My '06 Sprinter cargo (long and tall) has a GVW of 8550 lbs. A sticker on the door frame says to never exceed 3500 lbs of cargo+passengers. Can I modify the suspension to increase the weight another 1000 lbs? The rear only has 1 leaf spring. Would it simply be a matter of adding another spring to each side (and putting on tires that could handle the increased load?) What about the front?
Thanks!
Campedersen, There's more to increasing the weight capacity than just installing another spring. The van is a totally engineered system. Consider the weight distribution, the extra load on the braking, and the integrity of the shell. for starters. Loading pallets of freight on the floor is different than hanging heavy cabinets on the walls or ceiling.
There are some great posts on center of gravity issues. You can use the search bar at the top to locate them. Weight needs to be distributed evenly to not upset the handling of the vehicle. Too much to the rear and you get the reaction many try to overcome by installing expensive shock absorbers. Loading the rear make the front wander.
Loading the top is sometimes compensated by sway bars, but only to a degree.
The front spring is a composite unit, and I have not read anything that offers an increased front load capacity. I stopped in to a couple of excellent spring shops to discuss the front end when I thought that was my problem. Their solutions were the same. Adjust the load to keep the vehicle balanced.
A far more reasonable solution might be to pay careful attention to the selection of materials you intend to use. Furniture is heavy. So are mattresses and appliances. 7.5 gallons of water(1 cu. ft.) weigh 62 lbs. Batteries can add 200-300 lbs.