Expert: Carl Brandt - 5/14/2005

Question
i purchased a 3" superlift kit,it came w/a helper spring set-up: this kit is basically a leaf rebuild,there aren't a whole lot of spring shops in my area that can do this, would it be more cost efficient just to purchase a whole new set of leaf springs @300$

Answer
Dave,

I don't know what you paid for the lift kit, or what vehicle you have, but you can get complete lift kits for most Jeeps with leaf springs for around $500.  A complete lift kit of 3" or more, should have a transfer case lowering kit, shocks, along with a drop pitman arm.  Anytime you go with a 3" of lift or more you can expect some drive line vibration unless you lower the transfer case.   This is caused by the larger drive line angle from the differential to the transfer case.  Normally any lift kit with more than an inch or two of lift includes a full spring set.  If you are considering purchasing new springs, then I would consider returning the helper kit, and purchasing a complete kit with new springs, and all the components that you will need.  Just lifting the vehicle 3" without doing the additional modifications can cause vibration, and steering problems.

As far as the helper springs go, I'm surprised that you can't find a spring shop that would do this for you.  Leaf springs are quite easy to work on and rebuild with basic hand tools.  Once the springs are removed, then you can put a c-clamp near the centering pin on the springs to clamp the spring pack together (2 clamps can be used - 1 on each side of the pin).  Then you, simply remove the centering pin, which is nothing more than a bolt with a round head.  The next step is to remove the c-clamp, or clamps slowly letting the spring pack separate.  

To install the helper spring, all you need to do is to add it to the spring pack, clamp the springs back together, and install the centering pin.  Sometimes a longer centering pin is needed due to the additional thickness of the spring pack.  If this is the case, most auto parts stores have the pins available in various lengths.
 
You should purchase a Chilton's or a Hayne's repair manual for your
vehicle.  They can be purchased at most auto parts stores for, around $20.
They have the information you need, along with basic trouble shooting, and
repairs, including nut sizes and torque settings.  If any special tools
are needed the manuals will list them.  These manuals are designed for a
year or range of years for specific vehicles, and are invaluable if you
are planning on doing any repairs, or maintenance yourself.

You might consider purchasing a few 4x4 magazines, and check out the advertisements for the different lifts.  Then I would contact some of the distributors to check out the cost of lift kits, and find out what components they come with.

Carl