replacing leaf springs....

[Tim K]

My explorer has the infamous "drivers side rear sag" and I hate it. The torsion twist on the front passenger side doesn't help as it is already 1/2" lower. Besides, I don't want a band-aid I want a fix. The Ford dealer wanted me to pay to have him look at it and "take measurements" but screw them...if they made better springs none of us would have this problem! So I guess I would like to replace the springs soon (I figure I might as well replace them both right?)

Here are my questions:
(Keep in mind I am not interested in getting any lift...I would like to keep it stock height)

1) Could it be something else? (just replaced the shocks so I know its not them) I don't want to do all this and still lean over...

2) Where can I get replacements other than from the dealer who I am sure charges a fortune?

3) What can I expect to pay? (parts only)

Any other advice would be appreciated!

 

[Anime]

yeah

Just a "me too" here...I also want stock height..MAYBE 1" lift springs for the rear...anyone know of replacements?

 

[GJarrett]

What about putting an add-a-leaf on just the left leaf? Since it is leaning, then the left leaf must be weaker, so putting the addaleaf on may equalize the leafs (in both height and spring rate). I got one inch of lift from my add-a-leafs. If it lifts yours a little too much then you can use the extra pressure to equalize the front too and even out your passenger side front.

I have no idea if it would work - in theory it should - but for only $26 and less than an hour's work you can't go wrong trying it before shelling out big bucks for another fix.

 

[Tim K]

1 inch wouldn't kill me....

Does it make more sense to just replace both stock leaf springs altogether or is that going to cost me a small fortune?

Will "adding a leaf" to one side cause the truck to handle differently? Will the suspension be stiffer on that wheel?

where do I get an "add-a-leaf" for my 97 XLT 4dr?
$26 is a price I can afford....

Also, is it possible that adding a leaf to both sides will provide enough support to even them out or will it only raise the whole truck 1" and still lean to the left?

please keep talking...I am listening...

 

[GJarrett]

Re: 1 inch wouldn't kill me....

"Will "adding a leaf" to one side cause the truck to handle differently? Will the suspension be stiffer on that wheel?"

I'm not sure, but don't think so. That's why I said since your left must be weaker, then putting an addaleaf on that side may even up the spring rate too. Yours isn't even right now or you wouldn't be leaning.

"where do I get an "add-a-leaf" for my 97 XLT 4dr?
$26 is a price I can afford...."

Do a search for add-a-leaf and Summit, who has them for $26. I got 4Wheel Parts to match Summit's price. They are Explorer ProComp addaleafs. The search should give you the exact part number, or someone else here who has the number handy may answer this thread.

Good luck.