factory suspension for 1/2 ton 2WD suburban
 

I am going to restore the suspension of my 1/2 ton 2WD suburban to factory specs, however, I'd like to put the maximum-capacity factory recommended springs for my truck.

The vehicle is a 1976 GMC C15 suburban with a 454 engine that I plan on towing with.

1976 GM brochures I have show that the rear spring rating for 1/2 ton 2WD suburbans was 2000lb each, while the front coil springs were rated at 1700lbs (454 engine) each. Does anyone know if GM ever used higher capacity springs for the front and/or rear suspension including all the other years of 1/2 ton 2WD suburbans made (1973-1991)?

Re: factory suspension for 1/2 ton 2WD suburban
 

Instead of heavier springs, you might consider installing a set of air springs.

Re: factory suspension for 1/2 ton 2WD suburban
 

Husky Spring lists five different rear leaf spring options for 1976, info HERE. Not sure about the front. New springs will add some ride height back, keep that in mind if you go that route. Helper bags are a good option, you can keep the cush ride you have now and pump up the bags as needed when towing.

Re: factory suspension for 1/2 ton 2WD suburban
 

Thank for your suggestions and help. Leaf springs are not something I regularly change out, however, I'm thinking suburbans have a problem of rear sag over time. I'm considering the springs rated at 2600lb and 2250lb to avoid future rear sag. Since I'd like a factory look, and from my brochures, the only factory spring for 1/2 ton suburbans was 2000lbs, I'm thinking the 2250lb and 2600lb spring would be what I should get.