leaf spring advice

[barry G]

I have an older 96 gmc all squared away, it now actually uses rear suspension.

I have decided one of the triggers to the tail of the dragon was the leaf springs all along.

 

I know every machine is different, and there used to be some knowledgeable replies.

 

I'll sum up what I have done, and maybe someone can guess..

 

gmc half ton v8, xcab 5 speed factory build, extra spline count on the transfer (matches 3/4 ton).

All cross sills double over factory strength

bed is rhino lined, further adding to perfect steel.

 

all cab mounts polyurethane.

sway bar end links, one of which was stretched a half inch without breaking..

truck is completely worthless on p-rated tires.

Front end is spectacular... in fact it is amazing. Just right.

not sure of GM's goal with this one, something sporty flexing back end or what.. really silly.

 

Without becoming a 3/4 ton, any advice or companies brands I can check out?

[Spurshot]

I'm not sure what you're goal is, but it isn't important. The important thing is that someone that is providing the springs selects the spring rates correctly for what you want.

 

I'd recommend you call a company like Alcan, Deaver, Carrier Spring, Off Road Design, etc., and tell them what you're trying to achieve.

[barry G]

I'm not sure what you're goal is, but it isn't important. The important thing is that someone that is providing the springs selects the spring rates correctly for what you want.

 

I'd recommend you call a company like Alcan, Deaver, Carrier Spring, Off Road Design, etc., and tell them what you're trying to achieve.

 

hey thanks for quick reply.

Found a website, and it revealed I have the smallest available version on my mixed breed half ton.

It was facts that went with the sale as well.. it would have been easier to make this a 3/4 ton upon the order almost 20 years ago.

long strange path it left...all factory.

Not sure why the tiny springs on the heavy weight. They have oxide marks on every leaf front and back of the stack, that is how active they are. No offroad.

this truck broke all cross sills, a tire hanger, front sway, 6 cab mounts..and they kept driving with a perfect dealer record. They stopped servicing when they realized the steel.

 

 

the first upgrade is 700 pounds of strength gained...yet still a half ton. that sure fits a sweet spot to me, I am the welder of my truck...felt the steel out, densifying etc.

 

the front on the other hand is truly colossal. Monolithic content.. a most bizarre combo I have purchased.

maintaining flex, came up with a choice already.

not even expensive.

 

if someone could tell me how to know what the weight of front torsion is, or maybe by hub sizing or something... seems too big to be half ton.