Author Topic: 69 Z/28 Correct leaf springs, where to buy? (Read 46330 times)

69z28302 · « **on:** June 03, 2012, 11:13:01 PM »

Im looking for leaf springs for my 69 Z/28. I've heard good and bad about Eaton Springs. I also heard someone with a COPO in the Nebraska area was making them too.

Thank CRG
Mike

bertfam · « **Reply #1 on:** June 04, 2012, 02:10:30 AM »

If you want the "correct" springs, call Bob Harris at CAMARO SPECIALTIES.

Ed

lcmc · « **Reply #2 on:** June 07, 2012, 09:29:38 PM »

I think Heartbeat City has them

69z28302 · « **Reply #3 on:** June 07, 2012, 09:42:00 PM »

I talked with a guy in Nebraska earlier this year and he said he sells rear springs to both Camaro Specialties and Heartbeat City. I cant remember his name . He said he had a Hugger Orange COPO also.

Thanks
Mike

acelr8 · « **Reply #4 on:** June 08, 2012, 12:32:15 AM »

;DNE spring source please reply as you are closer to me by far.Jeff

69Z28freak · « **Reply #5 on:** June 12, 2012, 05:33:14 AM »

Dosen't Eaton supply to the various dealers? Would they not be the most correct?

69z28302 · « **Reply #6 on:** June 12, 2012, 10:58:29 AM »

I've heard some people were pleased with them. Some say the springs sit to high when installed.

Mike

JKZ27 · « **Reply #7 on:** June 12, 2012, 12:14:04 PM »

I got a set from Heartbeat City last year. I'm curious what differences there may be between theirs and the ones sold by Camaro Specialties.

John

68camaroz28 · « **Reply #8 on:** June 12, 2012, 12:35:08 PM »

Quote from: 69Z28freak on June 12, 2012, 05:33:14 AM

Dosen't Eaton supply to the various dealers? Would they not be the most correct?

When I checked with them on restoring original leaf springs I found their hardware not to be technically correct plus I found one of our original main plies was cracked through the center hole. If I remember correctly Eaton mentions the hardware issue up front. A good friend purchased his from Heartbeat and the only major difference I could detect from originals was the missing GMC embossed logo found on the side of many leafs. Due to that review and discussions with East Coast Muscle Cars (they knew of several cars with them) I purchased a set from Heartbeat for our 68 restoration.

bertfam · « **Reply #9 on:** June 12, 2012, 01:38:02 PM »

As Chick stated, Eaton springs are not "technically correct". They're generic replacements you can get from the various vendors for a few hundred dollars. The top picture is the Eaton springs and the lower picture is the Bob Harris springs. BIG difference.

You should note that HBC gets his springs from Bob Harris. Bob supplies several vendors with his springs. Also note that the "GMC" markings weren't on all springs. A lot of original springs have been found without that marking.

Ed

JKZ27 · « **Reply #10 on:** June 12, 2012, 02:09:37 PM »

Thus the price difference. Thanks Ed. I'm happy with the springs that I bought from HBC (not knowing who made them). They sat high initially but after a month or two and a few hundred miles, it has a nice stance. Rides nice also.

John

69Z28freak · « **Reply #11 on:** July 04, 2012, 08:58:10 AM »

Very interesting thread. How much more are the Bob Harris springs. Also i thought that the correct finish was bare metal.

69z28302 · « **Reply #12 on:** July 04, 2012, 10:26:20 AM »

Quote from: 69z28302 on June 12, 2012, 10:58:29 AM

I've heard some people were pleased with them. Some say the springs sit to high when installed.

Mike

This was on the EATON springs

Mike

69z28302 · « **Reply #13 on:** July 04, 2012, 10:34:44 AM »

Quote from: 69Z28freak on July 04, 2012, 08:58:10 AM

Very interesting thread. How much more are the Bob Harris springs. Also i thought that the correct finish was bare metal.

There about $200.00 more but as far as original looks and height there worth it.

The correct finish is a tempered bare metal look.

