leaf-spring removal?

[jgrissom]

I have a '97 2500 and pull about 10,000 lb. tag-a-long trailer. I have noticed that my overload springs are resting on the stops. I didn't realize that our springs are that weak. How hard are the springs to remove? Their is a shop in town that will re-arch them to factory specs and will add an extra leaf for $120. Is that a good price or should I do something else? any advice accepted.

 

[B.G. Smith]

Springy springs

I doubt that you really need an extra leaf or re-arching. The springs are set up so you will have a semi decent ride uhnloaded and when you put a load on the rear the big springs start carrying the load. bg

 

[RedRamer]

you probably also have weight distribution bars.

Once mine are set for towing, a lot of weight is taken off the rear end and helper springs and I sometimes wonder if I need them at all.

They are noisy when empty.

 

[rkressg]

$120 is not a bad price. To remove the rear leaf spring stack, you need to jack the rear of the truck up and allow the rear axle to float. You need to drop the rear axle off the spring stack (if you are good, you can balance the axle housing with out removal from the truck, but this can get in your way), unbolt center spring bolt, unbolt the shackles, and remove the springs. The springs are not heavy enough for these trucks. Be careful, make sure that the load is off the rear springs before you unbolt the shackles. If you add springs, you will need new U-Bolts and a new centering bolt. The entire operation is easier than you think, it just takes time. You just need some big jack stands and a good floor jack.

 

[Dane]

Why not add air bags? Ride will be better unloaded without the extra spring and with a load you can adjust how much extra spring you need by adjusting the air pressure in the bags?