[hairytaco]

Hey gang, I was just thinking of removing the bottom "helper leafs" from the leaf springs. The most weight I've had in the bed so far, is about 500 pounds, and the most I'm ever likely to have, is maybe 800.... I was just wondering if anyone else out there is running without those springs, and if I keep the load light, do you think I'll ruin the other leafs without them? The reason I was thinking of removing them, is to take off about 20 pounds (guess) of "un-sprung" weight from the rear suspension... Also, without those 'helpers', I can install 1" lowering blocks to even-out the fender clearance, and still use the original (thicker, better quality) U-bolts....
<img src=http://www.duane.kennard.com/s-r.jpg>

 

[Miniac]

Re: S-Runner Handling....

If you don't plan on hauling a whole lot, you can keep the helper springs and remove the middle leaf. The helper springs will reduce axle wrap as opposed to running a mono leaf.
Removing the helper spring doesn't have anything to do with giving you more room for lowering your rear end because you're stacking blocks on top of the leafs, not under them. The only advantage is that the U-Bolts won't be hanging down quite as far.

 

[hairytaco]

Re: S-Runner Handling....

well, actually removing the helpers (bottom spring) would give me that much more thread on the stock U-bolts. So, instead of the helper, which is almost 1" thick, I can substitute a 1" block fitted between the leafs & axle, and still use the stock U-bolts that are thicker than some of the aftermarket ones. Not only would that lower the rear by 1" (I'm not a low-rider lover), but it would remove about 20 pounds of UN-SPRUNG weight, which greatly effects handling. My only worry with this plan, is that the leafs might not last as long if I over load the bed.

 

[Guest]

Re: S-Runner Handling....

unsprung weight?? isn't that the spring? seriously though, woldn't make much difference, and if you are concerned about u-bolt size and quality, possibly check out a machine shop or a fastener shop.