Airbags Or Timbren?

I have a 2013 DRW 3500.

We just upgraded to a 44 ft DRV 5th wheel.

I towed it back home, and the truck performed flawlessly.

The hitch weight is in the 3k range, so the truck does squat some.

I'm looking at adding airbags in the rear or Timbren bags.

If I go with airbags, I will go ultimate with the built-in joist bumpers.

I like the simplicity of the Timbren (no airlines, no leaks, set and forget), but I have had airbags on for everything else.

Also, understand that you will default have a couple of inches of sag with the Timbren.

I am looking for anyone who has used Timbren for pros and cons,s as well as anyone hauling pretty heavy with airbags.

I appreciate any help you can provide.
Eric

2013 DRW, deleted, tuned, studded, and Banks monster ram.

I can only say, go with what you know about airbags.

I used Timbrens on a plow truck of mine; they worked but were harsh on the front.

I like the adjustability of airbags.

Don’t be swayed to using a glorified bump stop.

Just my $.0002 worth, adjusted for inflation.

Go with bags, have lots more adjustability and ride way better loaded.

I have used both and currently have airbags with a daystar cradle.

That way, I do not have to worry about over-extending the bags and have the adjustability for various loads.

With the Timbrens they are installed and forgotten.

If towing the same loads all the time, they are a better fit, in my opinion.

I would pass on the internal bump stop and just run 5-10lbs unloaded.

Depending on the bag's air pressure, it would take 10-15klbs to bottom out the axle to the frame.

I have run both setups.

I had an airlift kit with an onboard wireless compressor on my SRW one-ton.

Now I have Timbrens on my new dually.

The adjustable airbags were nice, but for the money and the risk of something starting to leak or fail on the road, I like the peace of mind of the Timbren setup.

Just install them, and you're done. Stock handling and ride while unloaded and a nice smooth ride when loaded with the big trailer.

I don't think you can go wrong, either way; just personal preference.

Good luck in whichever direction you decide to go.