Single leaf spring centers

[Fozzy48]

Is there a difference from one end of the spring centers to the other. The reason I ask is I am looking to get my tramp bar brackets welded on to the axle within the next day or 2. I did a dry run fitting the axle into the spring brackets. When I lifted the axle up and took the weight of the car, the tramp bar brackets were at different angle. Now as you will know there is very little movement (if any) once the axle is centered onto the center pin on the leaf spring. So this is why I ask, is it possible that one of the springs have been put on the wrong way round, therefore the axle when clamped up sits slightly further forwards or back.

Cheers. 

Fozzy

[katana]

Yes the springs are assymetric - different front to back

[Fozzy48]

Just now, katana said:

Yes the springs are assymetric - different front to back

Thanks mate. I would go and check on my car but it's kept at the outlaws so not convenient until tomorrow.  I have since seen a pic of a pair but the distances would be greater than that for which my tramp brackets are angled at. If you know what I mean. You can see the difference in how the brackets will be angled if welded into this position. The o/s side of the axle seems to be about 1" further back than n/s.

 Fozzy

[katana]

I'd say deffo something wrong there - 2nd pic axle should be moved to the right, this would make tramp bar bracket more upright - reasoning is the 'bump stop' between the U bolts should bump against the chassis bracket above it - if the rubber was present of course! I may have some pic's when I swopped the springs on my RS, i'll post them if I find them.

[Fozzy48]

49 minutes ago, katana said:

I'd say deffo something wrong there - 2nd pic axle should be moved to the right, this would make tramp bar bracket more upright - reasoning is the 'bump stop' between the U bolts should bump against the chassis bracket above it - if the rubber was present of course! I may have some pic's when I swopped the springs on my RS, i'll post them if I find them.

Yes mate, you are spot on. This is making me wonder IF the O/S spring has been put on wrong way. My mate has suggested it may be the bushes in the leaf springs that have play but the initial measurements that I am getting suggest about 1" out. I doubt very much that bushes would make 1" difference. Unless it's a build up of other bushes need replacing.

Thanks buddy.

Fozzy

[Fozzy48]

Think I've sussed it. When I put the axle on for a dry run I attached the prop onto it then lifted the car as if at driving height. As you will know the diff is offset to the drivers side. As the diff on this capri axle is slightly longer than the escort I believe the prop is up to its limit in the gearbox. This means that the prop is pushing back in favour of the drivers side. Just a few more checks to do then I'm gonna try it tomorrow.

Cheers.

Fozzy