I have an '03 DII, all std equipt at this time. I'm getting ready to replace shocks and springs. Are the standard springs and shocks sufficient for towing a 4000# travel trailer long distances or should I go with HD? Front? Rear? I also tow a 3500# boat trailer. Both trailers have brakes. I do some off-roading but no Moab-type stuff.

 

How much tongue weight?

Either way, HD springs will probably net you a better ride/mpg while towing, but then more harsh while not towing. To answer whether it would be "sufficient", you'd need the tongue weight.

 

Some folks may yell at me, but if you normally need regular springs except for occasional towing, I'd consider these spring inserts:

SPC Coil Spring Spacers / Stabilizers - Import Replacement Parts, LLC

They won't pop out like some of the twist in one's, and you don't have to remove the spring to install them. Easy to put them in while towing/remove while not. I used something similar on a Jeep Cherokee that worked great.

 

So, I won't laugh at you, but I have to say that is the worst possible thing you can do to a set of collapsed coils and warn out shocks.

Shark, a medium duty lift from OME would handle what your needs are. Buy their Sport Shocks and steering stabilizer and you'll be set.
By the way, when was the last time you services your diffs, t/case and tranny, might want to consider this prior to your hauling. Also, have you ever rebuilt or replaced your front drive shaft, so it won't fail and take your tranny with it?

 

Thanks for the feedback, guys.

Mike- I had the diffs, t/case and tranny all serviced last year so they're good. I haven't done anything w/ the front drive shaft.

Dan7- Tongue wt for the travel trailer is 369 and I'm not sure about the boat...trailer and boat are about 2700#. The trailer has a weight distribution hitch.

 

My intent was not that he use those on the old springs, but not have to buy HD springs and suffer a harsh ride just for occasional towing. Thanks for not laughing/yelling anyway

 

Mike- How critical is the front drive shaft rebuild and what am I looking at $$$?

 

It's about $100 to rebuild and $300 to buy a HD one. I bought the HD one. Many a rover nut has lost their religion to the prop-shaft rebuild.

 

Dan- Did you buy the parts and DIY or did you have it done?

 

^answer in bold.