each air spring is rated for 2,500 lbs. level load capacity to provide the maximize safe load carrying capacity of your vehicle up to its GVWR. Each kit offers simple installation and ease of adjustment by manual fill using a remote air supply (standard) or add in-cab controls or automatic load leveling compressor kits.

Big Wig Air Spring Kits

Designed for heavy tow and haul applications, Hellwig Big Wig Air Spring kits feature a 2,800 lb. air spring for each side and heavy-duty brackets to stand up to the most demanding loads. The Hellwig Big Wig air spring is 2 inches larger in diameter and 3 inches taller than standard 2,500 lbs. air springs and have more air volume to provide better ride quality and performance. These kits require up to 40% less air pressure then smaller 2,500 lbs. air springs to level the same load and help reduce wear and tear on the chassis. Hellwig Big Wig air springs also provide better off-highway performance by extending up to 14 inches for articulation. Covered by a limited lifetime warranty and easy installation, Hellwig Big Wig air spring kits are your best solution for heavy tow and haul applications.

If you are worried about the installation of your new Hellwig Air Suspension kit, don't fret! You can install it yourself or lean on a Michigan Truck Spring specialist for assistance. Feel free to call 1-800-358-4751 for more information or questions. We provide free tech support to our customers that purchase Hellwig products from us.

Air Lift Company SmartAir II - New and Improved SmartAir Automatic Air Compressor System

Do you tow heavy loads with your truck or sport utility vehicle? If so, you know just how challenging it can be to keep your vehicle stable and level. Thankfully, a solution has arrived in the form of the SmartAir II Automatic Leveling System.

What is the SmartAir II Automatic Leveling System?

The masterminds at Air Lift Company designed this invention to help those who perform strenuous tows maintain their preferred ride height on any type of road in any type of conditions. SmartAir II is built with special leveling sensors that are programmed to figure out when the vehicle is not perfectly level. The Smart Air II then alters the air springs to the driver's pre-selected ride height to maximize stability and control. The system incorporates a one-of-a-kind, non-contact height sensor that allows for a consistently level ride without any lines or controls within the cab. SmartAir II also has a new weather-resistant harness and reliable components that adhere to the OEM standards for functionality and quality.

Air Lift SmartAir II 25490

What is Included in the SmartAir II Automatic Leveling System Kit?

When you buy a Smart Air II system, you receive a comprehensive kit that includes a variety of components. First, there is an easy to read instruction manual with clear images that will help you perform a quick and easy install. The kit also includes a compressor, an electronic sensor system and a pre-assembled wiring harness. Interested parties can select their choice of two different models. There is a single-path system, part 25490, that empowers two air springs to inflate at the same time. There is also a dual-path system, part 25491, that is engineered to inflate the springs on either side, independent of one another, depending on the size of the load.

Air Lift SmartAir II 25490
Place Your Faith in SmartAir II and You Won't be let Down

Every Smart Air II that we sell comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee. We won't ask a single question if you decide to return your SmartAir II. There is also an overarching two-year warranty as well. The only caveat to this revolutionary product is that it does not function with vehicles that use Air Lift 1000 adjustable air helper springs. Nor is it compatible with coil-sprung vehicles.

Air Lift Company is a Name You can Trust

Michigan Truck Spring is proud to carry Air Lift Company products. Air Lift Company has been in business for over 60 years for good reason. The company is solely focused on providing the industry's premier air suspension products. Air Lift Company suspension systems do more than just fit your vehicle. They function without flaw and they stand the test of time. 

Find out More Today

You can find the Smart Air II Automatic Leveling System on our website at www.TruckSpring.com.  If you have any questions or comments, give us a call at 1-800-358-4751. We are an authorized Air Lift Distributor.

Choosing An Air Compressor Kit for Your Air Bags

Are you thinking about getting an air compressor kit for your air bags and feeling a little overwhelmed by all the options? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Let’s take a look at the differences and answer some of the important questions you will need to ask yourself when selecting an air compressor kit for your air bags.

