73-87chevytrucks.com

73-87 Chevy _ GMC Trucks => Brakes, Frame, Steering & Suspension => Topic started by: SuperT on February 22, 2011, 12:33:03 pm

Title: 9/1 Leaf Spring - Ride Quality Question
Post by: SuperT on February 22, 2011, 12:33:03 pm: Hi,

I have a 1984 Chevy K30 DRW that I hope to convert to a utility body. It's in need of new rear springs and I was curious if anyone has any experience with the ride quality differences between 3950 lbs or 4650 lbs 9/1 springs.

I appreciate any opinions.

Thanks.
Title: Re: 9/1 Leaf Spring - Ride Quality Question
Post by: slammed79 on February 22, 2011, 01:28:57 pm: Welcome from Arizona. These trucks never rode too smooth from the factory, especially the 1 Tons. I'm sure someone will pipe up with preferences.
Title: Re: 9/1 Leaf Spring - Ride Quality Question
Post by: Captkaos on February 22, 2011, 06:47:26 pm: If you are adding a utility body I would size it accordingly. with extra weight you won't notice it.
Title: Re: 9/1 Leaf Spring - Ride Quality Question
Post by: VileZambonie on February 22, 2011, 06:57:09 pm: What axles are under it?
Title: Re: 9/1 Leaf Spring - Ride Quality Question
Post by: SuperT on February 22, 2011, 10:00:40 pm: Thank you for the replies. The axles are Dana 60 front and 14 Bolt rear. I'm not sure if it's possible, but with the heavy springs, if I hit a bump in the road I'd rather it didn't sound like a small explosion. I think the empty body is 1200-1300 pounds or so.
Title: Re: 9/1 Leaf Spring - Ride Quality Question
Post by: bake74 on February 23, 2011, 07:34:45 am: Like capt. said, you should estimate the weight of the utility body with what you are going to carry and talk to a local spring shop, they will calulate what springs to run and you wont even feel it with enough weight in back.
Title: Re: 9/1 Leaf Spring - Ride Quality Question
Post by: Donut on February 23, 2011, 07:36:48 am: How much of a load are the boxes hauling? I know they'll hold quite a bit and the weight adds up fast.

Maybe an overload spring setup?