52 inch springs vs 56 inch springs

[Torque454]

I have a set of 8 leaf springs currently on my 79 chevy 1/2 ton pickup. They measure out to be the 56" springs.

I also have a set of 8 leaf springs from an 86 3/4 ton pickup that measure out to be the 52" springs. The holes are in the frame already for me to be able move the spring hangers around to allow use of the 52 inch springs.

I assume the 52" springs, since they are for a 3/4 ton, will hold weight better than my 56" springs, even tho they are both 8 leafs. Correct? Or should I just stick with what I have?

[Captkaos]

56" springs are HD springs.  If you are looking to hold more weight, you need to stay with what you have.

[Torque454]

So my 1/2 ton springs are heavier duty than my 3/4 ton springs? I'll check them again but im pretty sure its the 56s that are on the truck now and the 52's I have that I pulled from the 3/4 ton.

I don't really NEED the weight capacity... but i'd like to have it just in case. In fact I wish I could just use the 3/4 ton frame but I don't really have a way of swapping the body over. SO the 3/4 suspension and drive train are going under the 1/2 ton. Complete front end, 8 lugs, big brakes, big sway bar, 14 bolt full floating 4.10 rear end, 454 engine and 400 trans. (may get swapped for a built 700r4 for the low low 1st gear for good take off and overdrive for when i'm not towing)

[Captkaos]

Should be close to the same then.  If you put the 52's on, you just have to move the rear hanger forward.  If you are swapping it all might is well make it "all"

[Torque454]

Well looks like I have someone interested in buying the 52" springs from the 3/4 ton so I guess i'll be sticking with what i've got on the truck. They are pretty heavy springs tho, I remember my dad having an identical truck years ago with these heavy duty springs on it. He would cut firewood and stack it clear to the top of the cab and those springs would still hold it up. The main thing I am after is trailer towing power, which is what the 454, TH400 and 4.10 axle are for.

The sway bar from the 3/4 ton will be a nice addition also as will the brakes (all the way around including the front)

[Captkaos]

That is what I would do.  as far as trailering strength, the 56" should be the same as a 3/4T