Parabolics vs regular leaf springs? 79 series w/ modcap

[CHILLCAT]

I’m researching suspension for a 79 single cab - with a planned alu-cab modcap addition (roughly 500 lbs).

I don’t expect to have much more additional weight regularly.

*Any opinions on parabolics vs multi leafs for this setup? I’ve been considering Dobinsons so far.

**Should I step up the spring weight/load with the alucab? I’ve heard underrated springs can be fine with good shocks. I just don’t want to create too stiff of a ride.


Thanks for any input!

 

[wardharris]

I am plan exactly the same combo for my 79. Will fit Terrain Tamer parabolic kit from @orangefj45 in California

 

[CHILLCAT]

I am plan exactly the same combo for my 79. Will fit Terrain Tamer parabolic kit from @orangefj45 in California

Looking forward to watching your build Ward. Meshal is helping me source a 79 as well.

Are there different weight ratings on the terrain tamer lift you’re doing? And how much lift are you doing? Would love to hear what you’ve got planned

 

[wardharris]

Thanks - I will share more but here’s a start

https://www.terraintamer.com/da/documents/parts/suspension/toyota/198-sk007/file

 

[Hulsty]

I'm a big fan of Parabolics, my BJ74 has multi leaf, holds the load well but higher interleaf friction means the smaller bumps etc arent great. Recently drove a current Ford Ranger and a New VDJ79 dual cab across the Simpson desert. They both really impressed me with the ride comfort in all conditions, it was seriously impressive. Both use the ARB system of a parabolic with an assist airbag for when additional load is applied.

 

[DrRock]

I’m researching suspension for a 79 single cab - with a planned alu-cab modcap addition (roughly 500 lbs).

I don’t expect to have much more additional weight regularly.

*Any opinions on parabolics vs multi leafs for this setup? I’ve been considering Dobinsons so far.

**Should I step up the spring weight/load with the alucab? I’ve heard underrated springs can be fine with good shocks. I just don’t want to create too stiff of a ride.


Thanks for any input!

If it were me I would spec the springs with the 500lb Alucab as this will be your baseline. From there you will add additional weight if I understand you correctly. Trying to use shocks to make up for spring rate doesn't work out well from my perspective and can bring on a host of other handling issues.

 

[PhillipJFrye]

I’m researching suspension for a 79 single cab - with a planned alu-cab modcap addition (roughly 500 lbs).

I don’t expect to have much more additional weight regularly.

*Any opinions on parabolics vs multi leafs for this setup? I’ve been considering Dobinsons so far.

**Should I step up the spring weight/load with the alucab? I’ve heard underrated springs can be fine with good shocks. I just don’t want to create too stiff of a ride.


Thanks for any input!

I've got TT parabolics on my troopy. My car isn't that heavy so the change in ride quality was small. Good, but small. One thing is the parabolics are much lighter than the oem springs, if you're concerned with weight. The new TT springs and shocks on the front improved cornering a lot.