: I have a 31 Model A coupe. I noticed that the rear bumper
: is closer to the ground than other 31 coupes. I believe the
: problem is that the rear spring is worn out.: My questions are : Is replacing the spring the best fix? : Are the replacment springs of good quality? : Can somone suggest a good place to purchase a new spring : I have the "Model A Shop Manual" which shows how to
: replace the spring and I beleive I understand how to
: do it but is this a very difficult job? : What other components should be replaced with the spring? : Should the spring be greased before installing in the car? : Thanks for your help : Tim Tim,
1. Depends on if the springs is damaged or is badly worn. It may have a broken leaf. Also be sure it is the right spring for the car. Different cars had different number of leafs in the rear spring.
2. I don't have any knowledge on replacement springs. I have found mine at swap meets or thru other Model A'ers who have parts cars or chassis from farm wagons etc. Bratton's has good quality parts and his are U.S.A. made.
3. Walt Bratton has new springs both 10 leaf and 8 leaf for the rear. See the URL below for his address.
4. It is not real difficult. However, it is considerably easier if you have a spring spreader to keep the spring while you remove the shackles. There are instructions in the "How to Restore Your Model A" from MAFCA for making a spreader. I made one out of mostly scrap metal and new nuts and all thread. Then find a welder who can put it together.
5. The shackles and bushings should be replaced as well as inspecting the axle perches to see if they are worn thru the bushings and into the perch itself. Also look at the spring U-bolts that hold it to the frame to see if they are worn. Check the frame itself to see if there are any cracks in the area around the spring mounting.
6. I put a light coating of graphite based grease in between the leaves when I took mine apart, but it is not mandatory as there isn't a way to do this on a regular basis. And if you buy new springs, I wouldn't take them apart to lube them. Taking springs apart is risky as they are under considerable compression when assembled. I also have spring covers on mine which keep out the large amounts of mud, etc that accumulate on the underside of touring cars from time to time.
John
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