Leaf Spring Help
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Leaf Spring Help
I'm needing to replace the rear leaf springs on my 1985 F150 4x4 but need some help over which to buy. I believe I need 25x31 but my question is with the 3+1 vs 4+1 springs. The 3+1s that I can find online all around around 1785lbs each and the 4+1s are around 2450lbs each. It has 3+1s on it now but I bought it with completely wore out springs so I don't know how the ride was with good springs. I know the 4+1s will ride rougher but how bad is it?
Also does anyone have any guess on the split between the weight over each axle? The truck weighed 4580 with me in it and the rear gas tank full (Swb single cab 351w 4x4 with 33s and a box with a spare in it if your setup is similar and was wondering seeing the weight). Is 1800-2000 a good guess? That'd give me a theoretical payload of 1500lbs with the smaller 3+1s at 1785 right?
Also does anyone have any guess on the split between the weight over each axle? The truck weighed 4580 with me in it and the rear gas tank full (Swb single cab 351w 4x4 with 33s and a box with a spare in it if your setup is similar and was wondering seeing the weight). Is 1800-2000 a good guess? That'd give me a theoretical payload of 1500lbs with the smaller 3+1s at 1785 right?
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Joined: Jan 2001
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From: Virginia
Your payload is really determined by the rear axle rating and your tire ratings. The springs will help support the weight and keep it more level under load, but you can still load it down to the bumpstops no matter what springs you have on it. It will just get to the bumpstops sooner with the lighter springs.
It's always a trade-off. The lighter springs will give a better ride, but they also have worst spring wrap. If you have a lift on this truck with blocks, then it get's even worse. Is this the truck with the 33's on it? If so, you will probably rub before you hit the bumpstops anyway unless you have a lift on it.
It's always a trade-off. The lighter springs will give a better ride, but they also have worst spring wrap. If you have a lift on this truck with blocks, then it get's even worse. Is this the truck with the 33's on it? If so, you will probably rub before you hit the bumpstops anyway unless you have a lift on it.
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