Mike

RonM · « **Reply #14 on:** July 04, 2012, 11:46:01 AM »

I also got my springs from Bob Harris. They sit high at first installed in an incomplete car, but once the car is complete it sits fine. I put about two hundred pounds of cement block in the trunk to help settle the springs while the car was still apart. As for the finish Jerry told me to spray them with REM oil (the gun oil). It works like a charm, the springs have been in for about four years now and they still have that nice bare metal look. Hope this helps, RonM.

69Z28freak · « **Reply #15 on:** July 19, 2012, 06:48:30 AM »

So how do we contact Bob Harris?

69z28302 · « **Reply #16 on:** July 19, 2012, 08:29:54 AM »

Quote from: 69Z28freak on July 19, 2012, 06:48:30 AM

So how do we contact Bob Harris?

Here you go.
http://www.camaros.com/

69Z28freak · « **Reply #17 on:** July 23, 2012, 03:18:07 AM »

THANKS 69z28302

bertfam · « **Reply #18 on:** July 23, 2012, 06:03:57 PM »

Mike, the contact information was in my original reply above.

Ed

69z28302 · « **Reply #19 on:** July 24, 2012, 12:28:03 AM »

Quote from: Ed Bertrand on July 23, 2012, 06:03:57 PM

Mike, the contact information was in my original reply above.

Ed

Your are correct Ed, 69Z28FREAK asked about that in reply number 15.

Thanks

69Z28freak · « **Reply #20 on:** July 24, 2012, 08:38:27 AM »

Yes thanks I m now in touch with Bob.

69z28302 · « **Reply #21 on:** July 24, 2012, 10:58:50 AM »

Good to here. I'm sure you'll be pleased with the springs.

MM

lynnbilodeau · « **Reply #22 on:** February 28, 2013, 03:24:07 AM »

Old thread I know, but a search didn't turn up anything.

Does anyone sell the CORRECT slider (or silencer), part number 3935737. Four required per side, 8 total.
The kit that heartbeat city sells looks like the correct clamps and rivets, but not the sliders.
http://www.heartbeatcitycamaro.com/store/product/16835/Camaro-Leaf-spring-rebuild-clamp-kit-1968-1969/

The ones in the hbc kit look like the ones I got from Eaton DS.

If no one makes the correct part, any chance anyone has some extras? I need 2, but would like to have 4.

firstgenaddict · « **Reply #23 on:** February 28, 2013, 03:25:19 AM »

Eaton sells them, go to their website they are like a dollar each.

lynnbilodeau · « **Reply #24 on:** February 28, 2013, 04:07:11 AM »

Thanks James.

68camaroz28 · « **Reply #25 on:** February 28, 2013, 12:49:19 PM »

Quote from: firstgenaddict on February 28, 2013, 03:25:19 AM

Eaton sells them, go to their website they are like a dollar each.

Yep, http://www.eatonsprings.com/tipinsertsreboundclipsubolts.html
Part #33C133 2"X2.5" oblong cup $0.95 each
Bad part is you will get nailed on shipping. Why HBC sells that kit and states the spacers are exact except for the nib I'm not sure.

lynnbilodeau · « **Reply #26 on:** February 28, 2013, 03:53:18 PM »

Yes, shipping was $15 and some change. Only choice is fedex ground to a residence, even though I am having them shipped to my office. Option of priority mail for 6 bucks would be nice. Oh well.

Seems like hbc would get a supply of these to sell with that kit. All the vendors sell lots of part that are "exact". Problem is most are not exact.

