'59 cj5 suspension, tire questions

I planning on my jeep redo this fall and am research mode. The body is settling arround the frame due to rust and I'm sure the springs are sagging so I don't know what the original ride attitude is/was. My plan is to replace all springs and related hardware but not sure on original specs or a lift. Also, I have a set of original 16" truck rims and am looking for a nice looking, aggressive but not overly large tire. The plan is for it to look original even though it's not. The jeep won't see any serious wheeling but I want it to look right.

Otherwise the rest is original engine and drive train.

All that being said, what does the peanut gallery have to offer? Any thoughts on tire size and brand, lift or not, how much lift and parts sources would be appreciated.

thanks!

 

Thanks bkd.

I'd like the largest tire that will comfortably fit on an original
16" truck wheel without sacrificing safety and handling. Then there is how much height is needed for clearance. I like the proportions of Sammys jeep base on the pics in the flat fender V8 thread.

Also I've been looking online for suspension parts. My jeep has 7 leaf springs in the front and 9 leaf in the rear. I'm seeing some online with more leaves. Are they for more lift or more load capacity or both? Their descriptions can be limited.

thanks again.

 

I'm not a fan of the Rancho 1" springs-I had those on my Jeep & the ride was TERRIBLE-I switched to BDS springs & the ride and flex is better.

 

I didn't realize old springs could have that much sag. The smallest lift I've found so far is 2.5", I don't know if I want that much. Maybe an original height spring replacement and slightly longer shackles? I need to see how wide my rims are and what will fit them. Also I need to see how my new tub will sit on the frame.

Can anyone recomend an online source for suspension parts?

thanks again.

 

Yes, leaf springs sag. That's their primary fault. Most old Jeeps with original springs are down on the stops, or nearly so.

For your springs, I'd recommend that you call Bob Supplee. Lots of happy customers for Bob. He's listed in the parts sticky thread at the top of the forum.

No need to extend the shackles. Talk to Bob and ask about your options.

 

http://www.treadwright.com/

Is anyone familiar with Treadwright tires? I know they're retreads but they look cool and are cheap!

 

Very well regarded. Sizes are limited though.

http://www.ifsja.org/forums/vb/showthread.php?t=92367&highlight=treadwright

 

I run tredwright tires and I like them quite a bit. Someplace on the forum I posted ride-height measurements before and after replacing my springs with new stock. You could search for it if it helps.

Ken

 

Thanks, I'll do a search. Here are some examples of what I'm thinking...thanks to Uncle Bill and Willys.


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I am running treadwright tire for about 3 year now. And i am very happy with them. When i had them mounted the shop guy mounted 3 tires before he took a good long look and ask " are these recap?"

 

Kaiser Willys.com carry's all factory springs
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