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U code to X code spring upgrade?

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Old Apr 30, 2015 | 08:54 PM
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U code to X code spring upgrade?

I've been doing a lot of research on this and other sites regarding upgrading the front leaf springs on my 2001 F250 7.3 crew cab 4x4. My front spring eye bushings sound like they need to be replaced and I'd like a more level stance anyway. According to the sticker in the drivers side door jam, my front springs are U code. I've read several threads where folks said their V code springs sagged over time, so I'm exploring X code springs. I use the truck primarily to tow a camper so the unloaded ride isn't a big concern, but I do live on a rough dirt road so I'm not dismissing it.

Most of the threads I've read are guys changing springs on Excursions.* I'm hoping to find someone who might have upgraded from U code to X code springs on a F250 and what kind of results you had in ride quality and lift.

I'm also hoping that someone can speak specifically to the X code springs on sdtrucksprings.com.* I realize that the weight rating is closer to a Ford V code, so that's why I'm hoping someone has some experience with them on a crew cab F250.

Thanks in advance for any input!
 
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Old Apr 30, 2015 | 09:07 PM
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My 02 in sig came with "V" 's, for what it's worth a put another spring on so I have a 3 spring front axle, granted I did this years ago but it was the best thing I ever did to the truck, the ride was much better! I'm just sayin.





The pic isn't the best but there's over 1000lbs hanging on there. Just look at how much wheel well to top of tire there is.

If you look closely you can see that there is not much differance in the wheel well to tire differance with or without the plow.





Here's how it stands with nothing on the front.
 
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Old Apr 30, 2015 | 09:29 PM
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Do you recall what brand add a leaf you used? Was anything else necessary...adjustable track bar, shocks, etc.? How's the ride without the plow?

Thanks!
 
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Old Apr 30, 2015 | 09:42 PM
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Originally Posted by scbowhntr
Do you recall what brand add a leaf you used? Was anything else necessary...adjustable track bar, shocks, etc.? How's the ride without the plow?

Thanks!
I don't recall the brand, I went to a heavy duty truck spring shop in Mn and told them what I was looking for, they had them ready to go. You will need new U bolts and a new center bolt I be leave, it's been all of 12 years since I did this. Beleve it or not my truck rode better after I added the spring. If I remember correctly I didn't even remove the springs from the truck, just dropped the axle and added the spring. Air tools will be your best friend to do this!
 
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Old Apr 30, 2015 | 11:02 PM
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If I remember right, you'll see a touch over an inch and a quarter going from U to X codes.

For what it's worth, if it were my money, I'd be buying from ATS instead of sdtrucksprings. I've heard and read tons of complaints about the latter company's springs sagging out after a bit.
 
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Old May 1, 2015 | 06:46 AM
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Thanks for the input! It's easy to get bogged down in all this with so many options.
 
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Old May 1, 2015 | 09:43 AM
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I totally agree with what Psyclopse has said, you should see approx. 1.25" more ride height from X codes over your U codes and ATS can supply a spring that actually meets the Ford "code" specs. You will want to talk to Junior at ATS (a site supporting vendor) and fill him in on exactly what you are looking to accomplish.
 
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Old May 1, 2015 | 06:50 PM
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Thanks for the heads up on sdtrucksprings. I figured the cheapest option may not be the best.
 
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