problem with leaf springs in morocco

[Moodoo]

Hello, from UK members

We are in Zagora (Morocco) en route from UK to South Africa. Have been on the pistes for a number of days, just done Chris Scotts M6 in our 1989 Toyota HJ60. We fitted OME heavy duty springs and shocks.

However have just been at the mechanic (Mohamed Gordita) here who has pointed out that the top leaf of one of the rear heavy duty old man emu leaf springs is not running completely parallel to the other leaves. It does look slightly like the curve is inconsistent with the others and there is a noticeable very slim gap towards the spring mounting in the centre.

He has advised that this can cause the leaf to break on v rough pistes and he can straighten the leaf (with a hammer i think??)

Anyone know if this is a problem we should be concerned with, and if so is this a recognised fix? Cannot find anything on the internet about this. We have calculated we are carrying about 500kgs and 3 people is this too much?

Any ideas appreciated

Many thanks for reading

Andrew

 

[Pin_Head]

I don't think that this is a significant problem. Hammering on it isn't a good solution as it may work harden the steel.

 

[rockyklg]

have you talked to MAF or OME about it? cool trip

 

[philos1]

pics would help here- regardless, does not sound too bad (through your description). i'd check the springs wraps and make sure they're OK, as long as they're holding the spring pack together, it should'nt be an issue. also, check the u-bolts while you're there. HTH, and good luck!

 

[philos1]

oh, and keep "little fat (gordita) mohammed's" hammer away from your springs!

 

[Moodoo]

OME Springs In Morocco

Many thanks all for your replies:

We got the springs off and called ARB who were really good (top marks for cust service). It turns out the 'Anti Inversion' shackles were incorrectly installed (!), so the spring has possibly inverted causing the gap. ARB said not too worry too much so we put the shackles on the right way round this morning.

Will definitely keep Mohamed's hammer away from the springs!
(just cannot see how such hardened metal can be bent like that)

Knew at least one issue would turn up when he suggested getting the vehicle over the pit! However good work spotting the issue in the first place. . .

Fingers crossed for the next rocky piste

Cheers all,

Andrew

 

[hks3sgte]

I have to see some pictures of your trip!