| |
9 With the old spring laying
next to the new (bottom) we were suprised to find them to be
the same part numbers. A local Mustang spring supplier told
us that the 42-437 part number is the standard four leaf replacement
spring for 65-70 Mustangs. |
10 Leaf springs generally
come with new front bushings pressed in. However you'll need
to install new rear bushings, or transfer your old ones if they
are in good shape. Ours had under 10,000 miles so we didn't
hesitate to reuse them. Use a little silicone spray or white
lithium grease to make installation easier. |
11 A common remedy for sagging
leafsprings is to prop them back up with longer shackles -which
results in the unsightly hardware hanging below the rear valance.
Now is the time to ditch the drop shackles and pick up a new
OEM set. They usually come with new bushings, all for under
$40. |
12 The new spring is installed
into the front frame socket first. Then swing it upward from
the rear and secure it to the rear bushing bracket. Then secure
the U-bolts and shock plate to the axle tube. |
13 We're using a 1"
aluminum block to lower the car and keep it level with the front.
In our opinion this is the easiest and most versitile way to
lower the rearend. Some companies sell leafsprings which have
the drop built in the spring (the rear "eye" is either
"reversed" or "middle" of the spring.) With
the lowering block you can always remove or mill it if you need
to bring the end up a little in the future. |
14 The finished result is
a car that has the proper ride height and no longer looks like
a stink bug doing it's business. New leaf springs will also
restore the road handling and stability of the vehicle. F/M |
