Too stiff truck suspension

[WVhillbilly]

My company truck is a 2011 F250, gas, 4x4.

I'll be getting a new truck in a couple months and will have a chance to buy this one cheap(ish) for probably $3500-4K

It's got 160K miles on it, and has had some major repairs done in the last couple years. But I think it will make a decent beater truck for around the house.

The issue is, it rides like shit.
I know it's an F250, E rated tires and all, but I've been in other F250s similar to mine that didn't ride this bad.

Do the higher end models have softer springs?
Is it a matter of changing shocks? These shocks are not old or worn, but they are stock.

Would a small (2-3") lift with progressive springs help?
If I need to put air bags on the back to retain payload that's fine, I just don't want to keep rattling my teeth loose when driving it.

Or is this a lost cause?

 

[gm350reratliff]

Most likely it has the heavy front suspension package, basically a higher spring rate for bumpers, winches, snow plows, etc., and probably the same for the rear. With that option, even Ford notes that it will have a harsher ride quality. Not sure what your budget is but some good shocks like Bilstein 5100’s would probably help or you could go all out with a complete suspension package from Carli and have it ride like a caddy https://www.carlisuspension.com/ford-leveling-dominator-30-system.html. There’s a lot of in between options as well. I would also look closely at all the bushings and replace what is needed.

 

[WVhillbilly]

I don't think it has the heavy duty suspension, not if it costs extra.
My employer wouldn't spend a dime for that.

Window sticker is still in the truck I think, if it is I'll check.
Bushings and all other front end parts have been replaced in the last 15K miles.

All of these trucks sag in the rear if you put even a little bit of weight in them, more than I think an F250 should.

Mine sits level with just one tool box and a few hundred pounds of tools in it.

I don't mind putting $800-1200 into it, but not more.

Might look into getting Doetsch Tech shocks for it, my son has them on his lifted XJ and they made a huge difference in the ride.
If it turns out to have heavier than normal springs on it, I'll look into new ones or maybe some take offs.

It's going to be used as a truck, so I don't want a big lift under it.
Nor do I want to pile money into a truck with over 160K miles on it.