how to fix leaf spring sag on rear drivers side by an inch?

[Rockhounder]

Hey there, just noticed that my 88 suburban has a slight sag of about an inch on the rear drivers side axle. The rear passenger side also has a little sag, but not as pronounced. This was noticed after I put on 2.5 inch new front leaf springs and rear 2.5 inch blocks. The front is definitely higher than rear, whereas the suburban was pretty level before (except for the same left side slight lower by about an inch over rear axle).

Anybody else experience this? How did you fix it for the simplest way? Overall, I think that if the left rear was raised 1.25 to 1.5 inches and the rear right was raised .75 inches or so, it would even out the stance.

I guess I could get a higher set of blocks, but would like to see the spring sag issue properly fixed versus a stopgap that will affect safety or handling down the road.

Any suggestions would be most appreciated.

Thanks
Paul

 

[Rockhounder]

What are any of your experiences with "Add-A-Leaf" springs?

Do they work as advertised, and do they adversely affect ride quality?

 

[nick325i]

I put an add-a-leaf on my old 4runner. It had been worked hard by a previous owner and had sagged a lot. It gave me an extra couple inches for only about $40.

It was mostly a trail rig so I didn't notice too much difference in ride but if will definitely be a little stiffer although I don't think that's a horrible thing. I would also look into a new set of factory springs. They aren't that expensive and you don't have to worry about taking the leaf pack apart. I found this place on a quick search.

http://www.generalspringkc.com/Leaf_Springs_Chevrolet_GMC_Truck_1500_1973_1987_s/1823.htm

 

[Erik N]

I looked into options for my sagging '88 as well. The add-a-leaf won't work if your Burb has rear AC because the lines on the frame are in the way. I considered airbags, but they were expensive. Air shocks are another option, but I don't think the towers are up to the job of carrying the weight.

I ended up buying new springs from SD springs, cost about $500 IIRC. She sits nice and level now, even when loaded.

I would take the spare tire out of the LR corner, that is why Burbs sag there. Plus it is a projectile waiting to kill you in a collision.

 

[soldierman79]

My 86 K5 had sagging leaf springs. I took it to a spring shop to have them all re-arched and a leaf added to each. I ran me about $200 per. I am very pleased with the way it came out.