replacing rear spring
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Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 61
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From: Raleigh NC
replacing rear spring
now that i'm done with my front-end rebuild on my '73, it's now time to turn my attention to the rear end rebuild. i've gotten all of the parts figured out that i want to buy, except for the replacement for the rear spring. there's currently a 7-leaf back there.
my goals would be to lower the ride height at least 1.5 inches and also get a bit more firmer feel. the shocks will be kyb gas filled. i'll also be installing a 7/8" sway bar as well. having the ability to adjust the firmness and ride height would be a plus to me.
any recommendations regarding adjustable springs, composite springs, 7 leaf, 9 leaf, suppliers, etc. would be greatly appreciated.
my goals would be to lower the ride height at least 1.5 inches and also get a bit more firmer feel. the shocks will be kyb gas filled. i'll also be installing a 7/8" sway bar as well. having the ability to adjust the firmness and ride height would be a plus to me.
any recommendations regarding adjustable springs, composite springs, 7 leaf, 9 leaf, suppliers, etc. would be greatly appreciated.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 2,008
Likes: 38
From: Space Coast Gator Territory
There is nothing wrong with the steel spring that has been there since 79. That is all I'm going to say about that. The ride height is adjusted with the length of the end bolts. Longer bolts result in lower ride. To adjust ride firmness, buy gas adjustable shocks.
Thread Starter
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Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 61
Likes: 0
From: Raleigh NC
end bolts
ok, then i could go ahead with the rebuild using the components that i have purchased already (shocks, sway bar, bushings), get longer end bolts and see how the lower ride looks and feels without making mods to the leaf spring. i'll search the forum for "end bolts" to see where i might be able to get the longer end bolts. many thanks!!
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 1999
Posts: 3,030
Likes: 17
From: White Pine / Dandridge TN
You can get the bolts from Vette Brakes and Products or Van Steel. You can purchase either 8 or 10 inch bolts although 8 inch is more common.
There is always debate on the forum about fiberglass versus steel rear springs. You can perform a search of rear springs to find lots of info and opinions on both. I just completed a rear suspension rebuild and used a 7 leaf steel spring. If your spring still has some arch to it upon removal you should be ok to reuse it. If it is flat it needs to be re-arched or replaced. Also, you may want to replace the plastic liners between the leafs.
There is always debate on the forum about fiberglass versus steel rear springs. You can perform a search of rear springs to find lots of info and opinions on both. I just completed a rear suspension rebuild and used a 7 leaf steel spring. If your spring still has some arch to it upon removal you should be ok to reuse it. If it is flat it needs to be re-arched or replaced. Also, you may want to replace the plastic liners between the leafs.
Last edited by Frankenvette; Jan 10, 2006 at 08:44 AM.
Premium Supporting Vendor
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 4,312
Likes: 70
From: Clearwater FL
Rear fiberglass KYB GR-2 shocks are on national backorder until March. They got pushed back twice already. So if you go woth a glass spring, buy Bilsteins for it. If you go with a steel spring you'll be fine w/whatever shock you want.
Pro
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 642
Likes: 0
From: Baton Rouge LA
I just installed the VB&P monoleaf in the rear of my '69 and couldn't be happier. I did it along with a complete front end rebuild and Bilstein Sport shocks and the ride is great. I also left the spare tire carrier off and the car looks so cool with the monoleaf from the rear. Now I need to pull the nasty stock rear out and repaint it. 
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Heel & Toe
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 22
Likes: 0
From: Bath Maine
Rear spring replacement
When I rebuilt the rear suspension of my '73, I used a composite monoleaf, KYB gas shocks, and poly bushings wherever I could use them, including the rear stabilzer. I am very pleased with the control in the corners and the ride overall. I believe there is a noticeable ride difference between the composite monoleaf and the steel, but as with everything else, it's owner preference that prevails after all the opinions are aired.
Good luck.
Al
Good luck.
Al