Leaf Springs?!?!?!
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
From: CALIFORNIA
Leaf Springs?!?!?!
No one ever talks about leaf springs,
I need a pair of rear leaf springs for my 65 1/2 ton short bed and everyone wants an arm and leg for a new pair, One place actually wanted 450, PSHT!
I better get a ******* with dos springs!
Does anyone know If I can use springs off a later year truck
I need a pair of rear leaf springs for my 65 1/2 ton short bed and everyone wants an arm and leg for a new pair, One place actually wanted 450, PSHT! I better get a ******* with dos springs! Does anyone know If I can use springs off a later year truck
Postmaster
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 2,557
Likes: 2
From: Texas
What's wrong with yours? Are they broken or just sagging?
Springs are a big package to purchase, but a decent set may be had from the salvage yard if you can find them. Most folks seem to recommend Eaton Detroit Springs since they are a reputable company.
Springs are a big package to purchase, but a decent set may be had from the salvage yard if you can find them. Most folks seem to recommend Eaton Detroit Springs since they are a reputable company.
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
From: CALIFORNIA
They squeek, sag, you name they got it, I'm gonna try a used pair in good condition thats why I wanted to know if they interchange with a later year... If so, That would widen my choices, Not to many 65-66 half tons here...
Laughing Gas
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 1,218
Likes: 2
From: Parkville, MO (KC)
You might want to get a set of helper springs from JC Whitney or whereever. They are pretty cheap and will address the sag. As to the squeeking -- that is usually the spring shackles, as far as I know. And you'll need new ones with any new or used springs that you swap anyhow. So perhaps replace the shackles, drop in a set of helpers and see how that goes.
The helpers will likely stiffen your ride some (as opposed to overload springs, which only take effect when the main set have sagged a few inches.) For the best "like new" ride I suspect the only option is to get new springs. You'll have a hard time judging the quality of a junkyard set, so you may not have anything better than your old ones. If the old ones literally have busted leaves, then of course even a junkyeard set of unknow quality will be better. I *think* that the springs are going to work from trucks up to 72, as that was the year they widened the rear end and moved the shackles. It is possible that later years work, but I have no idea and I rather doubt it.
The helpers will likely stiffen your ride some (as opposed to overload springs, which only take effect when the main set have sagged a few inches.) For the best "like new" ride I suspect the only option is to get new springs. You'll have a hard time judging the quality of a junkyard set, so you may not have anything better than your old ones. If the old ones literally have busted leaves, then of course even a junkyeard set of unknow quality will be better. I *think* that the springs are going to work from trucks up to 72, as that was the year they widened the rear end and moved the shackles. It is possible that later years work, but I have no idea and I rather doubt it.
Lead Driver
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 6,305
Likes: 18
From: Boulder Creek, Ca
As best as i can determine from the Hollander interchange book the rear leaf springs for 65/66 4X2 are interchangeable. The 65/66 is also interchangeable with 68 thru 72 4X2 with the short wheel base, 115". May help to narrow field, but if decide to purchase make sure and confirm. Also how are your shocks.
good luck,
dave
good luck,
dave
Last edited by daveengelson; Jun 13, 2004 at 10:18 AM.
New User
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 21
Likes: 0
From: Pretoria, South Africa
I took my truck to a commercial spring shop and had them reset the leaf springs. They start sagging because they loose their temper. They also replaced the bushings. The sqeaking is exagerated by the fact that there is more movement up and down because of the springs that are softer. Total cost converted to US dollars $25-00!
