Re-using C-2 coil and leaf springs

[Fred M.]

I'm currently involved in a frame-off restoration on a '64 roadster and wondering how satisfied others may be that restored and utilized there original coil and leaf springs. Although the leaf springs have some rust pitting they cleaned up well; both coil springs only have surface rust but both had two spring spacers in each. Also wondering if a 1" coil spring booster (on the end) may also be necessary.

Thanks in advance

[Rich Puleo]

Re: Re-using C-2 coil and leaf springs

Ditch the coil springs if they had spacers. After the resto is complete & the owner uses the car enough for the springs to settle in more, you'll probably regret using the original coils. The repro's work well.
The leaf springs should be fine as long as they're not cracked. If the arch is gone, get them rearced, but I've never had that problem.
Rich

[Craig S.]

Re: Re-using C-2 coil and leaf springs

Fred - I would suggest the approach Gary Beaupre mentions in a series of restorer articles a year or so ago. Replace the main leaf, and use the original upper leaves. This will give you an original spring installation with good performance characteristics........Craig

[Duke W.]

Re: Re-using C-2 coil and leaf springs

Compare the coil spring wire diameter, free length, and number of coils with the AMA specs. If they are reasonably in spec and only have surfaces rust, they are reusable. Same with the rear leaf spring. If only minor surface rust, new liners should bring back OE performance.

Springs rarely "wear out". What ultimately kills them is loss of material from corrosion that weakens them and can ultimately cause them to break.

Though the springs had no coating from the plant, I recommend that they be cleaned up on the surface and painted with a rust preventative primer and top coat.

Duke