RAS RoadActive Suspension 3611-HD User Manual

1. Introduction

The RAS RoadActive Suspension 3611-HD system is a rear leaf spring upgrade designed to enhance your vehicle's towing, hauling, and overall driving performance. This innovative system reinforces rear leaf springs, effectively reducing squat and bounce, and improving stability. It functions as a 3-in-1 solution, combining the benefits of a helper spring, sway bar, and traction bar. Engineered for durability and reliability, the RAS system offers a maintenance-free solution for improved load and road handling.

2. Safety Information

Always prioritize safety during installation and operation. Ensure your vehicle is on a level surface and properly secured with wheel chocks and jack stands before working underneath it. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses and gloves. If you are unsure about any step, consult a qualified mechanic.

3. What's in the Box

Your RAS RoadActive Suspension 3611-HD kit includes the following components:

• Suspension kit with variable rated tension coil springs
• Brackets
• Necessary hardware for installation (bolts, nuts, spacers)

Figure 3.1: Overview of the RAS RoadActive Suspension 3611-HD kit components.

4. Tools Required

The following tools are required for installation:

• 24mm Wrench
• 13mm Wrench
• 15/16 inch Wrench
• 12mm Socket with a 3/8 inch Ratchet
• 1/2 inch Socket Wrench
• 1/2 inch Torque Wrench
• Wheel Chocks
• Floor Jack
• Jack Stands

5. Installation Instructions

The RAS system is designed for a straightforward bolt-on installation, typically taking less than an hour. No welding, fabricating, or other modifications are required.

5.1. Preparation

1. Ensure your vehicle is on a level surface.
2. Place wheel chocks behind both front wheels to prevent movement.
3. Loosen the rear lug nuts on both rear wheels, but do not remove them completely.
4. Locate the center of the rear differential and place a floor jack underneath it.
5. Raise the rear of the vehicle until you can securely place jack stands under the front eye of each rear leaf spring on both sides.
6. Lower the vehicle onto the jack stands, ensuring the floor jack remains in contact with the differential for added safety.
7. Remove the lug nuts and rear wheels.

5.2. Bump Stop Spacer Installation

1. Remove the bolt holding the factory bump stop using the appropriate size socket and extension (size may vary by year, typically 13mm to 14mm).
2. Install the supplied bump stop spacer. Insert the supplied bolt into the hexagonal counter-sunk hole of the spacer.
3. Align the two roll pins on the spacer with the two holes on the frame.
4. Fasten the spacer securely using the original bolt. This adjusts the bump stop position to prevent interference with the RAS product.
5. Reinstall the bump stop with the original nut and fasten securely.

5.3. RAS Unit Installation

Work on one side of the vehicle at a time, ensuring the leaf springs are in their maximum arch position.

1. Remove one RAS unit from the box.
2. Position the RAS unit on top of the leaf spring with the eye bracket hook facing the rear of the vehicle.
3. Position the eye bracket over the rear wrap eye of the leaf spring.
4. Move to the opposite end of the suspension and locate the axle connecting brackets.
5. Remove the 14mm bolt, nut, and spacer from the axle connecting brackets so they hang loosely to the sides of the leaf spring.
6. The axle connecting brackets have multiple holes. Using the second or third hole location (if proper clearance allows) may provide optimal strength for maximum towing and hauling capabilities.
7. Tighten the nylon locking nut into place. While tightening, ensure the bolt and spacer are located directly under the leaf spring.
8. Double-check the eye bracket to ensure it is in the proper place on top of the leaf spring.

5.4. Coil Spring Tension Adjustment

1. Position the two nuts into the middle of the threaded rod and tighten.
2. Hold the threaded rod in place using a 24mm wrench on the rearmost locknut.
3. Turn the front cap screw with a 14mm socket until the gap between the coils begins to open.
4. Locate the two spacing discs in your kit: a white 1mm disc and a black 2mm disc.
5. For up to 25% increased suspension strength, use the white disc as a spacer between the coils.
6. For up to 50% increased suspension strength, use the black disc as a spacer between the coils.
7. Once the proper preload of the coil spring is set, loosen the two jam nuts from each other.
8. One at a time, tighten and jam them against the coil spring to ensure everything is locked into place.

5.5. Final Steps

1. Double-check all hardware and fasteners for tightness.
2. Repeat the previous steps for the other side of the vehicle.
3. Bolt the rear wheels back into place.
4. Jack the vehicle off the jack stands and lower it down onto the ground.

5.6. Installation Videos

6. Operating Instructions

The RAS RoadActive Suspension system operates automatically once installed and properly adjusted. It works by reinforcing your vehicle's rear leaf springs, providing a 3-in-1 suspension upgrade that:

• Reduces Squat & Bounce: Reinforces leaf springs by up to 50% for superior towing and hauling performance, improving squat by up to 2-3 inches.
• Enhances Stability: Functions as a helper spring, sway bar, and traction bar, improving overall vehicle control and reducing body roll.
• Improves Ride Quality: Provides a better ride both loaded and unloaded, ensuring comfort and control.

Figure 6.1: Vehicle with RAS suspension maintaining level stance while towing.

7. Maintenance

The RAS RoadActive Suspension system is designed for zero upkeep. Unlike air-based systems, it requires no maintenance or adjustments after the initial installation. Periodically inspect all fasteners to ensure they remain tight, especially after the first few hundred miles of operation.

8. Troubleshooting

The RAS system is engineered for reliability. If you experience any unexpected issues after installation, please:

• Re-check all installation steps to ensure they were followed correctly.
• Verify that all nuts and bolts are tightened to the recommended specifications.
• Ensure the coil spring tension is set appropriately for your load requirements.

If problems persist, contact RAS customer support for assistance.

9. Specifications

10. Warranty and Support

RAS (RoadActive Suspension) is a U.S. company, the original creators of the RoadActive Suspension system, with a track record of durability and performance since 1998. For any support needs or warranty inquiries, please refer to the manufacturer's official website or contact their customer service directly. Ensure you retain your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.