Hey Everyone,

After putting a little over 20K miles on my FordnBenz conversion, I have noticed that the front springs have softened and my tires are wearing on the inside edge. When I stand back I can see the front tires now tilt in slightly at the top. It was not that way in the beginning. It has happened gradually over time I believe due to the increased weight of the OM617 MB engine.

Can anyone tell me what springs I will be able to use on my truck? It is a 2WD, 1990 Ford Ranger, XLT, extended cab. The coil springs on it are original as far as I can tell. Would a spring from an Explorer work, or perhaps an older F150?

Thanks for your help.

Rick Olson

 

I bet Rangmar has some ideas.

 

I would also check your axle pivot bushings assuming its twin I beam, the ranger setup is similar to the full size and if those wear it allows the inboard endnofnthe axle to drop which will cause negative camber.

 

I had an F150 do that when I put "heavy duty" springs under it, in the opposite direction. It raised the front end about 1.5 inches and put an outward lean on the top of the tires. They had a alignment cam kit for them, basically a couple of bushings with more offset than stock, that corrects it if you don't mind the ride / ride height.

A call to these guys might be worth it - EATON Detroit Spring - The leading manufacturer of leaf and coil springs for the street rod and restoration industries they offer longer springs in the same spring rate or stiffer springs with the same height. Rockauto.com also shows a few different spring rates/heights for the Rangers at a pretty low price for a pair (63.00)

 

Thank you for the input. I will check out Rock Auto. I have purchased other items from them in the past. I admit I know very little about suspension systems. I didn't realize I could find the heavier rated springs made for my Ranger. That makes it easier than I thought.

Thanks again.

Rick