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Old 09-28-2015, 12:28 PM   #1
tev
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Leaf spring upgrade for 72 GMC 3/4 ton 4x4 with HD springs

Yep, another spring question.

I've got a 72 GMC 2500 4x4 with a build sheet including heavy duty springs front and rear. Here's my original post:

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=676947

I use the truck for some hauling - mostly soil for my own yard projects. I think the rear springs are tired so I'm considering an upgrade.

Can someone tell me whether this truck has the original spring setup?

Here are some pics of the truck as I bought it, with 29.5" tires and then the new setup with 33s. You can see the original stance and then with 1/2 yard of decomp granite. To me, a 3/4 ton 4x4 with factory HD springs should not sit that low with only a 1/2 yard. I'd like to lift the rear a bit but don't want a crazy rake. Prefer 1-2" instead of 2"+.

So I'm looking at three different options from SDTruckSprings:

Skyjacker R225 is supposed to add 800 lb capacity and still be progressive:
http://www.sdtrucksprings.com/index....ducts_id=31363

Skyjacker softride, R1120, I think this one is progressive:
http://www.sdtrucksprings.com/index....ducts_id=31355

Tuff Country 81250 adds 700 lbs capacity and 2" also, but not progressive:
http://www.sdtrucksprings.com/index....oducts_id=6310

Procomp 13122, adds 700 lbs capacity and 1.5" to 2.5":
http://www.sdtrucksprings.com/index....ducts_id=31456

I'd like to keep the truck as original as possible, but still functional as a hauler. Any advice or comments are appreciated.

Pics:

https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/f...2k1SkRrQlhqRnc
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Last edited by tev; 09-28-2015 at 12:34 PM.
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Old 09-28-2015, 12:42 PM   #2
harrisoncole4
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Re: Leaf spring upgrade for 72 GMC 3/4 ton 4x4 with HD springs

If you're looking to add hauling capacity but want the stock height, you should consider helper air bags. Deflate for stock look, inflate for a full load
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Old 09-28-2015, 05:33 PM   #3
tev
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Re: Leaf spring upgrade for 72 GMC 3/4 ton 4x4 with HD springs

Thanks. Others have suggested this option, but at this point I'd prefer to stay as original as possible.

I might just replace the spring sets altogether. Just not sure if it'll be the same as the factory HD springs. This seems like the best deal:

http://www.sdtrucksprings.com/index....oducts_id=7348
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Old 09-28-2015, 10:21 PM   #4
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Re: Leaf spring upgrade for 72 GMC 3/4 ton 4x4 with HD springs

I'd see if you've got a local spring shop. They should be able to make you hd springs at the factory ride height with out much issue.
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Old 09-29-2015, 07:31 AM   #5
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Re: Leaf spring upgrade for 72 GMC 3/4 ton 4x4 with HD springs

Your local spring shop can refurbish your original springs.
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Old 09-29-2015, 11:27 AM   #6
tev
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Re: Leaf spring upgrade for 72 GMC 3/4 ton 4x4 with HD springs

Thanks. Looking into that right now.
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Old 10-05-2015, 06:01 PM   #7
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Re: Leaf spring upgrade for 72 GMC 3/4 ton 4x4 with HD springs

Local spring shop wasn't much help in making a decision whether to re-arch current springs or just replace them. I'm considering a new spring pack and have two choices of manufacturer:

1. Universal Group (also called UCS)
2. Stanley Spring

Any advice? Also, does the rear look low to anyone in the second driveway shot? It just seems low to me.

Thanks for any help.
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Old 10-05-2015, 09:39 PM   #8
oldertruckfan
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Re: Leaf spring upgrade for 72 GMC 3/4 ton 4x4 with HD springs

1st consider where you put a 1/2 ton of dirt in the bed. I can squat my 1 ton by putting a bucket full on the tail of the truck. I really don't think you have an issue with your springs. they look like they're doing their job. if you do want to spend the money though, you might look at adding a leaf or 2 while you're getting them re-arched
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Old 10-05-2015, 09:43 PM   #9
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Re: Leaf spring upgrade for 72 GMC 3/4 ton 4x4 with HD springs

check this page out from a local Kansas city leaf spring shop http://www.generalspringkc.com/Leaf_...972_s/1828.htm
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Old 10-05-2015, 10:24 PM   #10
68panelman
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Re: Leaf spring upgrade for 72 GMC 3/4 ton 4x4 with HD springs

Your truck is beautiful, put less in the bed and get a dump trailer, they can be trashed, your truck shoud be respected
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