Rear Leaf Springs Sagging on 66 Town Landau

[John-Burgess]

Next project on list is to replace rear leaf springs on my 66 Town Landau as springs are worn and sagging, especially the right. I remember when these cars were only 5 or 6 years they were starting to sag already. Saw several posts in another forum where users were installing convertible springs in their Landau's as the convertible springs were stiffer and helped keep car height higher over time. Has anyone here done this?

The other option is to have a spring shop rebuild them but after 44 years I'm not sure if that is such a good idea. Thanks for your input.

 

[lazy390]

I had a similar problem with my 64, and i had them reset and an extra leaf added.This kept the factory spring rate and allowed them to be made individually. The advantage of this is with most mass produced cars they dont sit perfectly level ,and in my case 20mm lower on the drivers side, and they were made to adjust this.The car now sits level and rides as it should.Putting in heavier leaf springs in the rear will upset the ride and will cause the car to pivot off the rear springs making the front bounce alot more.

 

[Thunderbirds NW]

Rear Springs 66 T-Bird

A reputable spring shop in Seattle made new springs for our 66 T-Bird. A shop knowledgeable of old cars should be able do the job. When you get the car back there will be a slight rake on it, until the weight of the car settles the springs in. In one year the car will be level! Our original springs were completely shot, so re arching and adding one new leaf wasn't a possibility. It seems most old T-Birds I see have sagging springs. Thunderbirds NW

 

[TerryKerr]

I just measured mine which are in horrific shape as well. 5 leaf, 60" x 2.75"
that's on a 64 convertible. I can have new ones made to spec by a large spring company in Vancouver Canada. Has anyone installed them on their own or should it be done by a shop. I don't have a torch, if something hangs up. I'm thinking a good spray of liquid wrench should make it feasible.
Comments?

 

[Thunderbirds NW]

Rear Springs

I don't know how difficult removal and replacement of rear springs are. I do suggest you talk with Craig Auto Spring Company, 1535 NW Leary Way, Seattle WA. 206-784-0072-3. They are located in the Ballard District of Seattle. They can give you insight of how difficult the job is. They have been in business for many years. Best of luck