I bought a '99 4WD Ranger. I don't know what the old owner did to it but the rear springs are weak.

I don't haul a lot of stuff but it is one of the reasons I bought a truck, that and to tow a small car on a dolly once a year or less.

It is a short cab short bed 4x4 so I imagine it got the weakest springs from the factory. I hauled a 302 in the back the other day and the rear had a major squat going. Headlights were pointed up etc. I know it is a big hunk of iron but I bet it only weighs 500lbs. I had first pulled it tight to the tailgate but that wasn't working so I stopped and moved it up to the cab which helped distribute the load but it was still bad.

I'd like to be able to haul my motorcycle in there at some point but it weighs a little more than the 302, so I don't know if it will do it.

I've been looking around all the Ranger forums and all the spring upgrades I've found involve raising the truck. I don't want to lift it at all.

Would 4 door Explorer springs fit? I don't expect it to haul a ton but 750lbs or 1000 lbs would be nice. Are there any other Ford springs to look for?

Ideas?

 

You can always add helper air bags to the back to even it out when you decide to load and haul. They're really not that expensive. If you do go that route, I'd find a good set of leafs (stock size) and replace the worn out ones.

Just an idea.

 

Id start by just replacing the leafs. You should be able to haul that easy.