Which Brand of Air Compressor Kit?

Air Compressor kits are Universal. Air spring and air bag load support kits use 1/4 inch airline tubing, so the air compressors will work with other brands of air bag kits. Do you have Firestone air bags but like the features of an Air Lift compressor kit? Did you buy a truck that has Air Lift air bags or Hellwig air springs on it, but want to install a Firestone air compressor kit? No worries, one brand will work another brand of air springs. Which brand to choose is a personal preference. We have satisfied customers using Firestone, Air Lift and Viair air compressor kits. You really can't go wrong with which brand you select. Find the one that has the features your require and fits within your budget.

wireless or analog air controlWireless or Analog?

wireless air compressor kits

Wireless air compressors use the latest technology and allow you to inflate and deflate your air bags from inside or outside of your truck. This can come in handy when you want to level out the rear of your truck by allowing you to stand next to the back of the truck and see the change in ride height when inflating or deflating your air springs.  They do cost more, but the extra money you spend on a wireless kit can be made up in the reduced time and cost to install the system. Wireless air compressor kits do not require any lines to be run into the cab of your truck, so the install is much less time consuming than with other systems.

Pros of Wireless Air Compressors systems:

 

  • Easy to install – no wires to run into cab
  • Inflate / deflate your airbags from outside your truck
  • Memory settings for air pressure

analog air compressor kit

Analog air compressors install inside the cab of your truck and are controlled by a toggle switch or button and display the air pressure on a gauge with a needle. Analog systems have been around for years and typically cost less. They will take longer to install than a wireless system because you have to run lines into the cab for the gauge. If you are installing it yourself and have the extra time, it can be less expensive to run an analog system.

Pros of Analog Air Compressors

 

  • Cost less
  • Tried and True – Inflating air bags for decades
  • Expandable – Allows the use of air tanks

single or dual path air compressorSingle or Dual Path Air Compressor?single path air compressor

Single path air compressors inflate both air bags at the same time with the same amount of air pressure.  This provides equal inflation and is designed for use with evenly distributed loads like travel trailers or 5th wheel trailers. If you tow anything with a trailer hitch, a single path system will work well and provide even air pressure.


Single path common uses (Even loads)

  • Travel Trailers
  • Boat Trailers
  • 5th Wheel and Goosneck Trailers
  • Utility and work trailers
  • Horse trailers

dual path air compressor

Dual paths air compressor kits allow you to inflate your air bags with different air pressure amounts.  In the diagram above, the air bag with 45 psi would be on the side of your truck with a water tank or heavy tool box. With a dual path system you can do side-to-side or front-to-back leveling. They are commonly used when you have more weight on one side and need to add more air pressure to one air spring to adequately level your truck. If you have a work truck with cargo on one side or a pickup truck with a Lance slide-in truck camper with luggage and supplies on one side, a dual path system is for you.

Dual Path Common Uses (Uneven loads)

  • Work trucks
  • Flatbed trucks
  • Motorhomes
  • Slide-in Campers

standard or heavy duty compressorStandard Duty or Heavy Duty Air Compressor?

How often you tow is the main factor in determining if you need a standard or heavy duty air compressor. If you are a holiday traveler and only tow your camper once a month during the summer, you will be fine selecting a standard duty air compressor kit. If you have a work truck that is inflating the air bags daily or want more durability and flexibility with your system, we recommend a heavy duty setup with a higher duty cycle that will allow you to run the system more frequently. A heavy duty air compressor will inflate your air springs quicker and often to a higher psi than a standard duty one. If you use your air compressor to pay the bills, have a motorhome that requires higher psi, or are frequently using your air system, we recommend investing a little more upfront for a heavy duty system.

We hope this helps you determine which air compressor system will work best for your needs. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at 1-800-358-4751. We have been selling and installing air bags and air compressors in our shop for years.

