Spring question
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New User
Joined: Nov 2014
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From: Greeley Co
Spring question
New Guy here, been lurking for a while. But need some opinions. We recently bought a 51 F1, with 302/c4/disc brakes.
It leans a little to the right in front, and both front springs are pretty much flat, so I thought the best plan would be to put new springs on the front. I can get original replacement, or a 3 inch drop which is a two leaf, instead of the original 8. It seems a little lower in the front already, and we are running 15" wheels. My question is do you thing the stance would be about the same, figuring the originals are weak, or would I expect the front to drop more. I could, of course lower the back as well, but would rather not spend the bucks if I don't have to.
Was going to post a picture but I guess I don't have enopugh posts yet.
It leans a little to the right in front, and both front springs are pretty much flat, so I thought the best plan would be to put new springs on the front. I can get original replacement, or a 3 inch drop which is a two leaf, instead of the original 8. It seems a little lower in the front already, and we are running 15" wheels. My question is do you thing the stance would be about the same, figuring the originals are weak, or would I expect the front to drop more. I could, of course lower the back as well, but would rather not spend the bucks if I don't have to.
Was going to post a picture but I guess I don't have enopugh posts yet.
Senior User
Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 277
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From: Sophia, NC
Welcome to the fray. I will suggest that you first do some visual inspections to see why it leans to the right. Could there possibly be some frame damage? Just a bad shock of broken leaf or bad shackle? Measure things out for peace of mind. Perhaps the engine was dropped in off center to the right.
You may want to go with original 8 leaf. From there check the stance and if needed then remove leafs to get the stance you want.
You may want to go with original 8 leaf. From there check the stance and if needed then remove leafs to get the stance you want.
Postmaster
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 3,005
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From: Santa Clarita
The correct way would be to buy new springs, and all the parts that go with it (shackles. pins, etc.) As far as springs, it depends on what you want. Do you want the truck to sit lower than stock? Then I'd go with the 3 inch lower. If the front is too low, you can remove leafs from the rearend to level it, or add a spacer between the leaf spring and straight axle. (not recommended but is a cheap way of raising it a bit) It's the same principle like lowering blocks, but since the axle is below the leaf spring, it causes the front to lift rather than lower.
Fleet Owner
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 27,299
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From: NM
Eaton makes the best replacement stock springs, but they have gotten very expensive. Since you aren't sure what you want, I'd pull them, check to see the condition of pins and bushings, and have the existing springs refurbished by a local shop. That can be simple re-arching, if in good condition, or replacement of leaves that are cracked. Pin condition is usually awful, because greasing is not something people are regular about. Having everything off will help you see total cost involved before you make a decision.
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New User
Joined: Nov 2014
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From: Greeley Co
Thanks for the suggestions. I was assuming the right spring needed rearching because I found an old repair bill saying as much. But you are right, lets find the reason first. My main reason for wanting to go to a two leaf would be for a softer ride. But I could probably drop a leaf in the rear, and level it some and soften the ride at the same time.
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