spring questions

I've got a 78 Cj5 that seems to have saggy springs...I think. I've had the CJ for about 3 months now and it's always been kind of mushy. It easily rocks side to side. At highway speeds it almost starts to get out of control (wobbly). The springs are almost flat. Are they supposed to be or should there be a pretty good arch in 'em. I know this is probably a stupid question but there it is. Could this be cured with the aftermarket add-a-leafs or should I just go ahead & buy new springs. If I have to get new ones I may as well do it with a lift also since I was going to get new shocks anyway.

 

If it is that tippy, it sound like time for some new ones. Mine are almost straight, stomp the gas and right rear takes a dive. On my list of things to do when it gets warm.

 

Exactly what mine does

 

not to highjack but... with a 2.5 inch spring lift does anything in the drivetrain, steering, tranny, of transfercase have to be adjusted?

 

Without sway bars my Jeep definately leans in corners even with new springs and bushings. But the articulation off-road is worth having to be careful on-road.

 

If it's all floppy and wobbly feeling, it's probably time for shocks, maybe spring bushings. Springs are supposed to feel that way. Weak springs will sit low, but they'll still bounce.

 

I'm leaning toward the Black Diamond add-a-leaf all the way around. Comes complete w/ 4 shocks, leaf, and new spring wraps & studs. Supposed to add 1 1/2 - 2" of lift. Fairly inexpensive at $250. Any opinions on this set-up. I've heard both good and bad about Black Diamond.:?

 

I can relate to the springs in the late model 5s. At 30 years old they were weak at best. Add in some worn out shocks and the ride is probably pretty scary. Remove the sway bar and put some lift shackles on there and you have what I started with when I got Black jeep.

I agree with the others. If your going to spend that kind of cash hold out until you can afford replacement springs. Your close to the cost and they would make a huge different both in looks, ride, and capability. Good shocks will certainly improve the mush feeling going down the road.

I used BDS springs on my 77/79 jeep. With the 2.5 lift it was only a matter of installing the parts. I didn't use a drop pitman arm, I didn't change the transmission mount, I didn't change the drive shafts. It was a bolt on and go. Be prepared though to have to cut everything out. With the 2.5 lift I fit a 33X12.5 super swamper with minimal rub. I do however have wide track axles so that makes a little difference.

 

what shocks do you guys recommend that don't cost a fortune. I need some new shocks too. Can't afford Bilstiens or MX-6's, would the ProComp ES3000's be okay for being solid but not too stiff? or something else?