Front leaf spring snapped - looking for code
Hotshot
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 18,849
Likes: 179
From: Puget Sound
...good set of impact sockets and a strong impact wrench.
...start spaying all nuts and bolts at least once per day until you do the install...
...remove the bumper. You will have to remove the support for the trans cooler or whatever cooler it supports to access/remove the bolts in the front of the spring...
...A ratchet strap is a huge help to pull the front axle fore or aft when attempting to align it with the index hole whether you are working alone or with a helper.
...Chock the rear tires and back into the chocks thus pre-loading them and set the emergency brake. If you can, use two sets of jack stands as the article states...
...start spaying all nuts and bolts at least once per day until you do the install...
...remove the bumper. You will have to remove the support for the trans cooler or whatever cooler it supports to access/remove the bolts in the front of the spring...
...A ratchet strap is a huge help to pull the front axle fore or aft when attempting to align it with the index hole whether you are working alone or with a helper.
...Chock the rear tires and back into the chocks thus pre-loading them and set the emergency brake. If you can, use two sets of jack stands as the article states...
Thread Starter
|
Freshman User
Joined: May 2016
Posts: 26
Likes: 0
You can do this in about four hours if you are handy. Three hours if you also have a good set of impact sockets and a strong impact wrench.
Either way, you will be thankful if you start spaying all nuts and bolts at least once per day until you do the install. Kroil, Sili-Kroil, or spearmint oil and transmission fluid works wonders.
On this e99 it wasn't necessary to remove the bumper. You will have to remove the support for the trans cooler or whatever cooler it supports to access/remove the bolts in the front of the spring. I put the bolts in the reverse way so I can skip this step just in case I ever have to do this again
A ratchet strap is a huge help to pull the front axle fore or aft when attempting to align it with the index hole whether you are working alone or with a helper.
Chock the rear tires and back into the chocks thus pre-loading them and set the emergency brake. If you can, use two sets of jack stands as the article states.
I don't think this rates a 7 out of 10...more like a 3 or 4.
Either way, you will be thankful if you start spaying all nuts and bolts at least once per day until you do the install. Kroil, Sili-Kroil, or spearmint oil and transmission fluid works wonders.
On this e99 it wasn't necessary to remove the bumper. You will have to remove the support for the trans cooler or whatever cooler it supports to access/remove the bolts in the front of the spring. I put the bolts in the reverse way so I can skip this step just in case I ever have to do this again
A ratchet strap is a huge help to pull the front axle fore or aft when attempting to align it with the index hole whether you are working alone or with a helper.
Chock the rear tires and back into the chocks thus pre-loading them and set the emergency brake. If you can, use two sets of jack stands as the article states.
I don't think this rates a 7 out of 10...more like a 3 or 4.
FTE Leadership Emeritus
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 27,354
Likes: 5,946
From: Lake Hartwell, GA
Thanks for all the replies. I used to do mechanic (engine) work for many years so I think I can do this as well. I have 1 set of of 3 ton jack stands, would that be adequate enough or should i buy an extra set of 4 tons so I can use both sets? I have also been using PB blaster for the past few days and will continue till my parts come in on Monday. That should help taking things apart.
It is nice to have frame supported by one set and axle byou the other instead of being held by the suspension you are working on/around.
Thread Starter
|
Freshman User
Joined: May 2016
Posts: 26
Likes: 0
When I bought my truck, I picked up another set of Jack stands. Since then I have used them both many times, especially when replacing the rear leaf springs and installing the air bags.
It is nice to have frame supported by one set and axle byou the other instead of being held by the suspension you are working on/around.
It is nice to have frame supported by one set and axle byou the other instead of being held by the suspension you are working on/around.
Lead Driver
Joined: Jun 2013
Posts: 5,648
Likes: 893
From: north of Minneapolis, MN
The truck by itself only weighs 7500lbs...not quite 4 tons. It's not like you're going to balance the entire weight of the truck on one stand.
FTE Leadership Emeritus
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 27,354
Likes: 5,946
From: Lake Hartwell, GA
I use 2x12's under the frame jacks laid flat and stacked in order to get them tall enough.
Super Moderator
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 29,380
Likes: 118
From: Central Coast of CA
Stewart
Senior User
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 223
Likes: 0
From: south cali
Before starting a new thread, i'll give it a shot here first. I am in the process of replacing my leaf springs. I am more concerned with ride quality rather than capacity. I want a spring pack that will deliver the softest ride possible.
So my question is: Would the 43-812 #2030 lbs capacity deliver a better ride than the X codes #2630 lbs capacity. ?????
There is also the 43-814 rated at #2230 lbs capacity.
Is anyone running the lower capacity U-codes that can give an opinion on ride quality compared to the stockers ?
Are the X codes stiffer than the OEM springs. ??
thanks
So my question is: Would the 43-812 #2030 lbs capacity deliver a better ride than the X codes #2630 lbs capacity. ?????
There is also the 43-814 rated at #2230 lbs capacity.
