b-body springs

[jasperjacko]

Anybody know if b-body springs will fit a j-body?

 

[MiradaMegacab]

Yes but the B-Body front segment is 2" shorter so you have to use 2" longer front hangers.

 

[Dago Red]

Hum a Few Bars

To modify an old carpenters saying: Measure twice, purchase/install once. :eusa_doh:

 

[MiradaMegacab]

FirmFeel has hangers to mount E-body springs in a J body.

I cant find specs for the diminsions of these longer hangers. Mancini lists longer brackets but doesnt actually give specs as to length...

 

[slant6billy]

What about the iso clamp of the FMJ? will it need some tending to to make it work or what?

 

[MiradaMegacab]

I run B-body 8 3/4 rears with B-body shock plates, eliminating the iso-crap.

 

[slant6billy]

MMC, did you do that by chance, choice or direction. I guess that is what I'm trying to figure out. My concern is U bolts. It looks like a set of replacement U bolts for my f body are too long for the 8 3/4 if I utilize the iso clamp. It looks like the threads on the U bolts end too soon and I need another inch to inch and a 1/4 towards the U bend. I could cut some 1 inch spacer block. That too starts to get too much and I want a more straight forward approach with as little modifying as possible- me Mr modification and custom; such as it is.

 

[MiradaMegacab]

The weak link in any of the J-bodys drive train was the 7 1/4 rear. The 8 1/4 rears didnt hold up too long for me either. The factory leaf spring front oval eyelet was another weak point. I would snap the driver side leaf spring, right after the eyelet. So for me stepping upto an 8 3/4 with super stock (SS) leaf springs was a neccesity. Eliminating the iso-crap was by choice. Those rubber pads held water and rust out the iso-clamp parts.

As far as the U-bolts go, try to find ones that have a flattend part in the U itself, this will avoid crushed or distorted axle tubes. I have distorted passenger side axle tubes where the U-bolts retain the housing. Aftermarket Green bearings arent forgiving on a bent housing and wont last long.

 

[slant6billy]

Yep, I shattered 2 of the 7 1/4s with my slanted buzz'n 1/2 dozen back in the day. Upgraded to 8 1/4 and then the 8 3/4 and the ford 9 inch. My Dad welded brackets to accept the different rears- especially the 9 inch. My current F has the 8 1/4. I have access to an early 70's 8 3/4 with a 489 case. I would not use this because of the width. I do have access to a few rears of the correct fitment.
thanks