We're new to the forum and anticipate receiving our Scamp 19 next April 2024. I want to mitigate the typical Tacoma rear sag by installing Firestone Ride-Rite air bags, but the site literature states "not recommended for use with bed hitches. I don't see a physical conflict in hardware and Firestone doesn't say why. Are there any other Tacoma/Scamp 19 owners out there that use Rite-Rite or other brand? What's your experience? Thanks in advance!
Wed, 04/12/2023 - 15:39
#1
Airbags for Tacoma to tow Scamp 19?
I was towing my 2004 Scamp, bought in 2013, with a 2013 Tacoma 6-cyl, 4 door, short bed and I did not use air bags or any other boost. The sag was minimal. For a year now, I am towing it with a 2021 Tacoma, same configuration. Same result, minimal sag. I mounted the rails in the bed myself. In both cases one rail uses one pair of the bed mounting bolts, the other rail is mounted to the bed and the rails are connected by two steel straps, to distribute towing forces better.
The tongue weight of the Scamp 19 is about 600 lbs, which should be OK without any suspension boost. Maybe you should wait until you have the Scamp before you make the decision. Other members should pipe in on this subject. Good luck, and welcome to the club.
-Paul
2004 Scamp 19 Deluxe,
2021 Tacoma, Double Cab, 6 cyl. 4WD
Colorado
I tow a deluxe scamp 19 with a 2006 tacoma access cab 4x4 v6. Rear sag is not a problem and I don't have any suspension assists. I agree with Paul to try it without first and see if you need to do anything to the rear suspension.
Welcome to the forum.
Wayne
wls53
I have towed a Scamp 19' with a 2003 Toyota Tacoma, a 2014 Nissan Frontier and a 2021 Nissan Frontier. I have never modified a suspension. Sag has never been an issue. I also would recommend waiting, tow the trailer, then decide if anything else is needed.
2020 Scamp 19’ Deluxe, 2021 Nissan Frontier Pro4X
I installed Hellwig leaf spring helper on my Tacoma when I had a 19 Deluxe
They are not expensive and super easy to install. The Deluxe with the wood interior makes for a heavy tongue weight. Add to that campfire wood and a 70 pound generator and your near the limits of the truck bed payload. The Hellwig helpers made the truck feel close to normal without the load. You'll like them. I have a Jeep Gladiator now and pull a 16' Scamp Std. and I installed Suma Springs on it, does the same thing.
You need coil springs to put the air bags in.