I think I may finally get a set of springs this wknd. They're Rancho 3" rears for a H3, brand new, 49" eye-eye (only 2" longer than 44044's), 5 leaves per, 2.5" wide, & priced right for me. Since most guys using 44044's end up taking leaves out to lower/soften the ride, I think these may be a better choice since they're a hair longer, 1 less leaf, and I'd guess sprung softer for a rear application, albeit an SUV application. I do plan to french the mounts so I hope these will work.
Any thoughts on drilling new "center" pin holes an inch or two forward of the actual center pin? Will it hurt ride quality?