Answers to the questions we are asked most often about leaf springs. Can’t find what you need? Call us on 01746 389896 or send us an enquiry.
A leaf spring is a simple, strong type of suspension made from one or more curved strips of spring steel (the “leaves”). It is bolted to the axle with U-bolts and fixed to the chassis at each end. As well as carrying the weight of the vehicle and its load, it helps locate the axle. Leaf springs are used on the rear of most vans and pick ups, on Land Rover Series vehicles, and on many buses, trucks and trailers.
A multi-leaf (conventional) spring has several flat leaves of the same thickness stacked on top of each other. It is very strong and copes well with heavy loads, but the leaves rub together, which can give a firmer ride.
A parabolic spring uses fewer leaves that are thick in the middle and taper towards the ends. The leaves only touch at the centre and ends, so there is less friction. That usually means a lighter spring and a smoother, more comfortable ride. Parabolic springs are popular on Land Rovers and other 4x4s. See our Land Rover parabolic springs.
Standard springs are made to match the vehicle’s original springs, giving the ride height and ride quality the manufacturer intended.
Uprated (heavy duty) springs are stiffer, so the vehicle sags less when it is loaded. They suit vans and pick ups that regularly carry heavy loads, tow, or carry fixed equipment such as racking or tool storage. We supply both for our van and pick up ranges.
A DIY up-rate kit is designed to give extra load support to a van’s existing single leaf springs, without replacing the whole spring. It is a cost effective option for vans that work hard but don’t need a complete new set of springs. See our DIY up-rate kits, or call us to check which kit suits your van.
Common signs include:
If you notice any of these, have the suspension checked by a qualified mechanic.
There is no fixed lifespan. On a car or lightly used vehicle, leaf springs can last many years. On vans and pick ups that are regularly loaded to their limit, used on rough roads, or exposed to road salt, they can wear out much sooner. Springs gradually lose their height (sag) over time, so check the ride height and look for cracks or corrosion when the vehicle is serviced.
It is not recommended. A broken leaf spring can affect steering, braking and how the vehicle carries its load. In some cases the axle can move out of position. If you think a spring is broken, avoid carrying loads and have the vehicle inspected and repaired as soon as possible.
Yes. Suspension springs are checked during the MOT, and a fractured or broken spring leaf is a reason for failure. Badly corroded springs or worn spring mountings can also cause a failure.
Yes, we recommend replacing springs in pairs (both sides of the same axle). A new spring will sit at a different height and behave differently from a worn one on the other side, which can leave the vehicle leaning and affect handling.
It is generally recommended. U-bolts stretch when they are tightened, so re-using old ones may mean they don’t hold the spring as securely. Fitting new U-bolts with new springs is good practice. Always tighten them to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended torque.
Technically, yes – your van will be able to carry more weight when you uprate the leaf springs. However, they do not change the legal maximum weight you can carry.
Uprated springs are stiffer, so the ride is usually firmer when the vehicle is empty. When it is loaded, the ride is often better, because the suspension is no longer working at its limit. If your vehicle is often driven empty, call us and we can help you choose the right option.
Choose your vehicle from the Van Springs, Pick Up Springs or Land Rover pages to see the springs we list for it, with our part numbers. If you are not sure, call us on 01746 389896 with your vehicle’s make, model and year. If you can, also have the number of leaves and any part number stamped on your existing springs.
Click Buy Now next to a part to order online from Sanderson Leaf Springs, our authorised stockist. Or order direct by calling us on 01746 389896 or emailing sales@gbsprings.co.uk. See How to buy for our terms and conditions.
We try our very best to send all orders on the same working day. Free next day delivery is available to UK mainland addresses on orders placed before 2pm. Because springs are large, they are sent by palletised freight. Collection from our warehouse in Bridgnorth is possible with prior agreement.
Yes. Please contact us for a delivery quote. Extra shipping charges apply for deliveries outside the UK mainland, including overseas.
Yes, please contact us to arrange your return and we will discuss return options with you. You will need your invoice number. See our returns terms.
Yes. We supply fleet operators, and you can open an account with us. See Fleet Solutions. We also supply bus and coach springs for UK operators; see OEM.
This information is general guidance. Always follow the vehicle manufacturer’s instructions, and have suspension work carried out or checked by a qualified mechanic.
If you have a question or can't find the part you need, our sales team is happy to help.