Rear Leaf Spring on 77
Thread Starter
5th Gear
Joined: May 1999
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
From: Neville, Sk., Canada
Rear Leaf Spring on 77
My rear suspension is sagging and I am going to change the rear leaf spring. I have the oppurtunity to get a good buy on a 7 leaf.
Will I notice my difference between a 9 leaf and a 7 leaf. Thanks for any comments.
Will I notice my difference between a 9 leaf and a 7 leaf. Thanks for any comments.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 2,310
Likes: 1
Re: Rear Leaf Spring on 77 (Marty)
I replaced my 9 leaf with a 7 leaf about 7 years ago.
I don't recall noticing any difference, but I'm glad I went the the 7 leaf just because I think it's supposed to be the better handling spring.
If no one offers any info about composite springs and you haven't ruled that option out, you might want to search the archives or post a question about using a composite spring. My brother (and members here) have stated they really noticed a difference (most a positive difference) going from steel to composite.
Good Luck & please post what you decide.
I don't recall noticing any difference, but I'm glad I went the the 7 leaf just because I think it's supposed to be the better handling spring.
If no one offers any info about composite springs and you haven't ruled that option out, you might want to search the archives or post a question about using a composite spring. My brother (and members here) have stated they really noticed a difference (most a positive difference) going from steel to composite.
Good Luck & please post what you decide.
Burning Brakes
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 958
Likes: 0
From: Brisbane, Australia 1985 Coupe
Re: Rear Leaf Spring on 77 (Marty)
Huge difference because my 9 leaf was stuffed! Once the new spring settles the ride is good.
If you can afford the composite spring and new shocks to suit - go that way.
:cheers:
If you can afford the composite spring and new shocks to suit - go that way.
:cheers:
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2001
Posts: 5,943
Likes: 3
From: Wildwood IL
Re: Rear Leaf Spring on 77 (Marty)
When I purchased my car, her azz was dragging too. Being a low milage vehicle, (43K) I thought I'd try changing the flat squished down spring bushings first. For $30 or so, I installed poly bushings and viola!! that was the ticket. No more sag and the ride hight is perfect... even a little higher by an inch!!! Worth a try... cause you'll have to change the bushings anyway with a new spring. :cheers: :cheers: :cheers:
Thread Starter
5th Gear
Joined: May 1999
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
From: Neville, Sk., Canada
Re: Rear Leaf Spring on 77 (jerryp58)
Thanks for the comments. I have decided to go with the 7 leaf, hope to install on the weekend. I have no doubt that the
composite maybe the way to go. I understand that when you go that route the shocks should be changed also. I guess
that because of the extra total cost and the fact that leaf springs keep the car more orginal I am sticking with the 7
leaf for now. Regards Marty
composite maybe the way to go. I understand that when you go that route the shocks should be changed also. I guess
that because of the extra total cost and the fact that leaf springs keep the car more orginal I am sticking with the 7
leaf for now. Regards Marty
Melting Slicks
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 2,043
Likes: 1
From: Elkhorn WI
Re: Rear Leaf Spring on 77 (Marty)
I just went from a 9leaf to a 7....no regrets...while your in there get the new bushings and maybe a longer set of bolts for more adjustment.
I did and it worked great.
also....like mentioned above...if you go composite, get the shocks to match.
Either way...enjoy a new RIDE ! :cheers:
I did and it worked great.
also....like mentioned above...if you go composite, get the shocks to match.
Either way...enjoy a new RIDE ! :cheers:
