I am trying to solve a harsh riding problem with my van. I have a wheelchair assessable 2008 Econoline van. It is registered as a 150 but I’m told it has 250 frame and drive train. It has 8 lug wheels. It has a 2” lift on the frame and a 5” drop in the floor.
The rear suspension ride very harsh. Put different shocks and new leaf springs. Has LT 225-17 Michelin tires. Has A wheelchair lift and the van weighs in at 7000 lbs. Also have air bags installed for when we travel for the extra weight. Would special shocks or lighter tires help? Any suggestion would be appreciated
frustrated

 

I am assuming you mean a harsh ride. It sounds like your van is more of a 3/4 ton van than a half ton which was modified.. A 3/4 ton van is made to carry heavy loads at the cost of a soft ride. You have already replaced the items which would have the biggest impact on ride quality. Softer riding tires might help but you stand a good chance of experiencing an annoying sway in the rear from those tires.Make sure the tires are not over inflated, I don't think there's much else you can do without creating an undesirable problem.You can try different tires but the LT's you have are made for the heavier loads.

 

Another question. If I add a rear sway bar to this van will it make it ride a rougher? Handle bumps better?