Leaf Springs Options For Electric Vehicle

Updated 01/19/2015 | Published 01/17/2015

Question:

About finished with the design of an electric vehicle for pit use at the drag races all new chassis, etc with a Cfoot cab body. Looking at 1-3/4inch leaf springs/ rear and single leaf spring on a ped straight front axle. What effect does the spring length have? Not really sure it matters. Softer or harsher ride MIGHT not be noticed in the shorter periods of time I expect will be spent in the vehicle. Currently I am looking at the 20inch springs, should I think longer? thanks,

asked by: Allen C

Expert Reply:

You want to choose the springs based on the weight capacity and fit. Since you are building this, the length of the spring would be open if you have the room.

Slipper springs usually have a greater weight capacity but they will tend to ride a little stiffer than double-eye springs.

I have attached a link to our product page for the suspension items we offer that you can check out. You said you were considering a single leaf spring. The single-leaf spring we offer that is 1-3/4 inch wide is the Dexter Double-Eye Spring, part # e46SR. This double eye spring is designed for 6,000 lb axles and measures 25-1/4 inches center-of-eye to center-of-eye.

The springs we offer that are 20-1/4 inches long are double-eye leaf springs designed for 2,000 lb axles.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L