When to replace leaf pics attached (1 Viewer)

[RyanCostaRica]

Hey guys wondering when it's time to replace my leaf springs. And if there is any point in upgrading to a new generation suspension system. Meaning getting rid of the spring/coil combo for better ride quality.

 

[bikersmurf]

It's mostly about ride height. Taller springs usually ride rougher though.

The one drawback to your setup is that the extended shackles in the front reduce the castor angle increasing the tendency to wander. Wedges can be added to compensate for this.

Your shackles also appear bent... And it's not a lot of fun if they crack and fail on the trail.

 

[RyanCostaRica]

Hey sorry I I sound dumb but what has been extended my leaf springs? If so where and what should I wedge to compensate? Or should I just get a knew set of leaf springs?

 

[sometlc]

The wedge or shim that bikersmurf is referring to goes between your leaf springs and the perch on your differential. They are basically just a metal shim with a hole in it for the pin in your leaf pack. They come in various degrees depending on your need. I think I used a 4 degree shim in mine. If the ride height is good the springs should be good. I agree that your shackles look bent in the first and second pictures you posted. I would look into the shims, replace your shackles and put in new bushings. Does your cruiser sit level?

 

[Dieseler]

The shackles are the metal bars that attach the leafs to the frame ...they are longer than a stock shackle and cause ride issues like wandering when driving down a paved road.

 

[RyanCostaRica]

Ya she sits level no issue there.
Going to replace shackle and bushing next week. Hopefully that will improve my ride.

 

[DSRTRDR]

Going to replace shackle and bushing next week. Hopefully that will improve my ride.

new bushings will improve the ride - but leaf suspensions will never ride like a modern car

before you throw new springs at it, fix the things that are obviously wrong, like the shackles, or just gone, like your bushings

 

[AlaskanWheeler]

Those bushings could be gone due to the fact that the shackles are way too tight, a quality shackle would have a shoulder, mechanically limiting the amount of force you can put on the bushing. That center pin collar arangment kinda served the same purpose but was overcome by a previous owner?

 

[RyanCostaRica]

Ya must be I haven't done any work to suspension yet. Enroute to mechanic now to order new shackle and bushings.

 

[RyanCostaRica]

Well I went to my mechanic here in the jungle and figured out what needs to be replaced.
All four bushings on front oil shock mounts.
All 12 bushings in front end on shackles.
And he is going to fix my current shackles.
Also I went a head and ordered a new steering linkage kit? No clue what it's called in English.
There was a lot of play in some of the arms. And they don't sell individual arms so I got a new set.
Here are some pics of bushings from shocks

 

[cjgoode]

I think if you go back to stock size shackles you will be close to having the axle hit the bump stops on the front.

 

[AlaskanWheeler]

Taking a closer look at that passengers side spring pack, it almost looks like there is an add-a-leaf in there.

 

[RyanCostaRica]

Ya I'm nt going back to stock shackle size. Height is crucial on these roads. At least that what I tell me girl. Need the big tires