69Z28freak · « **Reply #27 on:** March 18, 2013, 06:41:01 AM »

Here are the springs I purchased. I was expecting them to look more like new metal. Like media blasted, but these are supposed to be correct. I have seen so many pictures of restored cars, that have a much lighter grey finish. Are the ones I have correct looking. They seem to have some kind of a thin grease coating on them. I purchased these locally, and I think they came from D & R classics.

tmodel66 · « **Reply #28 on:** March 18, 2013, 12:17:25 PM »

The reason you see different colors on restored cars? Everybody and their brother has tried to duplicate the blue/grey color of original springs. You finally get something you can live with and call it a day. We probably mixed 20 pints of paint trying for a color. The only thing that jumps out at me is you are missing a retainer on the mid rear section of the springs. Mine has 3 where you only have 2. Mike keep in mind I have 5 leaf springs and that maybe the difference. Somebody with 4 leaf setup will let you know

lynnbilodeau · « **Reply #29 on:** March 19, 2013, 04:21:18 AM »

The four leaf springs only have two rebound clamps each.

69Z28freak · « **Reply #30 on:** March 21, 2013, 08:05:47 AM »

Quote from: tmodel66 on March 18, 2013, 12:17:25 PM

The reason you see different colors on restored cars? Everybody and their brother has tried to duplicate the blue/grey color of original springs. You finally get something you can live with and call it a day. We probably mixed 20 pints of paint trying for a color. The only thing that jumps out at me is you are missing a retainer on the mid rear section of the springs. Mine has 3 where you only have 2. Mike keep in mind I have 5 leaf springs and that maybe the difference. Somebody with 4 leaf setup will let you know

Thanks Daniel. I just want to make sure what the right finish should be before I install them in the car.

firstgenaddict · « **Reply #31 on:** April 22, 2013, 04:10:22 PM »

Picked up a set of Bob Harris' rear leaf springs, here is a side by side comparison to my original 4 leafs.

IMHO the springs are very very nice, only having one set with which to compare leaves normal differences out so I will compare with what I have.
1. The radius's on the rectangle appear to be larger on the originals.
2. The depth of the rectangles appear to be deeper on the originals.
*3. Compared to my originals the Harris Springs appear to be thicker on the tapered end.

*this may be due to the fact my originals were missing the separator pads and had worn on one another.

I know many restorers who have their leaves re-arched, they have been extremely happy with the results, if my springs did not have some of the severe pits I would have gone that route.

69Z28-RS · « **Reply #32 on:** April 22, 2013, 04:23:48 PM »

If you have to have 'new' leafs, those appear to be very nice, and very close to the original configuration/look.. Let us know how the car sits when you install them. Did you measure car height before the old ones were removed for comparison?

lynnbilodeau · « **Reply #33 on:** April 22, 2013, 04:39:08 PM »

Those are pretty darn close. However, what I found, and you have confirmed is that the thickness of the metal used in the rebound clamps is thinner on the repop springs. That is why I made my own.

However, you are correct, in that my color is just a little light.

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/ubbthreads.php/topics/520005/Re_69_Z_28_rear_axle_and_sprin#Post520005

scoop · « **Reply #34 on:** April 23, 2013, 01:04:57 AM »

As far as a protective finish for the leaf springs I used a product called Sharkhide. It is a clear liquid that is you apply to bare metal. It goes on like laquer thinner and is absorbed into the metal.The metal will not rust and leaves the natural look. I purchased my springs from Camaro Specialities and cleaned them with laquer thinner to remove all the oil and used an air hose to get everything out from between the leafs. Then I flooded the Sharkhide between the leafs and again used a air hose to force the sharkhide for complete coverage between the leafes, and then applied it to the rest of the springs and wiped everythng down. They look geat and you don't have to worry about rust and keeps the natural look. I have not figured out how to post pictures but if anyone wants to see what they look like they can e mail me and I will sent them. Thanks, Scoop

69Z28-RS · « **Reply #35 on:** April 23, 2013, 03:28:14 AM »

posting your pix is very easy, Scoop, so long as they are each smaller than 150 KB ; a free software 'light image resizer' works for shrinking them to whatever size you want. You can include up to 4 images in each post, but the total must be less than 500KB.
if you do a 'reply' to a post, there is an ATTACH button below the text window, which allows you to browse your computer and select the image, or images, you want to attach to your post.

scoop · « **Reply #36 on:** April 24, 2013, 02:20:41 AM »

Thanks for the tip. I will try to download a couple of pictures of my springs treated with sharkhide. Thanks again,,, Scoop

69Z28-RS · « **Reply #37 on:** April 24, 2013, 03:09:46 AM »

I'm glad it helped. I liked the 'Light Image Resizer' so well, I bought the pro version!
The springs look very good.
How long has the treatment been on them? Have they been exposed to weather, - heat, or rain at all?

