On my '78 F-100 the previous owner replaced the
original front coil springs with a set of 4x4 coil
springs. They make the front of the truck set to high so
I would like to put a set of the
original ones back on. I was told there was some
kind of clip
that you could attach to the springs that
would take sone of the
height off the set I have on now rather then putting on
new coil springs. Also if that doesn't work how can I tell
if a used set of springs are worn out? Thanks ..

Bob

 

Don't mess with clips and spacers. You can get a new set of springs at an auto supply store or there are junkyards, but you can never tell the condition of the springs. When you lift up the front with a set of springs it wipes out the caster and camber settings for your front end.

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I had a mechanic tell me that the best way to clear up the front end alignment (apart from new king pins and axle pivot bushings) was to replace the coil springs, especially if they are high mileage. My local auto parts store priced them at $80 for the pair. I would stay away from the junkyard for springs, as you don't know how much they will sag. Good luck !:-)

 

One of the guys here just put a new set of Eaton springs on his truck. I belive it was laptopgeek(?). Maybe he will chime in... They were not very expensive, and a great alternitive to stock.

 

All,
There is nothing wrong with stock coil springs. There are a half dozen to chose from for any given year.
You will have to get it aligned after replacement.
Go to the store, spend your $80, bolt them on, get it aligned, and be done with it.
KingFisher

 

Check out my gallery, I just installed new springs in my truck, but to raise instead of lower, but I think that it pretty much restored the ride height to factory, I paid $85 for new coils.