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New Leaf Springs Sit Weird ??

Discussion in '1st Gen. Tacomas (1995-2004)' started by onebigtrip, Oct 13, 2017.

  1. Oct 13, 2017 at 8:12 PM
    #1
    onebigtrip

    onebigtrip [OP] New Member

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    Hey guys, I just installed some new rear leaf springs and shocks today on my 1996 Tacoma 4x4. Did it myself with the help of a friend. Everything seems fine, and the truck rides nicely but for some reason I find it curious that the leaf springs are not in the normal U-shape when the truck is in it's normal resting position. I could be totally wrong, (and probably am considering I have limited mechanical knowledge) but I feel like most leaf springs I've seen have a nice U-Shape and hold the frame up. As you can see in the photos, the new leaf springs are almost bent down, past the point of equilibrium (where the springs are attached to the axle with the U bolts). Is this normal?? The springs are Doorman, supposedly OEM, 3 leaf (instead of 2 thicker leafs that were original on the truck). The photo is kind of at an angle so its a bit hard to make out. Anyway I just wanted to double check because this seemed odd to me. Should I have purchased heavier duty leaf springs for light off-roading?? (lots of camping and whatnot in the summers) Any observations appreciated!!


    Link to springs product page:

    https://www.partsgeek.com/x699bl9-t...k+ShopZilla&fp=pp&utm_term=Toyota+Leaf+Spring

    Photo Oct 13, 3 03 38 PM.jpg
    Photo Oct 13, 3 03 21 PM.jpg
    Photo Oct 12, 9 42 41 PM.jpg
    Photo Oct 12, 8 32 25 PM.jpg
     
  2. Oct 13, 2017 at 8:15 PM
    #2
    Matic

    Matic The "OFG" Baby!!!

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    1 owner 2002 TRD, SR5, DC, 2.7. Full OME suspension, STT pro's.
    OME 881 coils with OME nitrochargers shocks up front. TC UCA's OME Dakars with extra leaf in the rear. Warn 8000 winch with 80ft custom braided synth line. Custom 60ft synth extension. All pro tube bumper, Hi-lift jack, Safari Snorkel, Wilco tiregate. 2019 Jeep JLUR.
    I mean as an oe replacement, they do flatten out quite a bit.....but those look dead flat. Is their any arch to them at all?
     
  3. Oct 13, 2017 at 8:18 PM
    #3
    smmarine

    smmarine Well-Known Member

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    Looks like what springs from the factory look like. The OEM springs on our trucks are pathetic. It’s been a well known issue since 1995.5
     
    vern650 and tcjacado like this.
  4. Oct 13, 2017 at 8:19 PM
    #4
    License2Ill

    License2Ill Woke like a Coma Toyota Tacoma

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    It's a dry heat thou, AZ
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    Yeahhh. I'd reinstall your old leafs, and send those back. That's inexcusable. Dorman isn't known for quality nor vigor. I'd recommend Dakars or devers (sp?).
     
  5. Oct 13, 2017 at 8:22 PM
    #5
    drr

    drr Primary Prognosticator

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    Could also get like a 3 leaf progressive AAL from Wheeler's Offroad to help those out. Stock leafs pretty much suck for anything but an empty bed - even just a canopy will max those things out, as you've seen.
     
  6. Oct 13, 2017 at 8:29 PM
    #6
    ghs57

    ghs57 Well-Known Member

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    Pretty much stock right now
    Those old leafs were in rough shape.

    You will hear both opinions here. Some are going to say you should have a smile, and some will say this is normal. How's it ride? Good? then don't worry about it.
     
    Last edited: Oct 14, 2017
    tcjacado likes this.
  7. Oct 13, 2017 at 8:34 PM
    #7
    tcjacado

    tcjacado Well-Known Member

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    They look fine, you do carry the extra weight of the shell and I am pretty sure that bed isn't empty.
     
  8. Oct 13, 2017 at 9:35 PM
    #8
    islanti

    islanti Well-Known Member

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    That looks normal. stock leafs sit fairly flat if not negative.
     
  9. Oct 14, 2017 at 8:24 AM
    #9
    GEENYUSS

    GEENYUSS Well-Known Member

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    Should have went w a hd spring.
     
  10. Oct 14, 2017 at 8:36 AM
    #10
    devinzz1

    devinzz1 Well-Known Member

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    he has a cap too which accounts for something. i ran the same dormans with an aal and they were fine.
     
  11. Oct 14, 2017 at 1:00 PM
    #11
    beez

    beez Well-Known Member

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    Yea that is normal for OEM rate springs on your truck with the added weight of the shell.

    I recently replaced my springs as they were shot. I have a shell and tools in the back at all times, so I went with the Dakars, and they still sit almost flat.

    I would have went with an HD spring setup. But since you already have the new springs, why not just add an AAL?
     

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