dearching OME springs

[LuvenMud15]

I have OME springs (SUA), and i want to do SOA but i think ill have to much lift if i do SOA with the OME, my question is where can i dearch my OME, i live in northern va..
and i want to run 38's so can i dearch them to where they have like an inch of lift, instead of them being totally flat??
thanks,
mark

 

[60wag]

It will be pretty hard to flatten the springs without locally yielding a few spots. What you end up with is basicall a bent spring with a fatigued spot that will crack down the road. If you can properly heat and retemper the entire spring, you might be able to do it. IMO, sell the OMEs as they will have pretty good resale value. Buy a set of stockers that are in decent shape.

 

[1tontoy]

I'm running OME, extended shackles SOA on D60HD/D70FF axles with 37's. I believe you will need the spring's lift to clear 38's.

If your rear springs are the OME heavies, I suggest removing the overload leaf.

To answer your question about dearching: Yes you can dearch, rearch to your desired lift height. It does fatigue the springs. Using heat IS NOT THE WAY TO GO. This permanently weakens the metal's molecular structure. The proper way to dearch, rearch is to disassemble the springs and repress each leaf. Then reassemble the packs. Check heavy truck repair shops and heavy driveline shops, they can do it.

Selling them is also a very good idea. Though, the OME will result in more flex.

hope this helps.
I originally dearched my OME's, then ended up rearching them. :whoops: cause they settled so much sitting on top of the axle.

 

[LuvenMud15]

alright thanks alot!!

 

[pismojim]

I wouldn't worry about it. My OME heavies de-arched themselves in SOA mode.

Load it heavy and wheel it in the rocks. SOA really works the springs hard. They wear out before you know it.

I'm saving for new springs, mine are sacked.