Front leaf spring ?

70oldsracer

I replaced the rear leaf springs in my cart and now I would like to raise the front just a little bit more. It has a 6" lift kit, but I don't like the way it's sitting upfront. I was thinking about adding a 3/4" block between the rear of both springs and the frame of the cart. From the service manual, it looks like the head of bolts can only be accessed from under the mat. Just wondering if anyone has done this before with decent success.

BGW

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70oldsracer

I also noticed that the stock bolts are grade 5. Since I will be going from 1 3/4" to 2 1/2", should I upgrade to grade 8?

Sir Nuke

if it were me, that's what I would do.

Sideways

I moved the front springs over the front axle on my Medalist when I added larger wheels and tires.
Very easy to do and raised the front about 1 3/4's. I had to use longer bolts (grade 8's).
Yes you have to access the rear mount bolt heads from under the floor mat.
I went ahead and replaced the rear mount bolts with grade 8's as well. (same length as stock bolts)

70oldsracer

Yep, same here, but I just want a little more lift to make it sit even with the rear. I'm thinking a 3/4" spacer between rear of the front leaf springs and the chassis will do the trick. I don't want to lift the front of the spring anymore, because I'm afraid it will start hitting the tie rods. I ordered the 7/16-14 grade 8 bolts from Mcmaster carr and I'll give it a try this week.

Attached Images

Front end.jpg (57.0 KB, 0 views)

Sideways

My tie rods were rubbing after I moved the front springs, ended up heating and bending the spindles where the tie rods mount, I was able to get enough clearance that I don't have a problem with bump steer. Realigned the frt end and have been good ever since.

70oldsracer

The way the cart sits right now, my tie rods clear my springs without any issues. By putting spacers between the rear of the spring and the chassis, it will not effect anything with the front end and will actually move the leaf spring further away from the tie rod.

jclark138

In case anyone is curious, Grade 5 is very tough, and Grade 8 is a little more brittle- something to keep in mind if shock-load is a consideration. Sometimes a larger Grade 5 is more beneficial; if the application will allow, than moving to grade 8. Also, heating of things like spindles (enough to bend) will alter the original heat treat. Just check them now and again, as they’ll now bend a lot easier.
My two-cents -

70oldsracer

I finally got around to putting those 3/4" spacers and grade 8 bolts. To be honest, I really don't see any difference. I guess I have to break down and buy new front leaf springs.

Attached Images

spring spacer.jpg (52.6 KB, 0 views)