Which kind of leaf springs should I purchase?

[Kesp4.0]

I am looking at buying new leaf springs, but there are two different types that I'm seeing for sale. The first type has an arc of 4-13/16 inches and a 1,250 lbs capacity. The second has an arc of 6-1/2 inches and an 1,100 lbs capacity. I am not sure which one is to factory spec- will the one with a larger arc give me some lift in the back? Should I go for the one with a shorter arc and more capacity? I'm just not sure which one to buy.

My Explorer is completely stock, and I would like to keep it that way, but I wouldn't mind an extra inch of lift in the back

 

[BKennedy]

A link to the springs you are considering would help.

 

[Kesp4.0]

Here you go: http://www.truckspring.com/suspension-parts/replacment-leaf-springs.aspx?make=Ford&year=1993&model=Explorer

 

[BKennedy]

That is confusing. They have the same number of leafs per pack, but the overall thickness and arch is different. I am guessing they both end up with the same ride height, one is just a stiffer set than the other. Sorry, I thought I was going to be able to help. When all else fails, give the vendor a call and ask.

 

[Kesp4.0]

Thanks, and yeah it is confusing. Doesn't make any sense to me, and it looks like not too many here have purchased stock size leaf springs lately. Guess I will try to hit up the company

 

[FR-425]

The difference is two door, or four door.

That's why the 150Lb difference in the load rating.

Depending on what's available in your area you can have your original springs "re-arched". Cost is about $90 per pair.

Here in Phoenix I go to Dunbar. I think Dunbar is also in the LA area.

 

[BKennedy]

I thought about 2 door or 4 door, but I thought the 2 doors had that crappy mono-leaf?? Maybe that was only on certain versions.

I usually hit the junk yards when I need new leafs. Usually about $50 a set.

 

[Kesp4.0]

The difference is two door, or four door.

That's why the 150Lb difference in the load rating.

Depending on what's available in your area you can have your original springs "re-arched". Cost is about $90 per pair.

Here in Phoenix I go to Dunbar. I think Dunbar is also in the LA area.

Thanks, that makes more sense now that I look at it. I just checked again based off of my VIN and it has mine listed as the first set, with the 4 13/16 inch arch and 1,250 lbs rating, but oddly enough on another website it's listed as "spring over axle" and on this website as just a regular set. Either way it says OEM on both sites so I believe I'll purchase that set

 

[FR-425]

Looks like this is the guy to talk to locally in LA.

http://www.atlassuspension.com/oem-leaf-springs.html

 

[Anime]

Replacement Leaf Springs for 1993 Ford Explorer Vehicles

Part#: 43-967
Vehicle Option: Fits 2 Wheel Drive; Fits 4 Wheel Drive
Installation Notes: Fits 4 door and 2 door sport models.

SRI Number:43-967
OEM Number:F1TZ5560A / F17A5560DC
Width:2-1/2 Inches
Length (A): 25-11/16 Inches
Length (B):30-15/16 Inches
Arc (C):4-13/16 Inches
Number of Leaves:4 (3/1)
Pack Thinkness (D):1-7/8 Inches
Capacity:1,250 lbs.
Front Bushing:Included
Rear Bushing:Included
Location:Rear


Part#: 43-1159
Installation Notes: 4 Door

SRI Number:43-1159
OEM Number:F57Z5560A / F57A5560FD
Width:2-1/2 Inches
Length (A): 25-11/16 Inches
Length (B):30-15/16 Inches
Arc (C):6-1/2 Inches
Number of Leaves:3/1
Pack Thinkness (D):1-3/4 Inches
Capacity:1,100 lbs.
Front Bushing:Included
Rear Bushing:Included
Location:Rear

Looks like the 43-967 springs are thicker.

In general, thicker springs means more capacity (and more lift), even with less arc.

Lots of lift kits have springs that are "shorter" but give more lift just because they are thicker/stiffer.

I'd guess the 43-967 springs are what you'd want for a 91-97 Explorer for either slightly more lift or the same height as stock depending on what they're going on. Obviously they'd give a tiny bit more lift on a 2-door Sport than a 4-door.

If you're putting these on a 2003, you may want to get the springs made for that vehicle rather than the 1993, since while the springs may be similar in width and length, Ford changed them many times over the years and you will get a better ride and overall a better spring if you get one tailor-made for a 2003 rather than to the specs of a 1993.

If you're having new springs made, you can always ask them about making the springs thicker or giving them slightly more arc if you want a small amount of lift built into the springs.


I'd say call or check out Atlas Spring in the link above, you can probably get what you want from them, and even drive to pick them up yourself rather than pay for shipping across the country.

 

[smegun]

does helwig helper springs work

typicall im like this guy an inch or two over taller in the rear would be nice i was looking for another inch taller rim and inch or two wider rims but i should think about adding somthing to the rear leafs

 

[Anime]

Helper springs only "help" when a heavy load is applied, like a trailer. This is good since they don't cause the vehicle to ride like a dump truck all the time when the extra capacity is only needed when carrying heavy loads.

You can use add-a-leafs to get a small lift in the rear, but they eventually sag like most other springs, sometimes even back to the original height.


Most who want an inch or two of lift in the rear go for longer shackles, or you can get the OME (Old Man Emu) or James Duff 2.5" lift springs for an Explorer.

 

[Kesp4.0]

I checked out the Atlas Spring link and they have a bunch of good stuff for various SUV's but not for 91-94 Explorer. Last night I ordered a pair of the 43-967's and some other stuff to go with them. Hopefully it will work out, and I will post how it goes.

Also, I know my info shows I have an 03 Explorer but I also have the 93 which is what I'm purchasing these for. I love my 03 but the first gen Explorers are my favorite.

Thanks again for all the help