What's the most that a stock model a rear suspension can be dropped. I don't want to have to cut the frame. Just get as much drop out of it with out cutting it up? Posted using the Full Custom H.A.M.B. App!
What's needed for this to be done? How much of a drop is it ? Posted using the Full Custom H.A.M.B. App!
I didn't modify the frame at all on my '31. I used a "T" rear spring and had a new main leaf made. It's reversed eye and 3 inches shorter (eye to eye). Rides nice and eliminates almost all the gap between the fender and a 7.00x16 firestone.
I bought my reverse main from modelasprings.com and built the pack myself. Be careful taking the spring apart. Its under tension. I suggest using a spring spreader to take it apart. Then installing the new main leaf by itself. And building the pack from there using all thread rod to center it and big c clamps to compress. Posted using the Full Custom H.A.M.B. App!
It sounds like this might be a first time with an A spring. First of all, you need a good spring spreader. Do not try to jerry rig something, you can get seriously injured. Don't ever try just knocking the shackles loose. Some also recommend leaving it in the frame until all the tension is removed, then lowering it out. This will retain the leaves in case there is a broken leaf (shrapnel) or broken center bolt. Then follow Hitchhiker's instructions.
As advised, a model a rear spring will literally take your head off if it has the chance- mucho tension.I think I had to open mine 5" or so to get the shackles back in.( done with the rear end out and a well made (bought)spreader). The reverse eye thing is a good question; step up to the plate, you who have done such a thing, and impart your words of wisdom. SAFETY FIRST.Good luck. Mike
How much would a reverse eye 5 leaf 38 in from eye drop it? Posted using the Full Custom H.A.M.B. App!
I tried using the stock model A spring by removing leafs but it just wouldn't drop. I didn't spend the money or time on a reverse eye because it looked like the problem was length of spring (eyes would be hitting perches before it was low enough). I talked to Chris (from Spokane...search him here on the HAMB) about how he got his coupe so low and he said T spring. I got one but still the same problem with length. I had a local spring shop bend me a new reverse eye main leaf 3 inches shorter than the stock T spring and its dang near perfect. I still have clearance (never had the banjo hit the crossmember) and it rides real nice. I just used 5 of the original T leafs to complete the pack. Like everyone says.....be careful with that compressed spring when you take it apart. Its like a loaded gun. I used C clamps to hold mine together until the initial tension was off. And definitely install the main leaf on the shackles first and the build the pack from there. Sent from my SCH-I535 using H.A.M.B. mobile app
I bought a new spring from Eaton Spring Co. It was about the same tension but dropped the car about 3" in front. All the brake stuff worked fine with it.
On my -31 coupe I used a Model A main leaf with reversed eyes from Vern Tardell ($110)+ 4 leafs, that dropped it 4", works fine, even with the kids in the rumble
i never install a spring packed, i dismantle it, install the main leaf. install the remaining leaves then slide it up in the crossmember. much easiser and safer if doen right. i have had 2 purchases spring spreaders fly apart, so i built my own, but i still prefer to unpack them first.
I always wrap the spring with chain before commencing any spreader operations to ***emble or dis***emble or install. Better safe than sorry, just one leaf spinning out can whack a knee, or other essential body part, to pieces.
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