Correct replacement for broken leaf spring

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BeHunting

BeHunting

Joined
Jan 9, 2026
Threads
1
Messages
10
Location
Tulsa, OK
New 1981 FJ45 owner here with lots to learn. I seem to have a broken front leaf spring, but not the main one that connects to the hangers. I haven’t had a chance to look for markings on the spring for things like lift and load but I’m guessing I won’t find anything useful.

Is there a measurement I could take that would tell me the lift of the current spring? Center of hub to bottom of fender or something like that?

I'm planning to replace just the two front springs and maintaining the current ride height for now.

Thanks!
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If you bought the truck recently you might try checking with the prior owner. Also, a lot of spring manufactures will paint part/model numbers and other information on the top. Try using a mild soak to wipe away any dirt without rubbing off any markings. Judging by the yellow bushings the springs maybe OME. It might also be helpful to count the number of leaves in each spring that may help with load/lift info.
 
There are not a lot of spring choices when comes to the mid wheel base Land Cruisers. The fronts are all the same for the 40 series. OME list stock or 2.5 lift. Check with the folks at Cruiserteq.com (Cruiser Outfiters)

Also you say that you have a 1981, it doesn’t look like it from the front? There is a difference in the spring eye size from an 81 and to an earlier model.
 
devo said:
There are not a lot of spring choices when comes to the mid wheel base Land Cruisers. The fronts are all the same for the 40 series. OME list stock or 2.5 lift. Check with the folks at Cruiserteq.com (Cruiser Outfiters)

Also you say that you have a 1981, it doesn’t look like it from the front? There is a difference in the spring eye size from an 81 and to an earlier model.
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That truck had to have originated in Central or SA. The spring pins say 81, the bezel and the rest of the truck says "guess what year part I am". I'd love to know why they moved the hood latches. How many leaves in the springs and any marking on the tops?
 
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devo said:
There are not a lot of spring choices when comes to the mid wheel base Land Cruisers. The fronts are all the same for the 40 series. OME list stock or 2.5 lift. Check with the folks at Cruiserteq.com (Cruiser Outfiters)

Also you say that you have a 1981, it doesn’t look like it from the front? There is a difference in the spring eye size from an 81 and to an earlier model.
Click to expand...

Thanks for the info. It was imported from Columbia and titled in the state of Washington as a 1981. The history I have indicates 1981 but, over the last 45 years who knows what changes may have been made to it. Sounds like I need to figure out what specific spring mounts I have instead of relying on the 1981 model year specs. Is there an easier way to figure that out than unbolting a spring mount and measuring it before ordering springs?

Thanks,

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devo said:
Measure! Look what your spring options are based on eye size available. Does your vin plate say 1981?

Also, it’s Colombia not Columbia!
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I have had no luck with VIN lookup. The age, short VIN (< 17 characters) and non-USA original destination seem to be barriers.

Where should I be looking?

Thanks!
 
Just curious if the MFG production date was stamped on the VIN plate? I guess your title declares it as an 1981. Do you have a photo of your VIN plate? The VIN is also stamped on the frame behind the R front tire. I’m pretty sure it is not a 1981 FJ-45 pick up. You can google images of 1981 FJ-45’s and see the differences.
 
devo said:
This the 45 you are talking about? I doubt it is “highly original” if sold as a 1981
View attachment 4067491
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That's it. After 45 years I don't expect it to by highly original but it doesn't appear to have any crazy mods either. No light bar!
:)

I'm not trying to maintain originality. I'm just trying to keep the right height about where it is and replace just the front springs.
 
devo said:
Just curious if the MFG production date was stamped on the VIN plate? I guess your title declares it as an 1981. Do you have a photo of your VIN plate? The VIN is also stamped on the frame behind the R front tire. I’m pretty sure it is not a 1981 FJ-45 pick up. You can google images of 1981 FJ-45’s and see the differences.
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The VIN plate, frame stamp, and title all match: FJ45906842

Looking at the other from the 80's I see that mine has no door vent window, the grill is different, and the bed is one common to some south American countries. I'll compare other details later today.
 
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Back in the day, there was a Blacksmith/spring shop in Sacramento. they re-arched my rear springs and made 2 new leaves for me. Perhaps there is some place similar near you?
 
I totally agree, inspect both sides and check for little gaps. Should not be none. Also for wear at the ends if each spring. Jack up and let the spring hang to see them. Rearching the springs will make more stiff. But whoever does them in your area can point you or tell what you need to do. I would just replace the pair with a reputable vendor and be done with it. There are vendors that support this site try asking for their advice.
 
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Based on the pics your front springs don't even match each other to begin with - likely they are a conglomeration of random leafs/springs which is pretty typical of South American 40 series. You can see the shackle angles are very different side to side and the spring clamps are not the same side to side either. Do not be surprised if you also end up needing to replace shackles, pins, and U-bolts, and spring plates as all are likely replaced but old parts.

unless you think you are likely to add a heavier winch later I would recommend a pair of OME CS001F (and new bushings) which should keep the height around the same and will likely ride and drive a LOT better. I can have a setup in your hands within a few days or so
407-257-3693 / info@cruisermatts.com
 
Save yourself the headache. Just buy a entire new set of leaf springs. And possibly prepare yourself for additional mechanical repairs. Unfortunately the SA "Restored" cruisers tend to need a lot of work to make reliable. I hope you do not have that issue.
 
I have an 81 troopy that I'm planning to swap leaves out of. Pretty sure they're original. Happy to send them your way if you want another "original" set. Then again wouldn't blame you a bit for just wanting new.
 
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