Trying to unravel a mystery. I have a 68 Firebird convertible. I believe the motor is a 350 but have not confirmed this. I am working on the rear end, specifically getting ready to replace the rear springs.
First off, it appears there is a "bow shaped" extra spring added to the bottom of my springs on both sides. I am assuming this is some kind of add on that someone has stuck on and is not a "factory" installation. Anyone have any thoughts?
Also, referencing the "facing front" pic and ignoring the "bow shaped" spring mentioned above, it appears I have 5 leaves in my springs. However, referencing the "facing back" pic and again ignoring the "bow shaped" spring, it appears I have only 4 leaves in my springs. The fifth leaf ends just after the saddle. This is the same on both sides of the car. Any thoughts or information would be greatly appreciated.
You are correct. Those are spring 'helpers' that were used to add some height to sagging stock springs. Back in the day new springs were pretty pricey so those 'helpers' were a cheap alternative. I used them myself on my 1968 hardtop. I am surprised a set survived this long. They are still available in various forms. Another item commonly used was the little aluminum, 'knuckles' that you twisted into the front coil springs to get some height back. Band aids for sure but they worked.
