Posted this in newb section but it is pretty Ford-specific so here goes

This is for the truck in my sig... I insist upon keeping it leafsprung for simplicity and reliability as it will never be a truly hardcore rockcrawler... more of a capable expedition vehicle. I would consider a set of custom Deaver springs in the future.

Anyways... what can I expect in the way of suspension travel with this thing? I want to plan it out now for shocks as well as my pneumatic cylinder idea which was discussed in Gen4x4.

Is 12" unreasonable to expect? I would like the most I can get but the front end looks like it maybe has 8" tops as is now... but it is rather difficult to flex out a leafsprung rig... especially when it has no engine in it.

I am pretty sure it has stock springs in the back, it will see a shackle reversal to loose the blocks and I THINK the front springs have a ~4" lift. Truck was originally diesel if it matters and was sportin the D50TTB but now has a D60.

As always any input is appreciated. Thanks.

Most leaf sprung F-250's i have been around had more frame flex than suspension flex. These have work truck suspensions so they are quite stiff and were not designed to ride soft and to flex around.

I understand that there is frame flex... especially with my extended cab and long bed... but I plan on doing an exo that will stiffen up the frame a bit. Any idea on actual numbers?

spring rates ultimately determine flex and ride quality

stock they have as much suspension as a cinder block with a worn out sponge on top.

the f350 springs are a step up on the f250 springs because of the lower spring rate. the 250 springs are uber stiff to be able to handle how the ttb works

issue with tryin to long travel a leaf sprung front is the driveshaft slip needs to be very long

good point on the spring difference between ttbf250 and f350, would have to be stiffer to maintain same wheel rate

I understand that the stock springs are not exactly going to be flexy but I guess my question is what is the limit of a leaf sprung fullsize? In the long run, I plan to have custom springs which means I can choose spring rate etc and The driveshaft will be custom so slip is not a concern.

What can a leafsprung rig do?

What can a leafsprung rig do?

Alot if you don't care about being able to carry weight... or take a corner at speed.

http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=70958&d=1056062884