Spring Identification- Who has the best?

[Keith B.]

How can I tell what front springs are in my car? My ride height is way off compared to what the AIM has told me it to be. I have a spring that I thought was original but it simply is not right. It has 12 coils with tighter coils at the top I know that the 63s had 8 coils and that there were three other springs after. The STD suspension 327 had a 12 coil and so did the 396/427 have 12 coils. How can I tell if I have the right spring. If I need to replace what spring should I buy. Long Island I have heard has the best one but at a $150 price tag. My local shop has them for $69 but who knows if they will be right? Does anyone know who makes the springs for Long Island? Is the GM spring the correct spring that will give me the correct ride height?
Thanks
Keith

[Stephen L.]

Re: Spring Identification- Who has the best?

The number of coils, material characteristics, AND the diameter of the spring wire determine the spring rate. The $70/pr springs are typically "one size fits all". The more expensive springs ($70 ea) are more closely designed/rated to the original specs for a given car with particuliar options. Long Island springs will probably give you the correct ride height. Volunteer Vettes has a similiar spring available. Good luck.