Leaf Springs

Discussion in 'Technical' started by Crazy Larry, Feb 4, 2012.

  1. Crazy Larry

    Crazy Larry Member

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    If I wanted to remove a leaf from my 4-leaf rear springs to make them like the stock 3-leaf configuration, which leaf should I remove?
    The 4-leaf just rides too stiff for me.
     
  2. Acornridgeman

    Acornridgeman MCCI Wisconsin State Rep Moderator Supporting Member

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    Hi Larry,

    I have done this before with trucks. Start with removing the smallest one first. Then drive it around and see how you like it. If it is still too stiff, pull the next one and put the smallest one back and try it again. If that still is not enough to get it where you want, repeat pulling the 3rd leaf and put back the 2nd one again.
     
  3. mojo

    mojo "Everett"- Senior Citizen Supporting Member

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    I have the same issue w/ my 4 leafs - rides a little harsh. Have not got arnd to making any changes yet.
     
  4. Crazy Larry

    Crazy Larry Member

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    I was just wondering, since I got rid of my original springs (3-leaf) years ago, if someone could tell me which leaves to remove to make them identical to the stock springs.

    It's got to be either the shortest (is that the "overload"?), or the one right above it. I'm certain that the 2nd leaf would not be the one to remove. If I'm even saying this right -- I'm considering the top spring to be the "1st".
     
  5. 71gold

    71gold Frank Cooper Supporting Member

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    I think that most think the bottom leaf (short) to be 1st...I know I do...:yup:
     
  6. Craig Selvey

    Craig Selvey Indiana State Rep - MCCI

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    I guess it all depends on either:

    A. How it was assembled
    B. Which way you are looking at it

    :D
     
  7. 71gold

    71gold Frank Cooper Supporting Member

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    when I remove a leaf, I have the spring flipped up on the eyes....that makes the short leaf 1st...:yup:
     
  8. Craig Selvey

    Craig Selvey Indiana State Rep - MCCI

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    But when I install a set of leaf springs, I install the spring with the eyes first.

    :D
     
  9. mictn42

    mictn42 Member

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    Leaf Springs are a serious pain in my ride...lol I need to do some work on mine as well but I have to say when I look at them the bottom spring would be 1st
     
  10. CometGT1974

    CometGT1974 Gearhead

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    Back in the day, I just pulled the bottom two out and it rode much better.
     
  11. courier11sec

    courier11sec Member

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    I just take my one ton Cummins out for a ride empty. Then everything seems to ride nice.
    :rofl:
     
  12. Crazy Larry

    Crazy Larry Member

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    So with all the Maverick owners here, no one has a picture of the stock 3-leaf springs???
     
  13. Allen Small

    Allen Small Member

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    I have a set of old 3 leaf springs I can take a picture of tomorrow evening and post for you Tuesday if that will work for you. I pulled these off my 73 grabber and replaced them with new 4 leaf springs. The car sagged in the rear somewhat with the old 3 leaf springs on them.

    Allen Small
     
  14. Crazy Larry

    Crazy Larry Member

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    That would help a lot, and I'd really appreciate it.
     
  15. mercgt73

    mercgt73 Member Supporting Member

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    Here's a pic, not sure if it is close enough for you.
     

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