Just as you wouldn’t overload a packhorse, it’s just not right to overload your workhorse van. Sure, a Ram ProMaster van is designed to carry heavy cargo (rated for 4,440 pounds, max), but nobody would want to drive it nose high. That’s a problem Hellwig has been correcting since its founding back in 1946.
For the ’14-to-’15 Ram ProMaster, Hellwig’s helper spring provides extra load support by inserting another leaf spring underneath the stock leaf pack. Since the extra leaf is progressive, being used more as the suspension compresses, the ride remains smooth when running empty, without jarring the driver.
Note, however, that even with helper springs, the GVWR should not be exceeded. This component is designed to better the suspension’s stability and handling when carrying a substantial load. Hellwig makes no claim about increasing the GVWR, since that spec is also based on the frame, suspension, brakes, and ring-gear size. Follow along as we install the helper spring on Hellwig’s own ProMaster.
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Hellwig uses a Ram ProMaster not only as a display vehicle but also to carry large loads of its suspension products. For the ’14-to-’15 Ram ProMaster 2500 or 3500, Hellwig’s helper spring (Part No. 9665) provides extra load support.
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The Ram ProMaster has a gaping cargo area, allowing large loads to be easily maneuvered into the bed with a forklift. But a big load in the rear can create an uneven, nose-high ride, which a Hellwig helper spring can minimize.
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Replace the factory U-bolt nuts with the Hellwig extension nuts. Make sure the machined steps of the new nuts are facing down and reuse the factory washers.
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Loosely attach the five-hole plate with the stud facing up and only to the tire side of the U-bolts by threading the two 14mm bolts and washers into the extension nuts.
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Insert the Hellwig helper spring underneath the factory leaf pack. Slide the Hellwig spring between the axle and the five-hole plate with the bumpstops facing up.
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Attach the Hellwig helper spring by threading the two remaining inner 14mm bolts (with a washer) through the five-hole plate and into the bottom of the extension nuts already attached to the factory U-bolts. Make sure the bolt is resting in the center hole of the leaf spring as well. Torque the 14mm bolts to 90 ft-lb of torque. After 100 miles, recheck the torques and then check on a regular basis thereafter.
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Here’s how the Hellwig helper spring looks once it’s installed. Adding Hellwig helper springs can reduce the amount of compression on the rear spring pack when the cargo bay is heavily loaded.
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Using a Hellwig stabilizer bar in combination with a helper spring is the ideal setup, offsetting both body roll and an uneven suspension load.
