'72 Leaf Spring Replacement

[Roger D.]

Folks:

During leaf spring removal yesterday, I found the bottom leaf broken right in half at the point where the retaining bolt goes through.

1. Is it possible to just replace that one leaf?
2. If not, can someone recommend a place for purchasing a new leaf spring that is NCRS correct?
3. If I replace the leaf spring, will that make the car sit too high in back if I don't also replace the front springs? (I assume the spring constant for a new leaf spring will be higher than the old).

Thanks in advance.

Roger

[Anthony S.]

Re: '72 Leaf Spring Replacement

Roger,

Here is my post from two years ago regarding the replacement of the spring on my 68;

https://www.forums.ncrs.org/showthread.php?87517-68-Leaf-Spring-Replacement

[Joe L.]

Re: '72 Leaf Spring Replacement

Folks:

During leaf spring removal yesterday, I found the bottom leaf broken right in half at the point where the retaining bolt goes through.

1. Is it possible to just replace that one leaf?
2. If not, can someone recommend a place for purchasing a new leaf spring that is NCRS correct?
3. If I replace the leaf spring, will that make the car sit too high in back if I don't also replace the front springs? (I assume the spring constant for a new leaf spring will be higher than the old).

Thanks in advance.

Roger

Roger-----


Yes, it's possible to replace just one leaf. The problem is that an exact replacement, single leaf is not available. However, if you can find a used spring, you should be able to salvage the needed leaf. Clean it up, clean up the leaves from the original spring, coat the leaves, install new liners and you should have a good rebuilt spring.

[Gary B.]

Re: '72 Leaf Spring Replacement

Roger,

While Joe is correct about there not being a replacement leaf that is 100% correct, I think you'll find that a main leaf from Eaton Detroit Spring will be so close that no one will know the difference. Whether Eaton will sell you just the main leaf is a question you'll have to ask them.

Gary

[Edward J.]

Re: '72 Leaf Spring Replacement

Roger, I would look to see if you have a local spring shop it might be possible that the maybe be able to make a leaf for you, the only thing is the edges of the main leaf may need to cut on a angle to match the OEM spring.

[Tom L.]

Re: '72 Leaf Spring Replacement

Hey Roger, I may be able to help. My '72 spring had a broken leaf too, the sixth I think. Anyway, I bought an original, restored it, put in the car and stored the remains of the original. The bottom leaf was OK. If you want it let me know, I'd be glad to just send it to you. Let me know. Have fun!!

[Roger D.]

Re: '72 Leaf Spring Replacement

Thanks everyone for your suggestions. Anthony, thanks for posting that link. I ran across that one a couple of days ago.

I may have more specific questions as I get further into the restore. I'm going to check with Lynn on his offer of the bottom spring from his old set.

Roger

[Roger D.]

Re: '72 Leaf Spring Replacement

Hey Roger, I may be able to help. My '72 spring had a broken leaf too, the sixth I think. Anyway, I bought an original, restored it, put in the car and stored the remains of the original. The bottom leaf was OK. If you want it let me know, I'd be glad to just send it to you. Let me know. Have fun!!

Hello Lynn, I sent you a PM.