I have a 1986 F-150 2WD with the AH spring code, which is a 3/1 25x32 spring pack (very light duty). The left rear pack has one broken leaf, half of which spit out on the road recently. I have a few questions for the experts here:

1. Could anyone provide some advice on where to get springs? Local spring shops was $350+ to "repair" the springs, and a local spring shop (Eaton Detroit Spring) has no replacements in stock. Ford dealerships no longer carry spring for the 1986 model year.

2. I would like to upgrade to a 4/1 spring pack for a little more load capacity. There seems to be several different lengths available (25x32 and 25x31). What would be the consequences of using the shorter spring on my truck (i.e., lowered ride height)?

Thanks!!!

 

jcwhitney, summit, LMC, Ford, Autowreckers

 

Yes, you can get stock leaf springs from most of the major suppliers, check the FTE sponsors list first. One of the best aftermarket spring companies is Deaver, but then you're looking at race-type products. There's always the local salvage yard, or perhaps a buddy that installs lifted rear spring packs to fit larger tires.

 

Thanks for the advice!!! It seems that everyone I called had the springs on back order, with a 2+ week leadtime. So, I ended up ordering the parts from a local spring manufacturer, Detroit Spring, which will save me on shipping.