Introduction
Are you tired of your truck or van sagging under the weight of heavy cargo? Do you experience excessive body roll when cornering with a load? Or perhaps you simply want to improve the stability and handling of your vehicle, especially when towing? If any of these scenarios resonate with you, then the Hellwig LP-35 Helper Springs Suspension Kit might be the solution you’ve been searching for.
The Hellwig LP-35 is designed to provide additional support to your vehicle’s existing suspension system, enhancing its load-carrying capacity and improving overall stability. This review aims to provide you with a comprehensive and unbiased assessment of the Hellwig LP-35 Helper Springs Suspension Kit. We’ll delve into its features, benefits, installation process, performance, and overall value, so you can determine if it’s the right upgrade for your needs. This review is especially geared toward truck owners, van owners, and anyone who frequently tows trailers or carries heavy loads.
Understanding the Hellwig LP-35 Helper Springs Suspension Kit
Helper springs are essentially supplemental springs that work in conjunction with your vehicle’s factory suspension. Their primary purpose is to provide extra support when carrying heavy loads, preventing sagging, improving stability, and enhancing handling. The Hellwig LP-35 Helper Springs Suspension Kit is designed to accomplish all of these goals.
The Hellwig LP-35 kit typically consists of heavy-duty leaf springs that are installed above your vehicle’s existing leaf springs. These helper springs engage when the factory suspension begins to compress under load, providing additional support and preventing excessive sagging. They are constructed from high-quality spring steel and are designed for durability and long-lasting performance.
One key feature of the Hellwig LP-35 is its adjustability. The kit usually offers multiple settings, allowing you to fine-tune the amount of support provided based on your specific needs. This adjustability is crucial because it allows you to optimize the ride quality and handling for various load conditions. The LP-35 is designed to be compatible with a wide range of vehicles, including many popular trucks and vans. (More on compatibility later.)
The Hellwig LP-35 is designed to offer a significant increase in load-leveling capabilities. This means that the kit helps to distribute the weight more evenly across your vehicle’s axles, which improves stability and handling.
Key Features and Benefits: Unleashing the Potential
The Hellwig LP-35 Helper Springs Suspension Kit offers several key features and benefits that can significantly improve your vehicle’s performance and handling, especially when carrying heavy loads.
Load Leveling
One of the most significant benefits of the Hellwig LP-35 is its ability to level your vehicle when carrying heavy loads. When a vehicle is overloaded, the rear suspension often sags, causing the headlights to point upwards, reducing visibility. The Hellwig LP-35 helps to counteract this sagging, keeping the vehicle level and ensuring proper headlight aiming for safer driving.
Enhanced Stability and Handling
By providing additional support to the suspension, the Hellwig LP-35 reduces body roll and sway, especially when cornering or encountering uneven road surfaces. This translates to better handling and control, making your vehicle feel more stable and predictable, particularly when towing a trailer. This leads to a safer and more confident driving experience. The improvement in handling also extends to braking performance, as a level vehicle is less prone to nose-diving under hard braking.
Increased Load Capacity
While it’s important to understand that the Hellwig LP-35 does *not* increase your vehicle’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), it *does* improve its ability to handle heavy loads safely and comfortably. The additional support provided by the helper springs allows your vehicle to carry more weight without excessive sagging or compromising handling. Be sure to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual and never exceed the manufacturer’s GVWR. The actual weight capacity increase varies by vehicle, so refer to the manufacturer’s specifications for the Hellwig LP-35 kit that fits your particular make and model.
Sagging Reduction
Over time, repeated heavy loads can cause the factory suspension to sag prematurely. The Hellwig LP-35 helps to prevent this by providing additional support, reducing the strain on the existing suspension components. This not only improves the appearance of your vehicle but also helps to extend the lifespan of its suspension system.
Adjustability for Customization
The adjustability feature of the Hellwig LP-35 is a major advantage. It allows you to fine-tune the amount of support provided based on your specific needs. If you frequently carry heavy loads, you can set the springs to a higher setting for maximum support. If you only occasionally carry heavy loads, you can set them to a lower setting for a more comfortable ride when unloaded. This flexibility makes the Hellwig LP-35 a versatile solution for a variety of applications. Adjusting the springs is a straightforward process, typically involving adjusting u-bolts and tightening or loosening the connections.
The Installation Process: Getting it Done Right
The installation process for the Hellwig LP-35 Helper Springs Suspension Kit can vary depending on the specific vehicle model. Generally, it involves bolting the helper springs above the existing leaf springs.
The difficulty level of the installation can range from moderate to challenging, depending on your mechanical skills and experience. Some users may be comfortable tackling it as a DIY project, while others may prefer to have it professionally installed.