Is anyone running the lower capacity U-codes that can give an opinion on ride quality compared to the stockers ?
Are the X codes stiffer than the OEM springs. ??
thanks
FTE Stories
Ford Trucks for Ford Truck Enthusiasts
3 Best / 3 Worst Parts of Modern Ford Ownership
Brett Foote
10 Amazing Upgrades That Solve Common Ford Truck Owner Headaches
Pouria Savadkouei
Every 2026 Ford Engine Explained
Brett Foote
10 Ugly Ford Trucks That We Still Kinda Love
Joe Kucinski
10 Things Every Truck Owner NEEDS (2026 Edition)
Michael S. Palmer
Rezvani's Latest Post-Apocalyptic Monster Is a Ford F-150 Raptor Underneath
Verdad Gallardo
Top 10 Most Expensive Ford Trucks Ever Sold on Bring a Trailer
Joe Kucinski
2027 Ford Super Duty Buyer's Guide (Every Model, Engine, & Package)
Brett Foote
Top 10 Ford Truck Tragedies
Joe Kucinski
Hotshot
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 18,849
Likes: 179
From: Puget Sound
If you're turning your truck into a car, the 2030 capacity will just carry the nose and you. If you put anything in the bed or carry your capacity of passengers, you may want to look at that 2230 capacity at a minimum.
These trucks are freaking heavy, and leaf springs suck for ride.
These trucks are freaking heavy, and leaf springs suck for ride.
Posting Guru
Joined: Sep 2014
Posts: 2,404
Likes: 3
From: Asheville-where weird is
Before starting a new thread, i'll give it a shot here first. I am in the process of replacing my leaf springs. I am more concerned with ride quality rather than capacity. I want a spring pack that will deliver the softest ride possible.
So my question is: Would the 43-812 #2030 lbs capacity deliver a better ride than the X codes #2630 lbs capacity. ?????
There is also the 43-814 rated at #2230 lbs capacity.
Is anyone running the lower capacity U-codes that can give an opinion on ride quality compared to the stockers ?
Are the X codes stiffer than the OEM springs. ??
thanks
So my question is: Would the 43-812 #2030 lbs capacity deliver a better ride than the X codes #2630 lbs capacity. ?????
There is also the 43-814 rated at #2230 lbs capacity.
Is anyone running the lower capacity U-codes that can give an opinion on ride quality compared to the stockers ?
Are the X codes stiffer than the OEM springs. ??
thanks
I have no experience with U codes. I would not consider having a spring that is lighter than a V code on these trucks due to the fact that they would be mostly compressed a majority of the time.
In my experience, NEW X codes ride significantly better than worn out factory V codes. X codes are firm but not harsh and handling will improve. Depending upon what came on your truck they will be stiffer but not by much. Maybe consider having a custom set built.
Hotshot
Joined: Mar 2014
Posts: 10,750
Likes: 1,065
From: Douglassville, PA
I went with the 43-818 springs and I'm tickled silly with them. Aftermarket claims that they're equal to the X codes but they are not. They are rated for #2630 and I am happy with them. It is a truck and I can still drink my coffee without sloshing it all over the cab. But then I removed a lift kit with an 11 spring stack up front and coming from that I feel like I'm driving a Cadillac. ATS Springs is a sponsor here and have been used by quite a few of us. Give them a call, they know springs and can dial you in on what you're looking to do. Leaf Springs and Suspension Parts by Auto and Truck Springs
Senior User
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 223
Likes: 0
From: south cali
Thanks guys... i am going to go with the X springs. I am going to look for a retailer in the Los Angeles area where i can pick them up ASAP and not have to wait for a set from the east coast.
thanks
thanks
Lead Driver
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 7,093
Likes: 147
From: San Diego, CA
That puppy didn't 'just' snap, I see some rust there, which indicates that it's been broken for a while. There is a manufacturer's sticker on your driver's side door jam and down near the bottom are spring codes. Expect to find a 'V' or maybe an 'X' and an 'A', with 'A' being the rear springs. Do you want to go genuine Ford or do you want aftermarket? There is a 43-818 that they claim is a Ford 'X' but it's not really...but it's close. I used those and am happy with them.
I've never done any heavy suspension work and I did this in my driveway in about 5 hours. used ratchet straps to help move axle around for alignment. Fortunately not much rust in the south so I don't remember any hardware issues other than using a map torch to heat a couple of the larger bolts. Very do-able
And my 43-818 springs leveled my truck nicely
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...e-springs.html
And my 43-818 springs leveled my truck nicely
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...e-springs.html
My front end (no driver) weighs 4000lbs. I use 3-ton jackstands but IMO I wouldn't go below 2 tons in case the other one fails. Just my .02.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
carl2591
1999 - 2003 7.3L Power Stroke Diesel
4
Jun 14, 2015 06:03 AM
drydocked
Brakes, Steering, Suspension, Tires, & Wheels
4
Sep 12, 2004 03:37 AM