J BODY LEAF SPRINGS

C

CM360

Well-Known Member
Joined
Sep 18, 2011
Messages
369
Reaction score
25
So, I got the correct info on swapping out 7 1/4 to 8 3/4 rear( on the hunt mode). Now, I'm looking for info on the length of the leaf springs, eye to eye and overall length. Found replacement springs on FFI and by the time I done, CalTracs are cheaper(estimated).CalTracs has in stock FM set ups in stock. I do not have the car in hand(1981 Cordoba). Looking for all the suspension parts that, in my mind, can be a deal breaker if I can't get them. Probably my last FMJ build(318 turbo) street DD. Your help is greatly appreciated. Thanks
 
It's probably going to be a easier using a late model axle rather than hunting for something that ceased production 50 years ago.

Does Cal Trac have normal leaf springs or just the split mono leaf? Mono is going to make for a car that rides horribly on the street.

What's your budget and what's the intent? You can make these cars handle on rails (I have), but it's not cheap.
 
My 1st feeble attempt at turbocharging a 273 netted about 400HP. Plumbing nightmare and before blow thru carbs were around. Just looking at Firm Feel, there always seems to be another add-on and you are still not finished. ESPO is no longer making spring for most cars. They are whittling down their inventory to die out. Maybe that the J platform is just a waste of time, money and utility. Thanks for your info.
 
Used General Spring myself.

IMG_4405.jpeg
 
CM360 said:
My 1st feeble attempt at turbocharging a 273 netted about 400HP. Plumbing nightmare and before blow thru carbs were around. Just looking at Firm Feel, there always seems to be another add-on and you are still not finished. ESPO is no longer making spring for most cars. They are whittling down their inventory to die out. Maybe that the J platform is just a waste of time, money and utility. Thanks for your info.
Click to expand...

I wouldn't call that feeble by any stretch. You doubled the HP of that motor.

Don't get caught up in chasing the entire product catalog at FF. I can give you an itemized list sorted by biggest bang-for-buck for suspension mods. I had a lengthy post somewhere I on this forum. I'll see if I can find it.
 
Espo Springs n Things is still selling FMJ springs, they have a lot left and they're not going out of business anytime soon
 
Funny, I got an email/ advertisement from them stating that they are selling off inventory. I'll have to call. Thanks
 
CM360 said:
Funny, I got an email/ advertisement from them stating that they are selling off inventory. I'll have to call. Thanks
Click to expand...
They're older and trying to get rid of the springs because they're too heavy for them at their age.

I'm almost tempted to buy a 2nd set of springs and hoard them
 
I wouldn't bother, any new ones now should last the rest of the life of the car. The plus with leaf springs is they last for decades and any truck shop can service them if needed. Re arch them, add a leaf, make a new main. They could make a whole new bundle but it's cheaper to get that from places that already do that and there are a few around. You rarely actually have to replace the entire set to begin with but at least we're not screwed if everyone stops selling our specific ones.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top