Should coil springs ever be replaced on general principles?

[robroy]

Hello!

I have easy access to the front coil springs on my '72 F250 currently, and I'm considering replacing them, but I'm not sure how important this is.

These springs are undoubtedly original and the truck has plenty of miles on it.

Does anything happen to springs over such a long period of time to warrant replacement on general principles, or should they only be replaced if there's a specific problem with them?

Thanks very much!
-Robroy

[RTG_RACING]

I think they do. Over time I think the rate of the spring changes. I think thats what makes it roll bad going into corners. Plus they begin to sag a bit.

[fitzwell]

ride height. If it changes it affects the front end geometry. That being said, if the truck has a bunch of miles & this is something you really want to do, go for it. Remember when you install new springs, drive it around for a couple of days & let the new springs settle in a bit before you take it to the alignment shop.

[jengle]

The do sag and lose their strength as time goes on. I replaced mine recently with some from rockauto.com and the truck now sits level, the alignment is better and it handles better.

[robroy]

Thanks very much for the advice! It sounds like it would be a good idea to replace them. My truck always sagged a lot in the front, but I've seen so many '67-'72 Fords with that appearance that I thought it was factory spec!

It looks like rockauto.com has a good selection of different springs for the truck; which ones did you pick out?

Also, does anybody have any other suggestions on where to look for springs? I'm looking for the best quality springs I can buy, since they'll be in there for a while.

Thanks again folks,
-Robroy

[1971ford]

Thanks very much for the advice! It sounds like it would be a good idea to replace them. My truck always sagged a lot in the front, but I've seen so many '67-'72 Fords with that appearance that I thought it was factory spec!

-Robroy

well these trucks should sit higher in the rear from the factory. its not the front sagging on these trucks from the factory, its the "lifted" rearend for more payload

[robroy]

Ah-ha, thanks for the clarification Ryan.

-Robroy