Packard Forum Index » Pre-War (1899-1942)

I discovered that the main leaf of my front spring is broken. I can provide dimensions if there are any originals available out there...please let me know if you have one. Or are there any shops out there that make leaf springs?

Thanks!
Brian

I have not had springs cut for a Packard, but other makes. It was a simple matter of taking the broken leaf to a spring shop and having it duplicated. They can even do the main springs with the eyes if need be. Trucks break springs as a matter of course and all need to be replaced in order to meet standards so they can help you out.
Bob J.

I believe Eaton Detroit Springs can make you a new main leaf spring.

I would replace both main leaves to keep the car sitting level. Detroit Spring can make new ones.

Eaton Springs in Detroit can do them. They may even have the blue prints...

Eaton did a great job for me. They would need both springs to get them to be equal. Unfortunately they did not have specs for my 32 but it sits level now so totally satisfied with their work. Not really expensive either in my opinion.

Thanks everyone for the help! I believe I have a solution identified.

Be sure to check your service manual for spring load capacity if you are having someone make you a new leaf. I use Dever Spring in Santa Ana CA.

MY 640 manual states:

Front springs All types: Right 1050 lbs
Left 975 lbs
Rear springs range from 1100-1400 lbs. depending on the body type.

Final Note: Techincal Letter # 1862 Dated 1/2/1929 reveals a change in the design of the front spring to enhace ride quality. An entire paragragh, "The new springs can be distiquished by tapered ends.. plus no more auxilary main leaf which extended from the center to the rear over the rear eye... in the new design the rear end of the second leaf curles around the spring eye from underneath."

I have made it my practice to read the Packard techincal letters before I enbark on some aspect of the restoration process.

Good luck!

Thanks! I've been told that the weight number is also stamped on the spring, underneath the axle mounting. So I'll compare that to the service manual after I get it apart.

One challenge will be to support the car while pulling the spring...is under the frame, directly behind the spring the best place?

Interesting find in the service letters. I'll download them next!