My 1968 3/4 ton has coils and no over-load springs. Can I purchase them anywhere and has anyone here added them before? Or am I wasting my time? This truck has a steel box in good shape, low geared and pulls great, so I figure that it could use the over-load springs, as the box really sinks with a load on it now. Any idear'z? Thanks
There was a factory option overload leaf spring that was made to work with the coil spring rear suspension. I might be able to get you some pics of what it looks like if the weather cooperates. Bob
Thanks Bob. Ive seen them over-load leaf springs on a half ton once. Its just a leaf that catches near the rearend when it gets over loaded. I was just wondering if there was some for sale for a remanufacture, etc? Easy bolt on stuff, I guess.?
Yep, they bolt on, shouldn't be too hard to find a set, they're pretty common. Here are some pics: Bob
my dad's 72 suburban 1/2 ton had the 1/2 leaf overload springs. the coils were seriously worn out so he put 3/4 ton coils on and even with our heavy trailer hitched up it had no sag and the overlaods never engaged. personally, i think upgrading the primary springs is a cleaner way to go on a vehicle that regularly carries a load. there was/is a 3/4 ton HD option coil spring for the rear of our trucks that i plan to put on the rear of my 72 burb 3/4 ton just for kicks even though i don't have any problem 'cause my original springs are still in good shape. if classic parts can't get them for you, they are available from lmc truck cheap. it pays to research and shop around. rear coil spring weight ratings: 1/2T: 1400 lbs 1/2 T HD & 3/4T: 2000 lbs 3/4T HD: 2750 lbs most parts places list the same spring for 1/2 and 3/4 ton trucks because the base 1/2 ton springs just plain.....well, you get the idea.....