Is It Time For New Leaf Springs?
There’s nothing worse than your van or trailer breaking down because you need new leaf springs. If you regularly carry heavy loads, then there’s a chance your springs are suffering intense pressure even when they are within their load capacity. Regularly checking your vans and trailers springs will help to prevent and unexpected breakdown.
For any type of vehicle towing heavy loads, it’s important to replace your springs regularly to ensure they are kept healthy all year around. Whilst leaf springs can easily be overlooked, it’s important to regularly check them and they should be at the tope of your to-do list.
Whether you’re an individual or business, it’s important to add spring checks to your regular maintenance check list. If you don’t have experience in mechanics then it’s advisable to have your springs installed by trained and experienced professional to ensure they are check correctly.
How Do I Check The Springs?
Leaf springs are typically found at the front or back of the vehicle. They are either attached to the bottom or top axle of cars, trucks, vans and SUVs. The springs are bow shaped and will have narrow pieces of steel stacked on top of each other. Having the part designed this way helps to absorb gravity of any excess weight. Whilst new springs will typically have a black finish, the ones on your vehicles are likely to appear dirty and sometimes even rusty.
Some of the main things to look for to help you identify if you need to replace your leaf springs are:
- Cracks – Upon first look the springs might seem dirty or rusty, however cleaning this will help to reveal any damage that might have occurred. Springs will show visible cracks, broken or missing pieces meaning you’ll know when damage has occurred. If your springs are missing pieces or show any sign of cracking then it’s important you replace them as soon as possible.
- Swaying – Swaying can be difficult to identify, however if you find your vehicle is particularly bouncy and swaying when you hit a bump, then you check if the springs have come worn. The purpose of a leaf spring is to absorb bounce and sway caused by uneven surfaces. Whilst there is a chance the swaying or bouncing can be caused by other issues, if the spring is causing it then you will need to consider purchasing a replacement.
- Load Capacity – You might think your vehicle is managing fine with heavy loads, however a visual inspection is easy to carry out and check. Simply look at how the vehicle balances and if there’s any sag when the load is placed on or off it, then there could be a problem with the springs.
Where Do I Buy Replacement Springs From?
Sanderson Leaf Springs are one of the leading manufacturers of leaf springs in the UK. All of our springs are manufactured using quality materials and meet current specifications. Browse our range online or get in touch today.
