Leaf springs.

[Rich Thomas]

I have been contemplating getting the rear leaf springs re arched. My camper sets lower in the back than front. I think it is from sagging leaf springs, the front end sets higher than the rear by quite a bit. I know big rigs have this done from time to time and I thought I would ask here if any one has or, if you know what is involved.

[david craft]

havent done it rich, but i use to just do air bags. then you can compensate for the "wet" side with more air. if i were to do it, i would weigh the rear and measure the compressed spring heighth. find a reputable spring guy and give him that info with the new heigth you would like. but, it would probably be advisable to consult the spring guy first. good luck with the outcome bro.

[Rick Faunce]

Rearched springs will work for a while but they will sag again. They will not hold anywhere near as long as the originals. For what it costs to have them removed, arched and replaced it is worth it to just have them replaced with new springs. Get it weighed in full camping trim and take that weight to the spring shop. Just keep in mind that if you are overweight they may inform you that they will not be liable if they make you springs to level it and something breaks. Overweight is overweight and nobody want to get blamed for problems attached to it.

[Rich Thomas]

Thanks for the reply Rick and Dave, I don't think I would have an over weight problem; at least not while traveling. I always empty the tanks before I hit the road. I was out a while back and saw a sign for a spring shop and it lit a spark. The Palace is a one ton chassis with a Dana 70 rear end and I have never counted the springs but, it is pretty hefty. The old girl rides fine and handles good. I just noticed it set lower in the rear. while setting in the garage. I do have the tranny and front drive shaft laying out on the floor but at 150 pounds I don;t think that's enough to make a difference. I guess I'll research air bags. I remember someone putting them on their Alegro (I think) a while back. Any way thanks for the reply's Guy's 

[david craft]

ride rite use to be the bomb, but they are prolly china made now. i got some super springs. a couple sizes. made for heavy pickups but they may give the relief you seek. they are new and im closing down the business. you would need at least 5 inches clearance to the bottom of the coach above the leaf stack. you can have them. maybe if you get time you can research them and find what size might work. ill see if I can get the sizes i have. they are a super easy install. a long leaf that runs above you stack.

[Rich Thomas]

David, thanks for your offer it is very generous , I looked on super springs web site and did not find an application for a 78 G 30 van, they had one for the 10 and 20 and the P-20/30  I'm not sure why they don't list the G-30.  I did however find an application for the Ride Rite air Suspension that I think will work.They are still made here in the states by Firestone and have a couple nice options like splitting the circuit so each side is independent. That would be great for leveling at the camp site. Thanks again for the offer and the lead on the air bags.