Jump to content

leaf springs


Recommended Posts

Posted

I previously had a thread about adding 2 add a leafs.. Not sure im going that route but my question is about adding stock leafs to the oem leaf pack.. I got a set of rear springs from a 2500hd at the scrap yard, So id like to just add the springs to the pack.. Or in other words make two leaf packs into one..Ill make my own center pin out of 3/8 threaded rod. And probably make my own straps that go around the leafs near the shackles, The bottom overload spring should stay single..correct? I didnt think you would want two of the thick overload leafs together or maybe that would really help with strength and support. Just looking for some input, The last time i did an add a leaf was on an 03 or 04 f-250 and it was fairly easy, Im just not sure if i should add a long and a short add a leaf also while i have it apart.. If i add 3 leafs to the oem pack of 4 i should definitly pick up some payload capacity. Then i can always add the timbrens and/or airbags to make the ride nicer while its loaded.. Again just looking for input from guys who have done there own springs.. Ive seen alot of customleaf springs that were over kill but im thinking if i have 7-9 leafs total together i should defintly be able to hold more weight in the bed safely without stressing the rear suspension and pick up 1-2" in the process..1 more stupid question..When you add a block to the rear especially 3" or bigger you need to go bigger with the shocks, Will i be in the same boat adding leaf springs?

Posted

Dude, you just need look for a good used Kodiak. That should have all the capacity you will ever need. :thumbs:

Posted

http://i1013.photobucket.com/albums/af252/cozwurth/1968%20Rancho%20El%20Rae/DSC00512.jpg'>http://i1013.photobucket.com/albums/af252/cozwurth/1968%20Rancho%20El%20Rae/DSC00512.jpg'>http://i1013.photobucket.com/albums/af252/cozwurth/1968%20Rancho%20El%20Rae/DSC00512.jpg'>http://i1013.photobucket.com/albums/af252/cozwurth/1968%20Rancho%20El%20Rae/DSC00512.jpg'>http://i1013.photobucket.com/albums/af252/cozwurth/1968%20Rancho%20El%20Rae/DSC00512.jpg'>http://i1013.photobucket.com/albums/af252/cozwurth/1968%20Rancho%20El%20Rae/DSC00512.jpg'>http://i1013.photobucket.com/albums/af252/cozwurth/1968%20Rancho%20El%20Rae/DSC00512.jpg'>http://i1013.photobucket.com/albums/af252/cozwurth/1968%20Rancho%20El%20Rae/DSC00512.jpg'>http://i1013.photobucket.com/albums/af252/cozwurth/1968%20Rancho%20El%20Rae/DSC00512.jpg'>http://i1013.photobucket.com/albums/af252/cozwurth/1968%20Rancho%20El%20Rae/DSC00512.jpg'>http://i1013.photobucket.com/albums/af252/cozwurth/1968%20Rancho%20El%20Rae/DSC00512.jpg'>http://i1013.photobucket.com/albums/af252/cozwurth/1968%20Rancho%20El%20Rae/DSC00512.jpg'>http://i1013.photobucket.com/albums/af252/cozwurth/1968%20Rancho%20El%20Rae/DSC00512.jpg'>http://i1013.photobucket.com/albums/af252/cozwurth/1968%20Rancho%20El%20Rae/DSC00512.jpg'>http://i1013.photobucket.com/albums/af252/cozwurth/1968%20Rancho%20El%20Rae/DSC00512.jpg'>http://i1013.photobucket.com/albums/af252/cozwurth/1968%20Rancho%20El%20Rae/DSC00512.jpg

 

http://i1013.photobucket.com/albums/af252/cozwurth/1968%20Rancho%20El%20Rae/DSC00512.jpg

Posted

Ha.. I dont need a kodiak, All Im talking about is adding a couple springs etc.. So the springs arent stressing when im really loaded.

Posted

You can add springs, 2 at most to each. The center pin should not be threaded rod. Use only a center bolt. Most spring shops have them in stock, make sure you get the right u-bolts. All this hardware is what holds the axle under your truck. Re-torque the u-bolts after 100 miles.

Posted

Are the center bolts hardened or special grade 8? I going to use new u bolts

 

no spring shops were im at..

Posted

Ha.. I dont need a kodiak, All Im talking about is adding a couple springs etc.. So the springs arent stressing when im really loaded.

 

 

Few people actally NEED one, but they are cool as heck.

 

I wonder if you could transplant the spring pack from one of those to your truck. That should give you allthe spring you need.

 

Just a thought.

Posted

Yea that would work.. I just figured one add a leaf and two of the stock leafs all together would be nice..

Posted

I think there are a couple of questions that need answers-

 

What is the truck's GVWR?

What is the load the rear axle is rated to carry from the manufacturer?

 

Will you be under these weights with what you intend to do? There is nothing LEGALLY you can do to make your payload more than what is on the door sticker.

 

There is more to hauling than adding springs, shocks, etc.

Posted

Yea that would work.. I just figured one add a leaf and two of the stock leafs all together would be nice..

 

 

I know. Im just bustin your chops a little. Its all good. I definately get what you are trying to do. I did the same thing on mine to an extent, but didnt take it that far since mine is just a 1500.

Posted

It looks good, I just have to get a good strong bolt for the center, And im working on making some straps for near each end. I have a total of 7 then the big bottom spring.. so i almost doubled the total spring package now i should be able to hold the bed full of firewod without stressing anymore.. I also dont think the ride will be affected because theres not alot of pressure or tension...In other words using the factory springs vs sqeezing an add a leaf or stronger arched spring in the pack it should be good.

Posted

How much weight capacity do you think i added adding 3 oem leafs to the 4 leaf pack?

Posted

I'm not sure about actual weight but we added new springs inside the old pack on the work truck and it helped out a lot. It only rides on the overload springs now when it has over 1500 pounds on it. I know guys with old 1/2 ton chevys that load the bed full of firewood on stock springs and just go :driving:

Posted

Gotcha.. I have a bunch of trees laying that i can load up Im just waiting for a day above 30 to swap them.

Archived

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

×
×
  • Create New...