Rear springs

[90GMCJim]

I’m getting ready to replace rear axle.

I was told previous owner added a helper spring

Could you please tell me if the 2 lower springs are helper springs or just 1 of them.

Trying to figure it all out

Thank you

 

[BoondocK5]

Looks like you got the 5 leaf pack with the 2nd from the lowest being a “helper”
I have the 5 leaf pack with no helpers. But, I’m after a bit of flex…
Using the same 5 leaf packs on all 4 corners

 

[nvrenuf]

I'd bet the 2nd up from the bottom is an add-a-leaf. I can't tell from the pic but the thickness at the axle plus the shape (rounded or square cut) and thickness (tapered or not) of the end of that spring is likely different from the rest. The bottom spring looks like a typical GM overload spring.

 

[sweetk30]

#5 from top down 1 up from factory overload is most definitely aftermarket STIFF RIDING add-a-leaf .

i would do a 22-579 part # if you wanted to upgrade and get new packs but have less rear sag . and if to tall pull 1 leaf per side from the bottom area .

and by the looks them u-bolts are to short for the current combo need some threads showing up past the top of the nuts .

 

[90GMCJim]

#5 from top down 1 up from factory overload is most definitely aftermarket STIFF RIDING add-a-leaf .

i would do a 22-579 part # if you wanted to upgrade and get new packs but have less rear sag . and if to tall pull 1 leaf per side from the bottom area .

and by the looks them u-bolts are to short for the current combo need some threads showing up past the top of the nuts .

I’m finishing up my 14 bolt SF axle. My new plates and U-bolts arrive tomorrow

I wanted to remove what isn’t factory so I can drive and around and see how the suspension feels stock.

Previous owner said he added because when towing the rear sagged.

I like the stance so I wonder how much it will move with removing the leaf.

Starting from the axle up. The first leaf is factory? The 2nd leaf is the aftermarket helper? The 4 thinner plates are the original leaf pack?

Thanks

 

[nvrenuf]

Starting from the axle up. The first leaf is factory? The 2nd leaf is the aftermarket helper? The 4 thinner plates are the original leaf pack?

YEs, the very bottom spring + the top 4 are most likely original springs. I noticed the thin spacers and I've never seen those on a square body, usually if there's anything between the springs it's a thin (maybe 1/32") plastic piece that acts as an anti-squeak pad.

Most add-a-leafs are good for 1-1/2" to 2" of lift so I'd expect the rear to drop at least an inch if not more. It's also common for Blazers to sag a little in the rear. If it drops too much but you like the ride quality you can install a Zero Rate from Offroad Design to gain an inch back.

Are those springs original and / or original length? The clamp at the right side edge of the pic looks like something from a newer truck.

 

[sweetk30]

Going by his screen name he has a 90 model . There the start of the metric stuff and thin spacer plates yes .

As said will drop a bit but will ride softer . If you like the ride and just want 1" extra lift later . A set of zero rates will do a good job in the back and not change ride .