New rear spring?

[eightshot627]

I have a 2002, Std WB, 4.2, LT. I want to get stiffen the suspension some.

I already have fairly new Bilstien HD all around. When I replaced the front struts I bought new MOOG 81114 springs to make myself ready to install type struts. New sway bar end links. I’m going to order new sway bar bushings.

Now I’m thinking of changing the rear springs. But which ones? I don’t want to lift or drop. I just keep the same ride height, just firmer.

MOOG 81049 81051 81047
Use stock EXT stock V8/SS
ID 4.43in 4.43in 4.43in
Bar Dia 0.59in 0.63in 0.59in
Spring R 159 lb/in 210lb/in 159 lb/in
Inst Hei 5.44in 5.12in 5.44in
Free He 17.13in 16.62in 16.65

I’m leaning to the 81051 EXT springs. Has someone done this? What were the results?

Thanks, Walt

 

[Mooseman]

There a re several choices, each that have different characteristics. I have heard of guys using Tahoe ZR1 springs to lift the rear a bit but I don't think that's what you're after. The EXT springs might do the same thing as they were to deal with the extra weight but not necessarily to make it stiffer. SS springs might what you're looking for.

Someone with more experience should be able to advise you better than me.

 

[Capote]

There a re several choices, each that have different characteristics. I have heard of guys using Tahoe ZR1 springs to lift the rear a bit but I don't think that's what you're after. The EXT springs might do the same thing as they were to deal with the extra weight but not necessarily to make it stiffer. SS springs might what you're looking for.

Someone with more experience should be able to advise you better than me.

The Z71 springs are the same overall height as the stock TB rear springs, but give 1.5in. - 2in. of lift because of their higher spring rate. I think EXT springs are a bit stiffer. When I cross-referenced part numbers for the SWB vs LWB, they differed between each other. This was the case for several brands, AC Delco, Moog, Etc. This could be because of their spring rate? I say this because I don't recall them being any taller than SWB rear springs.

 

[Wooluf1952]

IIRC, the SS springs are stiffer, but you'll get a 1" or 2" drop.

 

[Capote]

IIRC, the SS springs are stiffer, but you'll get a 1" or 2" drop.

That's correct