Leaf Spring Questions

[Super_Dave]

On my '74 C20 project, I am going with the C20 to C10 2.5" drop spindle kit. I am removing the 14bolt rear end and swapping in a '79 12bolt. I got the '79 after the dude cut off the spring perches, so I have to order a set. My questions:

(1) If I remove some of the leaves from the C20 leaf pack and delete the overload springs, can I use the C20 springs or should I go with some C10 springs?

(2) If I go with C10 springs, are the eyes the same width and diameter? Do I have to swap out the hangers and shackles or can I keep the C20 hangers and shackles?

(3) Are there differences in the spring perches that I need to consider before ordering?

Thanks in advance.

Dave

[74CustomK20]

They might not be the same legnth. You Either Have 56" Springs Or 52" Springs. Truthfully I would think taking out some c20 springs would ride better. But that's an opinion, take it as you want ya know. I'm taking out about 6 springs from my c30 pack and gonna see how that works. And in regard to width they'really both 2-1/2" wide. Same bolt size and all. All hangers the same you might just have to move the rear hanger assembly either forward-backward, or nowhere.

[Super_Dave]

Thanks, I think I will do exactly that... remove some leaves and the overload springs, add shorter u-bolts and spring perches to the 12 Bolt and call it good.

[1970pelle]

74CustomK20 is correct in that C20 main rear leaf spring is longer than the main leaf on a C10. So it would be a easier job over all staying with the C20 spring and reducing the spring pack. And replacing the hangers and shackles. Don't forget new center bolts, they will be a larger size than the C10 center bolts.


Ken

[Super_Dave]

Originally Posted by 1970pelle

So it would be a easier job over all staying with the C20 spring and reducing the spring pack. And replacing the hangers and shackles. Don't forget new center bolts, they will be a larger size than the C10 center bolts.
Ken

Hi Ken,

So, if I keep the C20 leaf springs that are on the truck and remove the overload springs and a few leaves from the main pack, do I have to replace the hangers and shackles?

Replacing the bolts with new makes sense given the 42 year old age of the current bolts.