73-87chevytrucks.com
73-87 Chevy _ GMC Trucks => Brakes, Frame, Steering & Suspension => Topic started by: Rapid Roy on December 31, 2018, 03:51:59 pm
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Wanting to replace my rear leaf springs. Currently have a 8 (7+1) pack. SPID code is G50-Heavy-duty rear springs. They are OEM. I am thinking that this maybe later on became known as a Heavy Half, not for sure. Looking to get standard stock springs. Not sure if it is a 4 (3+1) or 5 (4+1) pack for standard 1/2 ton LWB. Would like information for this. Want to get new springs.
Also, if any DFW members can recommend a supplier would be great.
Thanks
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Changing the number of leafs will change the ride height so reducing the spring pack will lower the rear. Most of my C10's I've owned came with 8 + overload spring
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Have thought about that. Wanting a more comfortable ride. Rear is already higher than the front. Not a lot, but noticeable and ride is sort of rough or stiff.
So, if I were to remove a leaf or two, which ones should be removed?
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They're progressive so you would want to start by removing farthest away from the main leaf. Get good shocks
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So, which one is the main leaf? The one that has the eye for bushings and bolts?. Don't want to sound dumb, but I have never removed leafs before. All shocks were replaced by PO prior to my purchase in July 2015, the rear are Monroe Gas Magnum 34824. Do not how good they are.
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So, which one is the main leaf? The one that has the eye for bushings and bolts?. Don't want to sound dumb, but I have never removed leafs before.
Main is the one on top that all others are bolted to. My 1/2 ton C10 is the lowest GVW wussiest springs 1" rotors with standard brakes but it has the nicest ride of any trucks I have ever driven.
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Not concerned with hauling since I hardly ever haul anything with a lot of weight. Just want a nicer ride. If I remove some, how many would I start with removing?
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Not concerned with hauling since I hardly ever haul anything with a lot of weight. Just want a nicer ride. If I remove some, how many would I start with removing?
I will take a look at my C10 tomorrow and let you know what I see.
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As promised, I have the 4 3+1
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Thank you. If I went that pack size, it would probably be a drastic change. Of course I'm not experienced in changing them, so hard to make a decision on which way to go. It is not such an easy task to remove one or two just to see how it would work.
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If you just want to replace the complete spring, they are not really that expensive ($155-200 each side) from some of the vendors, and you can pick the GVW. However, shipping will add quite a bit to the price. Spring rate options for a half ton in '75 were 1290, 2600 and 3500 (listed as HD), so I expect there would be quite a difference in ride. I assume other years have similar choices.
I have also seen posts from folks who buy aftermarket springs that are listed as "easy-ride" or similar descriptions, and they seem to be happy with them.
Another suggestion is to move the mount and use 56" springs from the 1 ton trucks. The longer spring is supposed to flex and ride better, but I've never actually ridden in one to know the difference. It may also be difficult to find a low spring rate in the 56" length. However, with a search I found one vendor who sells 56" springs with a 1950 lb rating, so they are out there.
Bruce
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The Magnum shocks may be most of your problem.
I put them on front and back of my K10, horrible ride, very stiff.
I spoke to a guy doing a frame off, he had Rancho 9000 series, and they're adjustable.
Kind of spendy last time I priced them, but look like a superior product. They'll be my next choice.