New Coils?
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Joined: Feb 2004
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New Coils?
I'm seeing some sagging on the driver's side front of my '66 f250. Thinking about replacing the front coils but have found HD's and variable rate as replacements. Anybody have pro's/con's on the two types? Wouldn't mind having a bit more lift, but don't want to stiffen the ride much either. Thanks for the help.
Elder User
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 909
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From: San Luis Obispo, CA
The variable rate springs cured bias-ply tire wear pattern problems when they came out decades back. I don't know if there is a problem with radials. My '65 F-100 had load range E radial tires and original springs and I had no problems. Ditto my '68 F-350. (I am assuming you are 4x2.)
Changing ride height is an issue with twin I-beams - higher than stock height will give you too much positive camber. I think you will find that the HD springs are designed to maintain the correct ride height with a vehicle that is always loaded. When not loaded, you will have too much camber (tires will wear on the outside) and a harsh, choppy ride.
Given the choice, I would choose the variable rate springs. They have less problems with resonances on concrete roads that have a regular pattern that can "excite" these resonances, giving vibration problems & tire wear.
Changing ride height is an issue with twin I-beams - higher than stock height will give you too much positive camber. I think you will find that the HD springs are designed to maintain the correct ride height with a vehicle that is always loaded. When not loaded, you will have too much camber (tires will wear on the outside) and a harsh, choppy ride.
Given the choice, I would choose the variable rate springs. They have less problems with resonances on concrete roads that have a regular pattern that can "excite" these resonances, giving vibration problems & tire wear.
Last edited by acheda; Apr 4, 2007 at 08:47 AM. Reason: add info
