Is It Easy To Install Leaf Springs?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Leaf are an integral part of a vehicle's suspension system. They are

relatively easy to replace on your own after you raise the vehicle up with

a floor jack. A few bolts fasten the springs to the brackets underneath the car.

How long does it take to install leaf springs?

If your leaf spring bolts are rusted, or you break a weld nut inside the uni-body, it can take anywhere from

one hour to one day

to change a leaf spring, depending on your available tools, mechanic skills, and previous experience changing Cherokee leaf springs.

How much does it cost to install leaf springs?

How Much Do New Leaf Springs Cost? The average cost to replace leaf springs ranges from $450 to $790 if you hire a professional. These estimates include the cost of labor in addition to the springs and parts. The cost of the installation alone could range from

$95 to $170

depending on where you go.

How much does it cost to install rear springs?

The actual price will vary depending on your vehicle, location, type of spring replaced and whether you need additional services. Labor costs typically

range between $133 and $168

, while you may spend $217 to $254 for the parts.

How much does it cost to fix a broken leaf spring?

Broken Spring Leaves

Repair costs range from

$80 to $200 per spring

, depending on your vehicle and whether you bring in just your springs or have us do the work on your vehicle for you.

Do you need an alignment after replacing leaf springs?


If you lifted both ends, you should get it aligned

. If you're just replacing warn out springs, you're probably fine without it.

Do leaf springs wear out over time?


Leaf springs are subject to wear and tear over the course of several years

, largely because of the various moving parts that comprise the springs. Leaf springs can also start to lag from prolonged periods of uneven weight distributions from within a vehicle.

Are leaf springs better than coil?

Leaf springs are

better for heavier vehicles

and those who may need to haul more weight. They're also simpler but less adjustable than coil springs. Coil spring suspension systems are better for performance driving as you can fine-tune your suspension. They offer greater comfort and flexibility for improved handling.

Can you drive with a broken leaf spring shackle?

Can I Drive With a Broken Leaf Spring? Technically,

you can drive a truck with a broken

leaf spring, but that doesn't mean you should. … Driving a truck with a broken middle leaf could render your vehicle unstable, but not too dangerous, provided you limit your driving to the nearest, safest places.

How do I know if my leaf springs are worn out?

  1. Squeaky sounds while your truck is in motion.
  2. Slouching on one side.
  3. Sagging in the back.
  4. Diminished handling.
  5. Trouble hauling and towing loads.
  6. Suspension bottoming out.
  7. Cracks on leaves.

Can I buy just one leaf spring?

Depending on the make and model of the truck and the number of leaves on a spring, a single leaf spring will generally cost anywhere

from $69.99 to $149.99

. Therefore, at the lower-priced end of the spectrum, a new pair of leaf springs could cost you roughly $139.98.

How long does it take to replace rear coil springs?

But, if you know what you're doing, you should be able to do it in


(from the time you pull the car into the garage until you pull it out). The fronts will take the longest, and the rears can be done in about 15-30 minutes per side, or less.

Should you oil leaf springs?

The springs should be kept fairly

clean

in order to extend their useful life. … Modern leaf springs do not need lubricating with oil — which may damage any anti-friction material between leaves. Spray them instead with a silicone-based lubricant.

Can you remove one leaf spring?


You can remove all but the main one if you want

, but you'll get less desirable results, including axle wrap, twisting of the leaf springs and excessive drop. Typically, you want to remove the overload leaf or the middle leaf in the pack.

Does re arching leaf springs work?

Re-arching a leaf spring can be

done by “cold” or “hot” methods

. When a spring is re-arched, the leaves are returned to the original shape. Some people say re-arching springs doesn't work well. … If the spring steel hasn't lost its “temper,” it can probably be re-arched.

Can broken leaf springs be welded?

As we stated earlier,

it is not recommended that you attempt to weld a broken leaf spring

. The biggest factor is that heat generated during welding can weaken the tensile strength of the steel. While welding can be performed in some instances, most mechanics will recommend against it.

Rachel Ostrander
Author
Rachel Ostrander
Rachel is a career coach and HR consultant with over 5 years of experience working with job seekers and employers. She holds a degree in human resources management and has worked with leading companies such as Google and Amazon. Rachel is passionate about helping people find fulfilling careers and providing practical advice for navigating the job market.