Common tools required for installation include wrenches, sockets, a torque wrench, and potentially a jack and jack stands. The estimated installation time can vary from a few hours to a full day, depending on your experience and the complexity of the installation.
Potential challenges during installation may include rusted bolts, tight spaces, and the need for specialized tools. It’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and to take all necessary safety precautions. Ensure that you properly torque all bolts to the specified values.
Performance in Action: Real-World Testing
To evaluate the performance of the Hellwig LP-35, it’s essential to conduct real-world testing under various conditions. This includes driving both loaded and unloaded, on different road surfaces, and potentially towing a trailer.
When driving unloaded, the ride quality may be slightly stiffer compared to the factory suspension. However, this is a trade-off for the added support and stability when loaded. In general, the ride is still comfortable and acceptable for most users.
When loaded, the Hellwig LP-35 makes a noticeable difference in handling and stability. The vehicle feels more planted and controlled, especially when cornering or encountering uneven road surfaces. The reduction in body roll is particularly noticeable, making the driving experience more confident and enjoyable. The load leveling capabilities are also evident, as the vehicle maintains a more level ride height under load.
When towing, the Hellwig LP-35 provides even greater benefits. The added support and stability reduce trailer sway and improve overall control, making towing safer and more comfortable.
The Good and the Not-So-Good: Pros and Cons
Like any product, the Hellwig LP-35 Helper Springs Suspension Kit has its pros and cons. Let’s take a look at the key advantages and disadvantages:
Pros
Significant improvement in load leveling capabilities.
Enhanced stability and handling, especially when towing.
Increased load capacity (within GVWR limits).
Reduced sagging and improved vehicle appearance.
Adjustable settings for customized performance.
Durable construction for long-lasting performance.
Contributes to safer towing and driving.
Cons
Possible increase in ride stiffness when unloaded (depending on the setting).
Potential for noise (squeaking) if not properly lubricated (apply grease periodically).
Cost can be a factor compared to other helper spring options.
Installation can be challenging for some users.
Vehicle Compatibility: Does it Fit Your Ride?
A crucial aspect of any suspension upgrade is compatibility. The Hellwig LP-35 is designed to fit a wide range of trucks and vans, but it’s essential to verify compatibility with your specific vehicle make, model, and year. Some popular vehicle applications include (but are not limited to):
Ford F-150, F-250, and F-350 series trucks
Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra series trucks
Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 series trucks
Toyota Tacoma and Tundra series trucks
Various vans, including Ford Transit, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, and Ram ProMaster
It’s important to note that there may be specific requirements or limitations regarding fitment depending on your vehicle’s suspension type (e.g., leaf spring or coil spring). Always consult the manufacturer’s website or a qualified mechanic to ensure proper fitment before purchasing. It is best to use the Hellwig website to confirm that your vehicle is on their fitment charts.
Exploring Alternatives: Other Options to Consider
While the Hellwig LP-35 is a solid choice, it’s always wise to consider alternative options. Some common alternatives include air springs, which offer adjustable load support and ride height, and other brands of helper springs.
Air springs typically offer a more comfortable ride and greater adjustability compared to the Hellwig LP-35, but they are also more expensive and require more complex installation. Other brands of helper springs may offer similar performance at a slightly lower price point, but they may not have the same level of adjustability or durability.
The Hellwig LP-35 stands out due to its balance of performance, durability, adjustability, and value. It’s a good choice for users who want a reliable and effective helper spring system without the complexity or expense of air springs.
The Price Tag: Assessing the Value Proposition
The price of the Hellwig LP-35 Helper Springs Suspension Kit typically falls within a competitive range for helper spring systems. It’s important to shop around and compare prices from different retailers to find the best deal.
Considering the benefits it provides, such as improved load leveling, handling, and stability, the Hellwig LP-35 offers good value for the money. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone who frequently carries heavy loads or tows trailers. The long-term value is enhanced by the potential for reduced wear and tear on your vehicle’s suspension.
Conclusion: Leveling Up Your Driving Experience
In conclusion, the Hellwig LP-35 Helper Springs Suspension Kit is a reliable and effective solution for improving the load-carrying capacity, stability, and handling of your vehicle. It’s a particularly good choice for truck owners, van owners, and anyone who frequently tows trailers or carries heavy loads.
While there may be a slight increase in ride stiffness when unloaded, the benefits of the Hellwig LP-35 far outweigh the drawbacks, especially when carrying a load. The adjustability feature allows you to fine-tune the performance to your specific needs, and the durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
If you’re looking to level up your driving experience and improve the safety and stability of your vehicle, the Hellwig LP-35 Helper Springs Suspension Kit is definitely worth considering. Click here to explore purchase options and pricing.
