stock spring un-bound length?

[manoa matt]

I just finished my frame rail/cross member fix and was about to put the front stock springs back in when I decided to measure them. Here is a picture of how I measured the length from end to end: [img]http://www.flickr.com/photos/bigtimes_f ... 0/sizes/o/[/img] One spring measured an even 14" from end to end, the other measured between14 1/4" and 14 3/16"

http://www.flickr.com/photos/bigtimes_f ... 0/sizes/o/

I compared these measurements against some stock springs I recently took off a 76 parts car. Same results, one spring at an even 14" the other measured between 14 1/4" and 14 3/16"

Two questions: Is that 1/4" to 3/16" going to make a bid difference, should I install my original springs at two different lengths? and how or why would the parts car have the same spring lengths?

I'm assuming I should install the longer springs, that means I'll need to clean up and paint the other spring from the 76 and my daily driver will be out another few days, but I guess thats better than abnormal tire wear.

Any thoughts?

[So Cal Mark]

it's pretty typical for the left spring to sag more than the right, since the driver weight is always in the car. I can't imagine 3/16 of an inch would make any difference. Free length isn't as important as compressed length. Measure the height of the car on both sides with the springs installed, that's when any alignment issues will arise

[manoa matt]

You are right, the driver's side is the shorter one. Should I switch them and install the longer one on the driver's side now?

[So Cal Mark]

sounds like a good idea to me. Then go on a strict diet so you don't collapse the left one again! lol

[manoa matt]

I guess I'll have to cut back on the spam and white rice. Oh, how I hate fighting to get the front springs back in, they are so easy to get out.