Spring spreader for reversed eyes
 

I made up a spring spreader for use with reversed eye springs, particularly for a Model A rear. I used two lengths of 3/4 pipe and 3/4 threaded rod, both welded to a pair of 1-1/2" angle iron. I made the pipe portions in two pieces so part of them can be unscrewed for use on a front spring. There are two small plates to clamp the angle iron to the spring leaf. I only intend to use this for the main leaf and assemble the other leaves to it once the main leaf is mounted. The pipes are on 8-1/2" centers to clear the banjo casting.

https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/pictu...ictureid=41819

https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/pictu...ictureid=41820

https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/pictu...ictureid=41821

Re: Spring spreader for reversed eyes
 

I like it. Having it split across two pushers saves having to come up with a massively strong part to straddle the rear end housing.

Re: Spring spreader for reversed eyes
 

Looks to be a clever way of doing it. However, wouldn't it be a good idea to bevel the portion of the angle iron that goes under the spring eye so that it goes in as far as possible? From the picture, it looks like the angle has a little less "grip" under the eye than it could have. Then again, I've always been a "belt AND suspenders" guy on stuff like this.

Re: Spring spreader for reversed eyes
 

That might work with just the main leaf but watch out for the pipe couplings. That is the weak link. Yes more angle on the angle irons. I see the reverse eyes were not rolled to tight and your angle iron does not go in to much. JMHO

Re: Spring spreader for reversed eyes
 

Looks like there is a bar under the spring leaf, bolted to the angle iron.

I'm with Jim on those cast pipe couplings; not a good idea to use them under kind of load.

On the other hand; I have never had a problem installing any kind of Ford main leaf by hand.

Re: Spring spreader for reversed eyes
 

The area of the angle iron where it engages the spring eye is ground to about a 60º included angle to get good engagement. There are also two plates under the spring leaf that bolt to the angle iron. Main thing I tried to get in the design is to have all the force right along the axis of the pipe / threaded rod so there's little if any. bending forces.