Leaf Spring Prep...

[PeteVS]

I have a Model A rear spring for my project car. I got it all disassembled, cleaned up, removed a few leaves, had the eyes reversed (by re-arching the main leaf), cleaned up the ends where all the wear occurs and sprayed the individual leaves with rattle can primer. I also have a couple of cans of Slip Plate to use on it. I seem to recall reading that I don't really want paint on the contact surfaces. So, do I want to clean the primer off all the leaves, spray the Slip Plate on the bottom of all the leaves, assemble it and then prime and paint the assembled spring? Or, should I do it in a different manner? Thanks for any help here!

[supereal]

It is OK to spray both sides of the spring leaves, except for the exposed surfaces on the top and bottom of the assembled spring, where it is exposed to road dirt. The primer will not interfere with the Slip Plate. You can insert spring liner, if you prefer. It is available from C&G (800/266-0470) in 30 foot rolls, $12-13. his will require one spring leaf to all the tie bolt and clips to fit. Have the width of your spring when ordering, as the liner comes in 4 different widths.

[deuce_roadster]

I think Kube powder coats his leaves. I am done with old Ford springs, but if I was doing one again that is probably what I would do. The NOS pair in my wagon Kube recovered long ago and are beautiful.

[TJ]

Seems like trying to prime and paint over "slip plate" would be a futile effort.

[VeryTangled]

My comment is about the Slip Plate. Last time I used it was after spray painting the leaves. I found I had to change techniques and hold the can much closer to get the good looking coverage. I'd suggest going heavier on the ends of each leaf. You saw that's where the wear is. I was disappointed at the amount that seemed to scrape off as I compressed the spring pack.

[PeteVS]

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I just remember reading somewhere that paint has a much higher coefficient of friction than bare steel. As a kid, I remember going to the local Esso with my uncle and his '51 C**** for an oil change and lube. The guy doing the work drove a cold chisel between the leaves of the rear springs and shot grease in there. It seems that the slip plate would eliminate the mess. I bought some liner stuff a few years ago and maybe I'll just paint everything before I assemble and use the liner.

[TJ]

Originally Posted by PeteVS

I just remember reading somewhere that paint has a much higher coefficient of friction than bare steel. As a kid, I remember going to the local Esso with my uncle and his '51 C**** for an oil change and lube. The guy doing the work drove a cold chisel between the leaves of the rear springs and shot grease in there. It seems that the slip plate would eliminate the mess. I bought some liner stuff a few years ago and maybe I'll just paint everything before I assemble and use the liner.

I've had good luck with the liner. I use the liner with the lip on it. I taper the ends of the leaves so they don't bite into the leaf below. Then paint all of them and put the liner between each leaf. Has always worked good for me.

[A bones]

Originally Posted by PeteVS

for an oil change and lube. The guy doing the work drove a cold chisel between the leaves of the rear springs and shot grease in there.

Used to work in a shop that had a medium sized chisel, on one flank there was zerk fitting. In the center of the leading edge, was 1/16" hole.
Did not catch the manufacturer's name.

[swanwaco32]

I just did one and used graphite paint from Tractor Supply.

[marko39]

Be carful if you choose the liners I rebuilt the front spring on my 39 (12 leaf)and bought liner from Drake. Because of the added thickness, the tie bolt and spring U clamps were too short.I ended up just coating leafs with graphite.

[alanwoodieman]

I used fifth wheel lube purchased from a truck parts store

[hotrodart]

I had each leaf powder coated for my '40 springs about 25 years ago. Also put teflon between each leaf at the outer contact areas. Many miles later...no issues, no squeaks.....

[PeteVS]

Originally Posted by swanwaco32

I just did one and used graphite paint from Tractor Supply.

Originally Posted by alanwoodieman

I used fifth wheel lube purchased from a truck parts store

Did you put the graphite or grease on painted or bare metal??

[Bored&Stroked]

I just installed new Posies Super Slide springs on my 32 Cabriolet. I disassembled the springs and powder-coated them all, then reassembled the springs (with the little plastic 'pucks'). It was a bit of a pain in the rear, but everything worked out just fine.

The only issue for me is that the suspension is a LOT softer than the original springs. So, while it rides a lot nicer/softer, it also has more body roll than before. I like the softer ride, but do not like the additional body roll in the corners . . . . Arggggghhh!

This now has be thinking about a custom sway bar and better shocks. Seems that I "fix" one thing, then I need to fix three others . . . just the way it is with our cars!

[marko39]

Originally Posted by PeteVS

Did you put the graphite or grease on painted or bare metal??

I painted first with epoxy primer.