Swapping leaf springs

banshee2 · #1 (**permalink**) 02-15-2004, 08:20 PM

I would really appreciate it if some would help me out with the answer or steer me in the correct direction.

I tried asking this question in the suspension area but didn't get a response, so I will try it here.

Would anyone know if I could use both the front and rear springs from a 2002 ford f-350 on a 1993 Ford f-350, both vehicles are single rear wheel?

thanks for any info....

Dave Sponaugle · #2 (**permalink**) 02-15-2004, 09:23 PM

Measure the distance between the spring bolts.
If they are the same length they will work.

Call a salvage yard and ask them what years are interchangable with your truck year.
A spring shop can give you the same info, but they will wanna sell you new ones, so they might not be so forth coming with the info.

banshee2 · #3 (**permalink**) 02-16-2004, 08:39 AM

Dave,

I did measure the eye bolts and the measurement was close but my truck is down on the helpers so I was suspect of my measurement.

I will check with the salvage yard and see what they say.

Thanks so much for you help.

paul

kidoo · #4 (**permalink**) 02-16-2004, 08:33 PM

Hi, how far should the front leaf spring be from the rubber bumper? Mine are about one inch from it, I want to change my lead too.

Dave Sponaugle · #5 (**permalink**) 02-16-2004, 09:29 PM

That seems to be about normal from most I have looked at. My 86 only had 3/4" and was bottoming out constantly. When I installed my plow it was on the bumpers when the blade was up.

I went to NAPA and got a set of Ride Rite air helpers for 300 dollars. Gained 5000 pounds capacity on the front axle and depending on the amount of air in the bags from 0 to 2.5" of extra clearance. I run 25 pounds of pressure at all times and 90 when I have my plow on. Best investment I made due to better ride quality since I bought the truck.

bartspedden · #6 (**permalink**) 02-19-2004, 08:08 PM

Dave,

Did you ever replace the springs? I only have about 1/2 inch between the frame and the bump stop and was planning on swapping the springs with new ones this weekend. I don't run a plow on her, but I do a fair amount of off roading. Would you recomend the Ride Rites for off roading?

Thanks,

Bart

Dave Sponaugle · #7 (**permalink**) 02-20-2004, 12:54 AM

Never did replace the springs. I think the Ride Rite is worth its weight in gold. Easy to adjust with an air hose. Get the spring stop away from the bumper block and keep it there. Since the springs are not bottoming out the ride was way better as soon as I aired them up. I have really been thinging about adding a set to the rear as well. They also make a kit that lets you adjust the air pressure from the drivers seat. IE more clearance when you need it with the twist of a knob. Air ride is also much better than any spring ever thought about being able to provide.

bartspedden · #8 (**permalink**) 02-20-2004, 10:10 AM

Thanks for the info! For $300 you've convinced me. I'll take some pictures the install and post them.

bart