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Leaf Spring Restoration Question

Started by 70_440-6Cuda, March 10, 2025, 12:48:47 PM

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70_440-6Cuda

Hey all, recently had my leaf springs restored, and was re-reading the thread below and noticed the springs have a different number of clamps, which from what I can find is correct.  However, I also noticed the picture @6bblgt posted the clamps are unfinished - I am assuming that is the way they should be done?  The shop painted over mine with the rest of the springs - guess I should have checked first!

Also, I found a few sources where you can buy new clamps - anyone know how true to original they are and any suggestions where you got them from?  If they are supposed to be unfinished, i think I will swap mine out before it all gets assembled

https://forum.e-bodies.org/wheels-tires-brakes-suspension-and-steering/12/leaf-spring-identification-expert-help-please/29498/

Also, is there a specific paint for the springs that should be used?
You can't buy happiness, but you can buy horsepower and that's kind of the same thing.....

70_440-6Cuda

You can't buy happiness, but you can buy horsepower and that's kind of the same thing.....

JH27N0B

It's been awhile since I was in the middle of my T/A restoration, but at the time I recall finding out sometimes springs were painted black and sometimes they aren't.
Mine are painted but I don't recall what product was used.
The go-to source for kits to restore leaf springs then and presumably still is, Frank Badelson.  He's an expert on original parts and finishes, and is a judge for survivor cars.  He shared restoration info when I dealt with him and I bought some pictures from him of survivor cars details to use in my cars restoration.
https://www.rogergibsonautorestoration.com/parts/home/


headejm

I agree. Some leaf springs are painted and some are not. I'm not sure what the deciding factor is but painted makes more sense to me. My 1970 RTSE had painted leaf springs so I painted mine when doing the restoration. I used semi-gloss black paint which I believe to be correct for painted leaf springs.

mtull

I'm surprised I couldn't find more information on this topic.  Mopar vs. Ford leaf spring restoration, both are a good read.
- Barn Find Dodge Daytona—Part 6: Undercarriage Restoration
- Proper Rear Leaf Spring Colour