CJ springs

I want to upgrade the springs on my 56 CJ5. Is it possible to install 76 or newer springs on my frame? Thanks.

 

Sure can, but you have to use the mounts for the year spring and they also will have to be moved because the newer springs are longer.

 

Adam, Before I do my spring conversion, should I consider boxing my frame? My CJ5 has a 327 Chevy that I amplanning on rebuilding and reinstalling. Thanks.

 

You mean this one, Sparky?

 

If your really going to wheel it I'd say box the frame now rather than later they all crack. If this Jeep has really been used the frame may aready be cracked anyway. Just my 2 cents

 

I would say yes box the frame, I have never done it but it makes sense. The only catch is you will loose what the frame was designed for, flex. To make up for the lack of flex you would be doing the YJ spring thing not to mention all the brackets and linkage you would have to reconfigure, by that time you might as well get some 2x4 tubing and make new rails and transfer your crossmembers to the new rails.
I am in the middle of a frame repair/strengthening project as I write this. I am not boxing the whole frame due to the lack of time and the fact that the frame was designed to flex (just like the tractor trailers you see cruising down the highway). My plan of attack is to fish plate each suspension point and shock mount point with an elongated oval welded to the outside (after I have V-notched and welded and straightened all my areas of cracking) and a support welded to the inside the same length at the spring mounts. My theory is that boxing will just move the potential crack down the line to the next weakest spot. So I add "supports" on the inside to help distribute the stress at "high stress" areas.
Chances are your frame is cracked the cracks start at all suspension points and shock mounts. My Dad rolls his eyes when I tell him I found more cracks, he wont let me under his 55.

I'll let you know how it goes after some real field testing.