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Front spring question

Old Mar 9, 2003 | 10:58 AM
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Post Front spring question

I have a Q about front springs on a '71 F-250 C/S 2wd.

What is the correct clearance between the axle and bumpstop? Mine has 1-1/4" on one side and 1-5/8" on the drivers side. Obviously, my springs are agging; but my radius arm bushings are not in the best of shape. Could this be one of the causes or should I just buy new springs anyway? Should I get variable rate coils or just stock?
My bumpstops are looking a little crushed............

Oh, I have already replaced the shockswith gas-charged units from NAPA.

Any input will be appreciated .
 
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Old Mar 10, 2003 | 06:38 AM
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Front spring question

1 1/2" or so sounds just about right. I had a 76 F-250 2wd and it only had about 1 1/2" to the bumpstops in front.
 
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Old Mar 12, 2003 | 12:54 AM
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Question Front spring question

72f100, how fresh was your front end on the '76? Was this with good radius arm bushings? What about the "eye" bushings on the inside ends of the "I" beams? How critical is this to how the truck sits on the springs?
Oh, I had A/C, but I took it out; it was an aftermarket add-on and was completely discharged.
Saved me 88lbs.!
 
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Old Mar 18, 2003 | 08:14 PM
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Arrow Front spring question

So, no other opinions?

OK, maybe it's a dumb question. But before I tear into this, I wanted to get an idea of what the axle-to-bumpstop clearance should be. If I sell the truck as-is, I need to know how much of a safety issue it might be. Not only that, but the truck looks funny leaning to the passenger side..............
 
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Old Mar 19, 2003 | 07:15 AM
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Front spring question

Sorry, been busy lately.
The front suspension parts on the 76 I had were in pretty good shape. Other than your truck leaning to one side I don't think there is a whole lot to worry about. Sagging springs are more of a comfort problem than a safty issue as they will bottom out easier. I believe around 1 1/2" to the bump stops is about normal for these trucks and I would'nt worry about it. If it really bothers you I would look into buying a spring from a junk yard to replace the side that is sagging. If your selling it I would just inform the buyer that the spring is sagging a bit, like they wouldn't notice that anyway, and that it may need replaced.
 
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Old Mar 20, 2003 | 08:50 AM
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Front spring question

Thanks for the reply

I'll take your advice and leave it be. The next time I go to a "pull-your-part" yard; I'll see if there is a spring laying around to change out the saggy one.
 
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