Leaf Spring Maintenance?
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Leaf Spring Maintenance?
Does anyone have any opinion about maintenace for leaf springs? I know that probably sounds odd but having had some breakage concerns on my rear leafs for a 99 PSD, I am just curious if anyone out there greases or applies any kind of lubricant or anything that can extend life or even maybe deter salt erosion or other wear problems? Any input appreciated. I would assume there is no dealer suggested service. I am replacing some now and have the opportunity to deal with them off the truck if there's anything that would be easier to do before installation.
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Yeah - I appreciate the note about the power steering fluid. I have an older diesel (84) that seems to have nicely lubricated leafs as well from leaking fluids.
350Z - do you notice any effect from the oil that may help? I would think as a rust inhibitor that might not be a bad idea. I don't think dust or sludge hurts any metal component unless it's corosive. I think big thing here is I am trying to avoid another fracture or wear problem because I leave them dry and in Ohio we get pretty good road salt in the winters.
350Z - do you notice any effect from the oil that may help? I would think as a rust inhibitor that might not be a bad idea. I don't think dust or sludge hurts any metal component unless it's corosive. I think big thing here is I am trying to avoid another fracture or wear problem because I leave them dry and in Ohio we get pretty good road salt in the winters.
Post Fiend
Joined: Jul 2003
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From: Spokane, WA
It's really not the best idea to use oil lubes on leaf springs (I've done this and had problems with it). The oil collects dust and small gravel and then you've got all that junk grinding between the leaves. Realistically they shouldn't require any mantainance anyway but if you get a squeak there are several dry lubricants that can be used. Check this thread in the suspension forum for a good recommendation: https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/s...d.php?t=305075
Lead Driver
Joined: Jan 2002
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From: Itinerant
when replacing the leafs, I believe it is easier just to replace both sides with new ones(up grade from 3/4 ton to 1 ton leafs)if you broke 1 what says the others aren't weak also. Plus your already takeing it all apart.But then I keep these trucks for life with well over 200K miles.
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From: latrobe pa
Dieseldude888, I used oil on the springs on my 78 trk,have not put oil on new trk, on the old trk it didnt have the pads in between the leaves ,but I also would power wash in between the leaves every now and then and respray them,but like I said it would attract dust/dirt , Craig.
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Guys - I think I'm sold - I don't have the advantage of using new springs or upgrading now - I found a set of replacements off a front end wreck 2001. I did buy the set though to replace the pair. I am going to try some of the dry lubricants and since the springs are off the truck - I'll just separate them now, give em a good powerwash, and then shoot em between the leaves with the dry lube recommended as per the link above. All good advice I think though - thanks. Ford owners are the salt of the earth!
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