Looking for info.

[Rock]

This is my first post guys so forgive me if this has been covered by previous post, I have searched through the forum and think I know the answer to my question but want to make sure. I have recently bought a 1978 k20 Cheyenne that is in very good to excellent condition for a 78. I have had old Chevy trucks before and know they do not ride like the late models and don't expect it to, I do however think this particular truck rides pretty rough. Everything on it seems to be original and was wondering if the suspension on this truck is simply worn out. The leaf springs on the back look ok as far as the positive spring rate looks but the front springs are basically flat. Is that normal for the front springs or should they have a curve or spring to them? Also the truck is not level, it is nosing down about 3 inches compared to the rear. I was thinking about putting an add-a-leaf on the front to help raise it up but after I looked at it I am not sure I just don't need to replace the entire spring. Thanks in advance for any answers or suggestions.

 

[89Suburban]

Holy **** is that the truck that @Old77 posted not long ago in the BS on CL thread???

Welcome aboard, she is a beauty!! 3/4 ton trucks usually always have a stiffer ride. Factory front springs on these usually have a flat or negative arch in the front. A new set of 4" lift springs will give you some positive arch and smoother ride with minimal modifications. Do you know how to work on your own stuff?

 

[Old77]

That just might be!! BEAUTIFUL truck!

 

[bucket]

We saw that truck when it was for sale, it looks like you got a nice one. And I must say, it's one of the coolest looking Chevy trucks I've ever seen!

The front springs are supposed to be basically flat, actually a little negative arched. Your stock front springs should have had 3 leaves, so if you have 4, someone has already installed another leaf. Adding one will make it ride a little more rough.


*looks like I was late to the party*

 

[MadOgre]

The factory 3 leaf flat front springs rode pretty smooth IMO. If you want rough you should go for a ride on my front 6" lifted springs. I think all the fexing is done in my spine not the springs lol

 

[Rock]

Thanks guys for the compliments, the previous owners did take really good care of this truck I must say. It only has 3 leafs just like it should and based on your answers they must be in good condition because they are at the least flat and may have a slight negative arch. As for raising the front end just a bit what would be a good solution for that. I am not wanting to do anything drastic, I am trying to keep this truck basically original, just looking for a couple of inches. I can do most of the work myself with a little guidance.

 

[bucket]

You can get two more inches in the front with a pair of ORD "Zero Rates" and a pair of extended shackles. DIY4X also sells an equivalent of both items.

But honestly, a truck that nice deserves a pair of quality 2.5 lift springs. ORD would be the place to get the nicest riding springs I think.

 

[PrairieDrifter]

Check your shock bushings too. The last two Chevys I've bought have rode really rough they both had slopped out shock bushings..pretty bad too. Like a damn rodeo. Don't overlook the little things

 

[Rock]

ok thanks for the input, I feel like I am mechanically inclined to do most work myself but my brain often throws up random road blocks.