Stock leaf spring replacement

Ok, so, I've done the usual "search" on this topic and can't seem to find a straight answer as to correct leaf count for a 74 CJ5. I want to retain the factory height and would like to know if I need 5's in the front, and 7's in the rear or 7's in the front and 9's in the rear? If someone could point to a source for stock springs it would be very much appreciated.

-Eric

 

The standard springs in '74 are 7 leaf front and 5 leaf rear. I think the factory heavy duty suspension option is 10 leaves, front and rear. The factory heavy duty suspension option is about a 1-2" lift, compared to the standard springs. I would not use the standard springs with a steel cab - too much body lean.

There was a zoo of different spring designs used over the Kaiser and AMC years, and I expect the aftermarket vendors don't have any better a notion than you or I do about how many leaves were used in each year. Plus the aftermarket spring makers build their springs to provide a specific function, and they won't necessarily be using the same number or thickness of leaves as the factory would.

I suggest you don't worry about whether you have the correct leaf count and instead buy aftermarket springs that will work for your application. Bob Supplee could maybe give you some advice about which springs to choose. His contact info is in the "where to buy parts" sticky thread at the top of the forum.

 

Thanks Tim! Very informative as usual. What springs would you suggest for use with the steel cab?

-Eric

 

Oh, I'm no expert. Supplee is ...

Maybe Rancho or BDS?

 

find a spring shop local and give em a call most "real" spring shops can make any thing you want they will know what to recommend hopefully...

 

BDS, the whole kit with shocks, u-bolts, and springs is very good. They also have the best waranty out there. I don't think there has been a "real" spring shop around here for about 50 years so that's not a viable option for most.

 

Quick question....how do you know when you springs are bad or need to be replaced, other than an obvious break?

 

gotta go to the big city then.....

 

Try these guys, shouldn't be that long of a trip for you.

Gitt's Spring Company
(866) 971-9616
3921 B St Nw, Auburn, WA 98001

www.gittspring.com