69Z28freak · « **Reply #38 on:** April 24, 2013, 05:11:06 AM »

Hey Jim your springs look just like the ones I bought. I have recently found an original used set that need to be restored as they have a lot of surface rust. I will post some pics of them side by side to compare to yours. Your new ones are dark like mine. Scoops look much lighter. Which is correct as I have seen both finishes.

scoop · « **Reply #39 on:** April 25, 2013, 12:34:10 AM »

I purchased my springs from Camaro Specialties three years ago. I treated them and installed them and ran the car for two years. Last fall I completely stripped the car for a full restoration. I just re installed them. The pictures are the same spring. I only wiped them down with laquer thinner and applied a fresh coat of Sharkhide. Pictures do not always show exact color. The sharkhide keeps the original color of the spring. If you see them in person they look llike bare steel. Hope this answers your question. I will send another picture with different light which makes them look a little darker. Thanks, Scoop

69Z28freak · « **Reply #40 on:** April 25, 2013, 12:57:38 AM »

Thanks Scoop your car and your springs look great.

69Z28-RS · « **Reply #41 on:** April 25, 2013, 01:22:05 AM »

Eastwood sells a 'Sharkhide aluminum and metal protectant'.. $60/quart.... Is that what you used Scoop? just rub it on? or spray it? or ??

scoop · « **Reply #42 on:** April 27, 2013, 01:31:36 AM »

Yes that is what I used. You just apply it with a piece of a coton diaper for a real thin layer. If you spray it it will get to heavy. Sharkhide has a website. I have called and they are very helpful if you have questions or concerns. If you try it let me know what you think. Good luck,,, Scoop

69Z28freak · « **Reply #43 on:** May 13, 2013, 01:55:19 AM »

I also picked up a set of original Z/28 Leaf springs. I plan to restore them along with a CB radiator I purchased as part of the same deal. Here are some pics for comparison between the after market set I purchased and the original ones.

69Z28freak · « **Reply #44 on:** May 13, 2013, 01:55:44 AM »

And a few more pics for comparison.

tmodel66 · « **Reply #45 on:** May 13, 2013, 02:40:09 AM »

After you get them installed a feller would have to be on his best game to tell the difference. In reality I don't think you could after they are installed.

firstgenaddict · « **Reply #46 on:** May 14, 2013, 03:39:26 PM »

Quote from: tmodel66 on May 13, 2013, 02:40:09 AM

After you get them installed a feller would have to be on his best game to tell the difference. In reality I don't think you could after they are installed.

And would probably still be second guessing oneself...

If you are going to be using the original set I would have them re-arched so as to remove the accumulated sag of 3300# for 40+ years... it costs approx $100 around here.

enio45 · « **Reply #47 on:** December 01, 2013, 08:07:14 PM »

On this discussion on springs - im getting ready to restore a 69Z...car came partially assembled - however im going to start over. It has new springs in the front and the back - however I don't know anything about them. Car was started back in 1980 and im thinking it has higher lift springs in the front and rear, but do not have any definitive idea. Motor is currently out of the car as well.

Im thinking instead of gambling on the fact these springs COULD BE correct, I should go for a new set from Camaro Specialities....right thinking?? or can I tell once I get them out if they are correct, orig or some replacements? Appreciate the thoughts....

PS - this was a very good thread and I lover the idea of the shark coating.....those results are fantastic!

