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changing leaf springs on a 66 cj

Discussion in 'Early CJ5 and CJ6 Tech' started by Submariner, Feb 17, 2012.

  1. Submariner

    Submariner New Member

    I am thinking that I might change the leaf springs on my 66 cj to the ones used on a 75 cj. I know htat the 75's are wider (2"), and I have to change hangers. I am going to hang 31" on the ole girl for tires and a small lift. I don't do any real heavy wheelin', getting to old for that stuff. but I am still going to restore this old "5" to good running condition.

    I guess the real question here is will I gain anything from doing this conversion such as a better city/trail ride. this rig will be my dialy driver, 40 miles round-trip threw the winter only. It has a 225 v-6.

    any thoughts out there.
     
    Submariner, Feb 17, 2012
    #1
  2. timgr

    timgr We stand on the shoulders of giants. 2022 Sponsor

    Last edited: Feb 17, 2012
    timgr, Feb 17, 2012
    #2
  3. WJReiss4

    WJReiss4 New Member

    Hello-

    I'm restoring a '65 and could use a set of OE springs.... any interest in selling your old ones?? (I am assuming they are still in good shape)

    Bill
     
    WJReiss4, Feb 21, 2012
    #3
  4. mortten

    mortten I can’t put my finger on it 2024 Sponsor 2023 Sponsor 2022 Sponsor

    You're never too old:p
     
    mortten, Feb 21, 2012
    #4
  5. Posimoto

    Posimoto Hopeless JEEP Addict

    :iagree:
     
    Posimoto, Feb 21, 2012
    #5
  6. jzeber

    jzeber Well-Known Member 2022 Sponsor

    x2
     
    jzeber, Feb 21, 2012
    #6
  7. lynn

    lynn Time machine / Early CJ5 HR Rep Staff Member

    Sub, I'd suggest going to an aftermarket replacement spring set. Skyjacker Softride provides about the best ride quality you'll get with stock-size replacement springs. These springs provide 2-2.5" lift over the factory spring height (May lift even more over tired sagging OEM springs). Combine these springs with some good rubber spring bushings (rubber will be softer, but will not last as long as poly. Poly is stiffer and a bit harsher) and a good set of shocks that are not too stiff (avoid Rancho 5000s, too stiff. You could consider Rancho 9000 adjustables).

    A set up like this will give you a ride that is about as good as you can get with stock-size springs. The good news is this set up will also allow you to go to a larger tire size and is robust enough for offroading adventures.

    The next step would be to change the spring mounts and go to Wrangler (YJ) springs, or Holbrook Long-Leafs.

    HTH !
     
    lynn, Feb 22, 2012
    #7
  8. AKCJ

    AKCJ Active Member

    What Lynn said.

    Also, radial tires can really help the ride. I've been very impressed with my radial TSL's and Skyjacker Softrides.
     
    AKCJ, Feb 22, 2012
    #8
  9. Submariner

    Submariner New Member

    OK, I had a guy stop by that knows what he is looking at, cause I don't have a clue. I have aftermarket springs on the back already. the ones on the front are worn out, so I will replace them.

    I am going to stay with the original mounts but put in some new bushing.

    I am sure that by the time I am done with the everything I will put some 31" radials on the ole gal. I really not going to get to crazy on wheeling this rig. I am running 3:73 gears in the diff's.
     
    Submariner, Mar 7, 2012
    #9
  10. lynn

    lynn Time machine / Early CJ5 HR Rep Staff Member

    The original spring mount bushings are a rubber cylinder with a steel inner sleeve AND a steel outer sleeve.

    This outer sleeve has to be removed before installing new bushings. It is usually rusted fast to the mount.

    These do not just tap out easily...

    I've had much success using a hacksaw to cut the outer steel sleeve after removing the rubber and inner sleeve:

    Disassemble the hacksaw blade from the saw frame. Put the blade through the sleeve. Reassemble the hacksaw blade to the frame.
    Use the hacksaw to carefully cut through the outer steel sleeve. Make two cuts, 1/4" apart. Remove hacksaw.
    Use screwdriver to peel out the sleeve.
    Clean up spring mount for insertion of new bushing.
    (Stock rubber type will probably have a new outer steel sleeve. Aftermarket polyurethane bushings will not have the outer steel sleeve, but cannot be installed with an old sleeve in place).

    HTH !!
     
    lynn, Mar 7, 2012
    #10