M416 suspension/axle setup

xanth

New member
Recently acquired M416 that we've taken out once. Fun so far, but I want to get the suspension replaced over the winter. Springs are flat, or showing a negative arch (passenger side).

Trailer as it sits (RTT, framework, awning, battery, ect) with no gear is about 1550 lbs. Haven't weighed it with all our gear in it yet. Leaf springs are worn.

Have some Rancho RS44020 springs on order, but they've been backordered, so I'm rethinking my setup. Originally was just gonna go with the Rancho springs, custom Dexter 3500lb axle w/brakes (we tow it behind a JK 2-door Wrangler), and eventually run some 33" JK wheels/tires. Has 31" tires on it now.

Anyone have experience (good, bad) with the Rancho 2.5" leaf spring packs? They aren't too expensive, and should put the trailer about where I want it to sit, though considering the current springs are pretty flat, they might be a bit too tall.

Another option I am considering is standard springs (Crown). They are a bit cheaper ($30 a spring). Not sure what type of ride height they are though. Those with a spring over (not my first choice) might make the trailer a bit too tall.

And 3rd, the 10 leaf pack (OMIX). I'm guessing the 10 leaf packs are a more of a HD type spring, but I can't find any load capacity ratings for them online. I've read that the 10 leaf pack might be a bit stuff for a trailer.

I've tried the local spring shop route, to have some custom spring packs made, but, nobody really wants to entertain it, and the cost is way too high.

The axle will come later this winter.

Anyway, looking for some real world experiences with the different setups for a M416.

Or maybe a complete different setup. I've explored a Timbren setup, but that is getting pretty pricy.
 

rnArmy

Adventurer
I've got the Rancho 2.5" springs on my 46 Willys. I've had them on there for a good 24 years or so, and they've been Jeeped hard. I've been very happy with them. Ranch used to sell a 1" lift spring - you might be able to find a pair from someplace that has them in a dusty storage place.

These Jeep springs are 1.75" across. I don't know if in the later CJ's they went to a wider spring or not. Just something to be aware of.
 

old_CWO

Well-known member
I believe any CJ leaf spring set will work.

Fronts from the flat fender era are what fit the military trailers. Can't remember what's under Kaiser made CJs but I know AMC are 2" wide front and 2.5" back.

I never had much luck with aftermarket Rancho or Superlift lift springs and heavy loads but that was back in the 80s and early 90s on K10s. Basically the lift leafs used a lot of arch to get the ride height and then sacrificed rate to keep them from rattling out your back teeth. Now to be sure I looked really cool bombing around on 6" of lift, 35s, and chrome spoke wheels; right up until there was a load of firewood in the bed...

Obviously that was a long time ago and a completely different application than this so may not seem useful feedback.:unsure:

That being said, I would sure want to know what the spring rate and free arch was as compared to new OEM stock before purchasing the lift springs. If they were tall unladen but couldn't carry the load as I experienced, you wouldn't be any better off.
 
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old_CWO

Well-known member
Us Navy guys are smart enough to pay someone else to get shot at.

With all due respect to our valiant Marines and steadfast Sailors, the finest American sea going service has always been and always will be the USCG!

Semper Paratus brothers??
 

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