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Old Dec 28, 2008 | 09:17 AM
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Front Spring Confusion

I have after market front coil springs from Valley Spring Works that were designed to level the truck. After 8+ years, the springs have lost some height and not held up well as far as keeping the truck level.

Here's my thought process:

1. I am considering just getting the 2" spacer's that are placed under the coil springs to bring the truck back to level.

2. I may get replacement stock coil springs and put the spacer in at the same time so as to make the truck level again and get rid of the weak springs that are there now.

3. Go with a heavier stock spring. In this thread: https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/7...l-springs.html some guys mentioned how the springs from F-450 or F-550 give a stiffer ride and raise the front about 3/4".

In trying to determine the best way to go, I have just become more confused regarding buying replacement springs.

In looking at salvaged '99 F-350 springs, I take they are the same as F-250 spings, but I don't see where they are giving consideration to diesel Vs. gas engines. I have to think the diesel springs are more stout due to the engine weight. Is that the case?

In listing the '99 springs they are also listing letter codes B-K. What do those letter designations mean?

With regard to option 3 listed above, does anyone know if the F-450 of F-550 springs would raise the front of my '99 truck 3/4" higher than stock as it did with the '06 in that thread? If so, what's the best way to raise the rear of the truck a corresponding 3/4"?

If it will all come together, I want to put in the heavier springs to raise the front 3/4" plus put on the 2" leveling blocks. Raise the rear 3/4" and then I would once again have a leveled truck that is also 3/4" higher over all.

Thanks for any insight you can offer.
 
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Old Dec 28, 2008 | 09:26 AM
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Your truck is 2wd right?
 
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Old Dec 29, 2008 | 12:38 AM
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Originally Posted by strokin_it7.3
Your truck is 2wd right?
Yeah, I know ya hate to assume, but his truck has to be because he's asking about coil springs.

Stewart
 
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Old Dec 29, 2008 | 12:58 AM
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Unless you ride around fully loaded all the time, I would be hesitant about putting beefier springs on. You may get a rougher ride than you'd like.
The blocks sound like a better option, if you are simply looking to level it out.
 
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Old Dec 29, 2008 | 01:57 AM
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That's what I did, leveling kit. Works fine, maybe a little to good. At first I thought the front end was to high but I've gotten used to it and it looks good.
 
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Old Dec 29, 2008 | 12:08 PM
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Yes, the truck is 2 wheel drive.

Maybe I'll dismiss option 3 and choose just between 1 & 2. I'd still like to know what those letter designations stand for. I guess that's the problem dealing with a computer menu instead of a live person.
 
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Old Dec 29, 2008 | 01:19 PM
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I'm looking to raise the front of mine too. My springs are weak and the suspension regularly hits the bumpstops.

I'll look into those springs you listed, but I'd also like to know about the different spring codes. Which is which, spring rate, etc...


How happy were you with those springs from Valley that you bought? What not go with another set of them since they lasted 8 years? These PSDs are heavy and I wouldn't expect front springs to last the life of the truck.
 
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Old Dec 29, 2008 | 02:06 PM
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I'm hesitant to go with another set from Valley Spring Works. I've never heard of anyone else having to replace coil springs on a truck barely 10 years old.

When the Valley Spring Work springs were new they leveled the truck. Now the front seems to be sagging 2+ inches.
 
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Old Dec 29, 2008 | 02:43 PM
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Gotcha. Mine sits about 1/2 to 3/4 lower than it should, plus they are weak and hitting the bumpstops. I put new shocks on there but the ride is still the same. I'm looking to see if I can get a set of F350 springs this week and install them.

I guess the F450 is a monobeam axle with leafs springs? Or does it still use coils?
 
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