I am currently running Downey 3" springs in the rear that have sagged due to the amount of gear\weight I carry when I go offroading\crawling.

Downey is sending me a new pack under warranty (and I don't have to return the old pack).

Before I install the new springs I want to add an additional leaf from the old Downey spring pack to the new Downey Spring pack to help support the extra weight I carry.

The spring I want to add is the one with the loops, but I will have to cut those off.

What is the best way to cut off the Loops so I can use the springs? Plasma cutter? Sawzall? Grinder? Gas Torch?

Is it OK to cut off the loops and use the spring?

Any other ideas?


NOTE:This will be a temporary solution until next summer when I will be able to install some chevies or All Pros.

Thanks

:beer:

grinder and cutoff wheel

i used a torch. but a grinder or anything else will work if you like to try to grind all day. it took about 10 seconds per hoop.

i know it ruins the spring:rolleyes: i didn't care!

Usually the top spring won't lift the truck very much because they're not very stiff. I would use one of the lower leaves if possible, they are usually the stronger ones.

Cut them with whatever...but a grinder is gonna suck. Oxy/Acet. setup will work better. Just for fun, you should try to drill a hole in part of a spring some time. You'll love it.

Originally posted by Blue82
Just for fun, you should try to drill a hole in part of a spring some time. You'll love it. Piece of cake, spot heat to a cherry red with Oxy/Ace torch to cherry, let cool and drill. Use a good lube like Tap-Ease.

for those who say a grinder is going to suck, you obviously have never tried it or have shitty equipment. it doesnt take anything special and is no more difficult then mild steel. i just like the grinder because it leaves a cleaner finish then a torch.

Originally posted by DMS1
I am currently running Downey 3" springs in the rear that have sagged due to the amount of gear\weight I carry when I go offroading\crawling.

Downey is sending me a new pack under warranty (and I don't have to return the old pack).

Before I install the new springs I want to add an additional leaf from the old Downey spring pack to the new Downey Spring pack to help support the extra weight I carry.

The spring I want to add is the one with the loops, but I will have to cut those off.

What is the best way to cut off the Loops so I can use the springs? Plasma cutter? Sawzall? Grinder? Gas Torch?

Is it OK to cut off the loops and use the spring?

Any other ideas?


NOTE:This will be a temporary solution until next summer when I will be able to install some chevies or All Pros.

Thanks

:beer:


I just use a chop saw. if you do not have one, go to the local metal mart, and they will cut it for about $5.00
:D :D

I just use a pneumatic cutoff wheel and cut part way through and then snap it off in a vise and then cleanup with your favorite handheld grinder. I cut down 8 leafs on both ends in about 45 mins last night. Works great

Just wanted to thank you all for the good replies:beer:

I am planning on using the 2nd leaf of the old pack, however it also has a loop on it that needs to be cut off and I plan on making that leaf the 3rd leaf in the new pack. I guess I will try the Grinder with the cut off wheel first.

Nobody thinks a Plasma cutter is a good way to cut the spring?

I am also thinking about removing my spare tire from the rear bumper and making a roof rack mount for it above the cab to help move some of the weight more forward.


Cheers


:beer:

chop saw its quick and easy then grind the edges

Originally posted by DMS1
Nobody thinks a Plasma cutter is a good way to cut the spring?

I am also thinking about removing my spare tire from the rear bumper and making a roof rack mount for it above the cab to help move some of the weight more forward.



Yes, a plasma cutter is a great way to cut the leaves - just use a straight edge to get a good cut, and also "dog ear" the cornrs of the ends like all aftermarket leaves are done so you don't localize all of the load at the end of that leaf.

As for moving the tire - I would not do it. Although you are moving the weight forward, you are also moving the weight UP - making more vehicle MORE top heavy, not to mention the PITA it is to get to a spare up there when you need it and it is muddy, wet, or nasty...