Suspension
Leaf Spring
A leaf spring is a stack of curved steel leaves that carries the weight of a truck or SUV and locates the axle. We list 30 leaf springs from $102 to $1324 for vehicles from 1977-2018, from Dorman, Skyjacker, Belltech and DIY Solutions, with fits for the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Tahoe and S10 and the Toyota Tacoma.
Shop leaf spring by vehicle
Signs of worn leaf springs
With age and heavy loads, leaf springs lose their arch and sag. Signs include a rear end that sits low, a vehicle that leans to one side, bottoming out over bumps, broken or shifted leaves, and clunking from worn bushings or shackles.
A broken main leaf can let the axle move, which affects handling. Inspect springs regularly on trucks that tow or haul.
Stock, lift and position
Replacement springs restore factory ride height. Lift springs from brands such as Skyjacker raise the vehicle, with listed heights of 4 in, 5 in, 6 in and 8 in. Lowering springs from brands such as Belltech drop it. Lift or drop changes may also need longer or shorter shocks, brake lines and driveline changes.
Positions include front and rear. Leaf springs are normally replaced in pairs on the same axle so the vehicle sits level.
Install tips
Support the frame on jack stands and the axle with a jack, then remove the U-bolts and spring eye bolts. Use new U-bolts, since they stretch when torqued.
Check the shackles, hangers and bushings while the springs are out. Snug the eye bolts with the vehicle on the ground at ride height, then torque to specification. Recheck U-bolt torque after the first few hundred miles, and have the alignment checked if the front axle was involved.
Leaf Spring questions
Should leaf springs be replaced in pairs?
Yes. Replacing both springs on an axle keeps ride height even and stops the vehicle from leaning to one side. A single new spring would sit higher than the old one on the other side.
Do I need new U-bolts with new leaf springs?
New U-bolts are the standard recommendation. Old U-bolts stretch when tightened and may not hold torque properly. U-bolts are inexpensive next to the cost of a shifted axle, so order a set sized for your springs.
Will lift leaf springs change my ride?
Lift springs raise the vehicle and can change ride feel and handling. You may also need longer shocks and other parts. Check the listing details.