79 BJ40 Suspension

[Narrowscopeofreality]

Hey all. My question goes out to all those with 40# cruiser suspension mods.

NOTE: I haven't mentioned the brand, not sure of legalities. (Not that i'm bagging them). Let's say they are very reputable springs.

I currently have a brand new set of 2" springs on my 40, the fronts are front FJ55 springs (so the same length as standard 40 springs), and the rears are 1" longer than the standard 40's.

Having the same length (or near enough) as standard, just a higher arch, is obviously not suitable.

After spending HOURS reading (yes, the dreaded search button) i've come up with some possible remedies, just wanted some opinions from people that have already been through the process of swapping packs around.

1. Ditch the FJ55 fronts altogether and source some second hand FJ55 rears to go into the rear, swap the 1" longer rear packs I have into the front. (This way I could sell one pair of new packs if needed.)

2. Keep the bulk of the front and rear new packs and get some custom longer mains made up

Ideally I want to end up with 2-3 inches of suspension lift.

I can always swap a few leaves in or out (I also have the sagged stock 40 springs that came with it), make whatever length shackle needed, flip mounts ect ect, to tweak it to what I want. I know alot of people are using 40/55/60 whatever hybrid leaf packs which is probably what i will end up with, I just need some thoughts on whether or not it's worthwhile to start from scratch with a 55 pack, or keep the new packs and work with them (going custom mains ect).


Or any other thoughts!

P.S This is a trail rig only. On-road handling isn't a concern, being stable on the side of a hill is.

Cheers, Andy M

[Narrowscopeofreality]

EDIT: The fronts are actually HJ45 springs. Same length anyway.

[woodyjbh]

To the best of my knowledge, (and i'm in the middle of my research like you), I think the 75 series front springs are the longest ones we can use. This will also give wheelbase extension depending on which way round you use them.

My current plan is to cut off the stock suspension from the chassis down then use four 75 series front springs (parabolic) with all new mounts etc. This will also be combined with a spring reversal at the front so, hopefully, I'll get wheelbase extension at the same time as the reversal and lift. Once thats done then its just a case of finding the propshafts to fit.

Woody

[pig in shit]

60 series diffs and leaves

[chunks]

Hey mate not sure what brand you have now, but pretty sure the Dobinsons leaves for the 40 have a longer main leaf.

[Narrowscopeofreality]

Cheers all for the replies.

Woody, any idea how long the 75 series springs are?

chunks, I looked into the dobinsons, from what i can gather theyre about 50mm longer in the main (?), didn't seem worthwhile buying new springs for another inch.

Andy