I have replaced the front springs (Eaton) and was about to order Edelbrock IAS shocks to replace the $24 shocks for the front when I took a couple of friends to lunch in my 68 Firebird. The results were interesting, as it is the first time I'd ever had anyone sit in the back seat. Whenever I would push the gas pedal 1/2 way down, the back would bottom out. So, I have swapped my focus from front shocks as top priority to rear leaf springs. I have a few questions...
With the new leaf springs, how will I know f I need new shackles?
These are the leaf springs I am looking at. Are they recommended? http://www.paddockparts.com/Paddock/productr.asp?pf%5Fid=ML252S&gift=False&0=dept%2Easp%2Cdept%5Fid%3D10%26menu%5Fid%3D%26Tree%3D%2CFirebird&1=dept%2Easp%2Cdept%5Fid%3D356%26menu%5Fid%3D%26Tree%3D0%2CFirebird%20Suspension&2=product%5Ffamily%2Easp%2Cfamily%5Fid%3D2073%26Tree%3D1%2C67%2D81%20Camaro%20%26%20Firebird%20Leaf%20Springs&HSLB=False&mscssid=001144E8F794C8441EBB84D9CCD5485B
(The link does not appear as I'd hoped above. Here's the Paddock part number: ML252S)
What other considerations should I take into account when dealing with leaf spring replacements? I've never replaced them, and want to make sure I get all the right parts.
Great looking car. I would buy a complete hardware kit along with all new bushings. The shackles more than likely will be fine to reuse. The only reason I would think to replace them is because of age (rust). I'm not sure how the front leafs mount as I have not replaced mine yet. If there anything like my 77 you will want to make sure to buy the j clips that the bolts mount the front bracket to the frame/body. This will also be a good time to replace the u-bolts that hold the axle to the leafs. I drilled mine out and put the next larger size in due to the added horsepower. Good Luck and watch your knuckles.
