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Hey guys,
New on here and new to America. Moved over from the UK to the lovely South Carolina.
I've got myself a 1970 F250 CS 2wd and I've been busy on doing it up. Suspension is next on my list but I need help on my rear leaf springs.
It looks like there has been an add on at some point to the under side of the leafs. Can anyone shed any light on what this is? I assume it's to stiffen up the suspension. If I was to remove it will it lower the ride hight and make it softer?
Also I need new shocks are the ones fitted factory?
Welcome to USA and FTE.
I would remove the add-a-leafs. Given their condition, removing won't change much. I think the outer clamp would have had to be farther out to do anything. I would just remove the clamp brackets and cut the leaf off with a cut off wheel. Don't think you will get u bolts off/on with the rust.
Those shocks are some sort of 'spring assist' (aka band aid). I would remove, it should soften ride somewhat.
Sometimes though, Joe Bloggs will add a leaf or two when the original pack itself is knackered. The rubber bushings in the shackles are junk by now too, probably. Spring packs contribute a lot to ride handling, and braking as well.
The bracket at the rear of the leaf pack is what makes it a "Flex-o--matic" system.. OEM from Ford which effectively shortens the spring's length thereby stiffening it. Those brackets stay.
I'd remove the add-al-leaf under the leaf pack and the associated (square) U-clamps and plates.
Concur with the shocks... not OEM.
Btw, it'll still ride stiff but every lil bit helps.
Thanks for the advice, I think I will get the add-a-leafs removed, this truck is pritty much a commuter and the odd trash hauling but nothing of great weight. I won't be towing either as the rear tow bumper looks alittle rusty!!! Where it's bolted on.
Yeah my next purchase is gonna be new shocks all round, the ride is very bouncy and soft so I imagine they are shot. seen some good recommendations on here for brands so gonna get that sorted soon.
Thanks again guys, I've been busy with this truck since I've had it. Brakes, service, cleaning, electrics etc etc and I got a lot of good info from this site. I thought I was handy when it came to mechanics but this truck has tested me lol
