Time bomb?
 

I have a 10-leaf spring from an old project leaning against the inside wall of my garage, with the center bolt in place. Is this a ticking time bomb? Should I (carefully) disassemble it? Ignore it?

Re: Time bomb?
 

Do you carry life insurance?
If so, your survivors will be taken care of.
Bob

Re: Time bomb?
 

Maybe just wrap some chains around it just to be sure that center bolt does not let go and take out your and a wall. Or to get rid of all the risk, disassemble-very csrefully.

Mike

Re: Time bomb?
 

Is the spring any good?

If questionable, take to scrap yard.

Have you ever seen a 90 year old chair that an over weight person has been sitting on for 90 years?

Re: Time bomb?
 

Front or Rear?

If it's a rear spring follow the advice given..!

Re: Time bomb?
 

If it is a rear spring it is dangerous if mounted in shackles on a differential. It is in a relaxed state if not, and shouldn't worry you.

Re: Time bomb?
 

It should be fine if the spring or bolt is not rusted badly. Rear springs are very powerful, but the bolt should hold OK. I have 3 rear springs setting in my barn and nothing has happened for many years. If you really are nervous, take a medium to large C clamp and clamp it next to the bolt.
Rusty Nelson

Re: Time bomb?
 

Im not sure what you are worried about??. A spring pack just leaning against a wall or lying on the floor has very little energy stored in it since the leaves are pre bent before assembly. They do have SOME energy as they do have a preload on them but it's not a lot. I've never played with Model A rear springs but I have a few lying around. They could be different but I would be surprised.

Re: Time bomb?
 

thats my thoughts - i would be more afraid of it falling over and crushing toes from weight than it flying apart.

Re: Time bomb?
 

Isn't 10 leaf a front spring? I agree with #9. Wear steel toed boots or lay it flat. If it is a rear then there is some stored energy, but I wouldn't worry too much. Put a C clamp or two on it if in doubt.