? on that 7 leaf spring picture

[MarkM]

I have a follow-up question on JL66redcoupe's thread from a couple days ago about the 7 leaf spring. I posted it, but everyone probably thought the thread was wrapped up, so no answer.

A little explanation for a newbie, please. Looking at the picture John provided, the bottom of the spring looks flat - and it's clearly a new spring. Most of the C2 buying advice I've seen says that the spring should have some arc to it - and that if it is flat it's shot and would need to be replaced.

Would someone explain?

Thanks,
Mark

 

[JL66REDCPE]

You are correct -- the spring looks flat and typically that is the sign of a spring that needs to be replaced. Since this was JohnZ's picture, hopefully he will shed some light on this.

 

[JohnZ]

The angle of the photo makes the spring appear "flat", but it's not; the spec for both the 9-leaf and the 7-leaf spring is 3/8" camber (arch) at 1360 lbs. design load - this one measured 1/2". It's also worthy of note that the spring rate (deflection) of the 9-leaf spring at design load is 140 pounds per inch (at the end of the spring, not at the wheel), and the 7-leaf spring is much higher (330 pounds per inch), which is why the F-41 car has significantly more ride harshness and larger-diameter rear shocks.

 

[MarkM]

Thanks John,

Now I have a better idea of what to look for.

Mark