Swapping Leaf Springs

From: Kyle Kozubal (grndak4x4@home.com)
Date: Fri Jul 21 2000 - 00:56:38 EDT


Ok, I want to be able to haul more/heavier items in my truck's bed, as well
as not having the rear end sag as much as it does when I tow. So I figure I
have 2 options:
#1.......buy some Hellwig 'helper springs'
#2.......replace the current entire leaf spring pack with the 'optional'
springs

My Dak, unfortunately has the smaller springs, which are rated at 1,450
pounds. The optional larger springs are rated at a nice 2,000 pounds. Should
I spend $100 for the Hellwig leaves, which is a 1,500 pound helper kit for
my Dakota and includes 4 springs(1 behind and 1 infront of each axle).
Installation wouldbe a breeze, as they simply bolt onto the existing leaf
pack. Does this number actually increase capabilities 1,500 pounds? So my
Dak 'would' be able to then carry 2,950 pounds(theoretically) in the bed.

I have found several wrecked Dakotas, with the 2,000 pound springs. These
are the complete spring packs. So I would most likely have to take them off
the old truck, take mine off, and bolt on the new ones. A good day worth of
a project. These 2,000 pounds springs would run me about $50 per side. Plus
I would most likely upgrade to urethane bushings at the same time, and get
all new leaf spring bolts.
Whatcha all think would be the better way to go?
Kyle
93 Dakota 4x4 V6



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