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Replacing Springs? There are many reasons to consider replacing a set of leaf springs. Let’s look at some of the common problems. |
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Sagging Springs Many van owners choose to have springs re-arched when they become weak and sag. It lasts for awhile, but eventually they will sag back to their original dilapidated state and then some, because you are heating and reshaping tired fatigued spring steel. If you install a thick add-a-leaf to lift the van up, you will have a stiff ride. Check the spring eyes and bushings, the spring bolt may have worn through them, which can drop the van an inch or so. Also check the center of each leaf between the u-bolts. You may see a leaf or two with a crack in line with the spring center bolt. If you decide to replace a cracked leaf, do the identical leaf on the opposite leaf spring or you may come out lop sided. |
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Leaf spring noise Do you hear a popping sound coming from the front suspension when you are turning? It’s a common complaint for vans equipped with front leaf springs. The reason is quite simple and the problem has been going on since the days of the stagecoach and buckboard wagons. Leaf springs, by design, want to fan out while under pressure. Most springs have “U” shaped clamps that fit tight around the spring pack several inches inboard of the spring eyes, Some of these clamps don’t completely wrap around the spring pack, but are straight on the sides with a tube and bolt suspended a couple of inches above the top of the main spring. This allows the spring to have up and down movement, while keeping the spring pack from fanning out. Many newer trucks have plastic pads on the tip of each leaf and rubber between the “U” clamps and the spring, all in the attempt eliminate noise. The noise is caused by a leaf that slips back and forth out of the pack, hitting the “U” clamp. To check it out for yourself, slowly travel in a tight circle while someone walks next to the van and you will see the offending leaf slipping out of the pack. |
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Questions on parts or need to place an order? Call Gordon @ 801-915-1402 anytime from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM mountain time. Monday-Saturday (Sunday is OK if you have no other time to call )
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