New ReadyLift Upper Control Arms for the 4WD Dodge Ram 1500

Do you have a lifted or leveled Dodge Ram 1500 truck? Has the upper control arm ball joint failed or popped out? ReadyLift has an answer for this common suspension problem with Dodge Ram 1500 trucks. The inherent design flaw that results in the upper ball joint popping out of the control arm at full droop is now a thing of the past with the new ReadyLift 67-1501 Upper Control Arm.

 ReadyLift 67-1501 Product Information Video

 

The problem can occur on stock vehicles with the suspension at full droop on a lift or jacked up, or after installing a leveling or lift kit. The stamped steel OEM control arm simply mushrooms and allows the ball joint to pop out.

ready lift control arm

ReadyLift's robust tubular DOM tube steel designed upper control arm features the best engineering and construction, along with added benefits of geometry correction and ball joint angle correction. The proprietary ball joints are far superior to the OEM joints and are designed to work with both leveled and lifted applications.

 

The ReadyLift 67-1500 is intended for use on all 2006-2018 Ram 1500 4WD trucks with leveling or mild lift kits.

Benefits of the ReadyLift 67-1501
  • Robust tubular DOM tube steel design
  • Proprietary ball joints for superior performance
  • Geometry correction and ball joint angle correction
  • Urethane bushings included
  • Made in the U.S.A
  • Sold as a pair

So give yourself peace of mind and your Ram 1500 the upgrade it needs to work properly with a lift or leveling kit with ReadyLift's 67-1501 Upper Control Arm. Contact one of our suspension specialists at 1-800-358-4751 for more information or order online today.

Firestone Digital Wireless Air Command F3 - New Air Compressor Kit

 

Firestone’s new Air Command F3 Wireless Air System, part number 2581, is a great way to adjust your air springs remotely from either inside or outside the vehicle. The one push wireless controller allows side-to-side leveling, real-time pressure readout, dual left and right psi and air pressure control readouts. The easy to read digital display can be read during the day but does not blind you at night. It also utilizes a new sleep cycle and LED display that reduces energy use and improves battery life.Firestone wirelesss air digital air control system

Installation could not be easier with only three wires to connect to the vehicle and one to the compressor. The new design allows the air lines and wiring harness to all be plugged into the same side of the unit for simpler routing of lines and power supply.

The Wireless F3 kit bundles the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) and valve block into a single unit for improved durability, reliability and streamlined installation. The new single-unit design has been tested to withstand pressurized water, road chemicals, salt spray, and immersion. The housing unit is also environmentally protected from ice, slush, mud, dust, extreme temperatures and rust, so it can be mounted anywhere.

Firestone F3 wireless air

Firestone’s new Air-Command F3 gives you the freedom to adjust your air springs to accommodate different loads and road conditions whether you are in or away from your vehicle and includes everything you need to get your system up and running.

Benefits of the Firestone Wireless Air Command F3


So add the convenience of wireless remote control of your air springs with the new Firestone Air-Command F3 wireless air system and take the work out of airing up your air bags.


firestone rr2581

You can order the new Firestone Wireless Air Command F3 air compressor kit online or by calling 1-800-358-4751.

Firestone Air Bag Kit 2250 Installation Video

Firestone Ride-Rite air bag kit 2250 is one of most popular Firestone air suspension kits and has been leveling the rear suspension of the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 2500 HD and 3500 series pickup trucks for years.

 
The air bag kit mounts on your Silverado or Sierra's rear axle and provides extra support using 2 firestone air bags. You simply inflate the air bags when towing your trailer or hauling a heavy load and then run them at a lower psi so you ride isn't impacted when unloaded.

A common question we get is "how hard it is to install?" Below is a video that shows how to install the kit and is helpful to watch before you get your tools out.

 Firestone Ride-Rite Kit 2250 Installation Video

 
Fits the following GM trucks:
 
2001-2010 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD and 3500
2001-2010 GMC Sierra 2500 HD and 3500

It fits both two and 4 wheel drive trucks and does not require drilling of the frame.


If you have any questions about the 2250 or any other air bag kits for your car, truck, van, suv or motorhome, feel free to give us a call at 1-800-358-4751 or email truckspring@truckspring.com