Replacement spring problems

32sbct · Post by **32sbct** » Fri Nov 25, 2011 3:48 pm

I purchased some replacement springs for my M38. The old ones were complete but looked about what you expect for their age. I opted for new replacement springs thinking they would simplify the rebuild, especially since I am not going the correct restoration route.

So the first thing I notice when they arrive is they have pivot eye bushings on both ends. The M38A1 style in one end and the older bronze style in the other end. I take them to the local machine shop to have wrong bushing pressed out and give them a nice OD paint job in preparation for installation.

Today I finally have everything ready, front and rear axles rebuilt, new shocks, everything painted and ready to go. New tires mounted, etc. I put in the pivot bolt, swing the spring into place and start threading the top shackle and bearing into place. Then I go to start the bottom into the spring only to find that the loop in the spring is way too small for shackle bushing. By my measurement the loop is 3/4 inch and the bushing is around 7/8".

I was really pissed. I wanted this back on its wheels and tires this weekend. Now I'm stuck. I assume my only course of action is to take the springs back to the machine shop and have then drill the hole larger. My last resort would be to take the old springs apart and use the leaf that has the loop but that job would have to wait until spring because we are past painting weather up here.

These were "made in America" springs manufactured by Crown. I'll contact them next week but based on the fact that the springs are already painted and considering how much they weigh I don't see any other solution. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

[/i]

wilfreeman · Post by **wilfreeman** » Fri Nov 25, 2011 4:54 pm

Are these the springs that the major manufacturers are selling now? I am debating on whether to buy replacement or NOS myself, but didn't get a whole lot of input when I asked the question about fitment and quality of them.

32sbct · Post by **32sbct** » Fri Nov 25, 2011 5:39 pm

I purchased these in July. Based on what I've seen, these are the ones that all the vendors I checked with are selling. I would steer clear of them. They also are one leaf short of what the originals have. Also, the hardware that holds them together is different. Definitely not a good choice if you are going the restoration route. Also, Crown does not sell to the public, only through dealers.

wilfreeman · Post by **wilfreeman** » Fri Nov 25, 2011 7:48 pm

Thanks for the info - maybe you could do a review with pics comparing original and repro in the M Series Parts Supply/Review forum? That way potential buyers will see it as well as vendors and suppliers so they can alter/refine their parts.

willym38 · Post by **willym38** » Fri Nov 25, 2011 7:48 pm

Alot of the useless absolute junk I bought from Kaiser Willys was from Crown, Crown is China just spelled diffrent.

Post by **wesk** » Fri Nov 25, 2011 9:18 pm

For right now I would consider taking the lower shackle bushings to a lathe and turning them down a 1/16".

32sbct · Post by **32sbct** » Fri Nov 25, 2011 9:29 pm

Wes, help me understand. If I turn the lower bushings down 1/16," wouldn't that remove the threads on the exterior of the bushings. I thought these were needed to secure the bushing in the spring? Thanks.

Post by **wesk** » Fri Nov 25, 2011 9:37 pm

It's up to you. If you want the threads just take about 1/32" off and then test fit and then go back to the lathe and once you have the overall diameter you want cut new threads in it. The threads that go between the spring steel spring eye and the outside diameter of the outer bushing do not need to be fancy. It's the interference fit that keeps the bushing in the eye and the threads on the outside of the bushing just help you get them into the spring eye without having to use a press. The important threads are on the ID of that outer bushing.

Another option to consider is going with the aftermarket performance spring plastic bushings and double strap shackle brackets.