69Z28freak · « **Reply #48 on:** December 01, 2013, 08:53:17 PM »

Here are my original springs, next to the repops. I plan to restore the originals.

sbmiano · « **Reply #49 on:** December 03, 2013, 12:45:37 AM »

Bob Harris springs were put in last year and no issues at legends. Put rem oil on and they look and sit great. He has many hard to find parts and I should know I've used him a lot this past year

69Z28freak · « **Reply #50 on:** December 03, 2013, 12:46:57 AM »

Quote from: sbmiano on December 03, 2013, 12:45:37 AM

Bob Harris springs were put in last year and no issues at legends. Put rem oil on and they look and sit great. He has many hard to find parts and I should know I've used him a lot this past year

How about a picture of your springs.

enio45 · « **Reply #51 on:** December 03, 2013, 01:14:52 AM »

From the above pics - it is hard to tell - and from what I can see, there is a difference in the loop area at the rear of the spring, where the shackle mounts...orig has more of an arch. Having said that - I think the look is right on and most importantly - if they have the right height!

Im temped to get a set fronts and backs from Bob. Does he have any special discounts etc going on for the holiday?

69Z28freak · « **Reply #52 on:** December 03, 2013, 01:34:47 AM »

Quote from: enio45 on December 03, 2013, 01:14:52 AM

From the above pics - it is hard to tell - and from what I can see, there is a difference in the loop area at the rear of the spring, where the shackle mounts...orig has more of an arch. Having said that - I think the look is right on and most importantly - if they have the right height!

Im temped to get a set fronts and backs from Bob. Does he have any special discounts etc going on for the holiday?

Not sure about any sales, but call him up. Have you checked out his website to see what he stocks. From what I recall he does not have pictures on his site, but if you call him he will get you sorted. To my knowledge he is the only one with the higher quality leaf springs, that are that close to original. Notice how mine are untouched and quite dark in colour compared to a lot that you will see on restored cars. I left mine in the same finish they were when shipped.

enio45 · « **Reply #53 on:** December 03, 2013, 01:59:57 AM »

yes, I like the look of yours......have u order front coils from him as well.....I got a set from JM and they were black powdercoated which I was not happy with but I did not ask up front....I like to get a natural steel frnt set as well if possible from him

69Z28freak · « **Reply #54 on:** December 03, 2013, 02:07:08 AM »

Quote from: enio45 on December 03, 2013, 01:59:57 AM

yes, I like the look of yours......have u order front coils from him as well.....I got a set from JM and they were black powdercoated which I was not happy with but I did not ask up front....I like to get a natural steel frnt set as well if possible from him

My front coils are from Lloyd's car. I just sand blasted them and painted them with a very light coat of cast blast. I didn't leave them bare metal as I didn't want them to rust. From what I can tell my coils look like most of the restored cars as all as the springs for sale at Heart Beat City.

firstgenaddict · « **Reply #55 on:** December 04, 2013, 08:15:15 PM »

Then your coils are NOS xxxx720 springs which were put in Lloyds car a few years ago.
It had GM marked 725 Big Block springs in it when it was purchased, (obviously for weight shift to the rear in drag racing) and rode like a buck board.

AFTER the 720's

69Z28freak · « **Reply #56 on:** December 04, 2013, 08:31:21 PM »

Thanks James great pics of the car. Nice to know what coils I have in the car finally. I guess I will see how they perform, looks like I may have to swap them out, judging by what you are saying.

firstgenaddict · « **Reply #57 on:** December 04, 2013, 09:20:48 PM »

If these are the springs which were in the car upon Lloyd's purchase then they are correct NOS GM springs for a 69 Z28 and as stated have no more than 3 years of compression set into them.
I have the Big Block 725's here.

69Z28freak · « **Reply #58 on:** December 04, 2013, 09:40:04 PM »

Quote from: firstgenaddict on December 04, 2013, 09:20:48 PM

If these are the springs which were in the car upon Lloyd's purchase then they are correct NOS GM springs for a 69 Z28 and as stated have no more than 3 years of compression set into them.
I have the Big Block 725's here.

Got it. Thanks for that clarification. That is a huge relief.

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Author Topic: 69 Z/28 Correct leaf springs, where to buy? (Read 46330 times)