Series Leaf Springs

[one0nine]

OK, so, the X-hundred pound question. Yes, I have performed a search, but (probably my incompetence) I can find few 'recent' references to the state of the leaf spring supply. Thing is, I need to sort out the springs, I'm hoping the 2000's dubious spring offerings are now a thing of the past.

Last set of rears I bought, those on the 109 at the moment, were the genuine 535173's (1800-4200 lb) (1-Ton) ex-Dunsfold. These I fitted to cope with the 'emergency' towing/lugging that the 109 may have had to do (reliance on an old Transit), this task is no longer required. The 109 is now running around bare, the suspension is rigid, solid, I can't cope. Front has an interesting mix of springs, the gauge on the leaves is heavier on the right, lesser on the left. Car leans heavily to the left (they all do that sir), with me, with fuel and without.

Avoiding any reference to suppliers then, are the 'British Made' springs offered by the box shifters any good these days?

Would you still fit 'handed' springs to this 109, or consider a balanced set. Up front is a Mazda 3.0HA (aka 4.182), not too different weight wise from the 2.6 that was once there. The battery is above the front RH chassis rail as usual, I'm on the right too. Fuel is on the left only (under the LH seat). There's nothing in the rear that's out of balance.  Spring offerings are the RH 279678, LH 279679 for the rear (1500-3570 lb , 1450-2500 lb) and LH 264563, 265627 and RH 276034.

A digression perhaps, but the main question remains the quality of the more recent springs. Are they any good?

[steve b]

I fitted a set of new std. petrol 2.25 109 TC springs front and rear (fronts are handed) last year and they are no less than perfect . It sits level  with or without driver at the correct ride height with what seems to be the correct spring rate too . These were the 2nd attempt - the first set were from BM and were in excess of 3x the correct rate so were returned , I never did get any follow up to my extensive testing and quality feedback .

The second set were from Jones Springs and are as stated . They also recondition your old ones if you prefer - a route a friend has gone down with his early 2A FC 109 and they look to be equally good . I have no connection with Jones but they seem to be much like Ashcrofts or Turners , a family business and specialists in their field .  I ruled out parabolics for two reasons , original look was important and I could not find a supplier doing standard ride height . I hope this helps.

cheers

Steve b

ps. 109 is best

[Arjan]

TIC is a known supplier.

I recently collected springs from this company - https://sandersonleafsprings.co.uk/category/leaf-springs/land-rover-series-2-3-springs/ - for a friend and they seem to know what they're talking about. He 's quit pleased with them.

Have a talk with them.

[one0nine]

Thanks for the pointers. I've spoken to Jones (they do appear somewhat informed),  next up a chat with Sanderson and  decision will be made... I used to be indecisive but now I'm not sure.

As with a response above, my preference is for the cart horse leaf spring technology. I personally believe, and this has been suggested, that parabolic springs may not have the desired lateral stiffness in my application (it's a military device, with extended hangers). Certainly, the ride with the Transit (on factory 'parabolic' springs) sees a bit of sideways action when loaded.