Are these the same as what came on the Excursions?

http://littlerock.craigslist.org/pts/5868632530.html

 

Your 7.3 EX came with D code front springs which have a 4700lb rating, the U codes have a 4800lb rating but have slightly more arch built into them. According to my cheat sheet decent U codes should give a PSD EX about 1.3" of additional ride height. Just for reference, the popular V codes that lots of we EX folks have used are rated at 5200lbs and would give about 1.5" of lift.

 

Thanks for the info. I am going to see how many miles they have on them then.

 

Oh boy 1.5" yes yes~~~ sounds good george

 

Is 144k too many miles? $75 is a bargain but I don't want to have to do it again.

 

Are you trying to fix something on your EX or just looking for a little bit of lift and a firmer ride?
To make a general assumption, if your Ex has more than 144k miles those U codes "should" be in better shape than your stock D codes. Again, just making a generalized assumption of fairly equal use and abuse over those miles.
Swapping the front springs is a pretty easy straight forward job, just get new U bolts, stock sized replacements will work fine.

 

Current springs only have about a half inch clearance from bump stops with only 125k miles.

 

I put u-codes on years ago. I actually got nearly 1.75" but the springs I used weren't very old. It definitely got it up off the bump stops. As a matter of fact a couple years ago both stops finally fell off. Literally as I was standing next to it one day, one came rolling out.

I'm sure it's settled since then but it still sits much better than the D codes, and I have no concern running without bump stops at all. More than enough clearance.

FWIW, I also added Roadmaster Active Suspension with the idea it was just a test to see if it was what people back in the day said it was. It was like night and day!!! Also added some height so it's level when towing and has the perfect slight rake when empty. It also doesn't sag when I fill up, nor does it feel "squishy", even with weight from passengers, towing etc. It's much more stable. It may have been the best thing I ever did. Handling is night and day better.

I'm sure had I went the full spring swap route I'd be happier and able to run 35's, but now it sits great, handles great and still fits in the garage!