If you are carrying heavy goods on your Ford Ranger pickup truck or van, you will need very efficient suspension. A cars’ Leaf springs are located at the rear end of a car or truck that help support your vehicle’s suspension system.
When towing heavy loads, make sure that your ranger is regularly maintained to avoid breakdowns. It is very easy to know if your car springs are bad. Most factory-installed metal leaf springs are made to last for a given period of time. They eventually wear down and require replacement.
When you notice problems with your suspension, it is important to replace your leaf springs right away. Leaf springs are located on the front or rear end linked to the cars’ axle’s top or bottom part. Most new leaf springs are black in color, and their primary function is to absorb the gravity of excessive weight.
Avoid dangerous driving conditions by looking out for these signs on your car.
1. Observe Cracks on the Leaves
Manually observe the leaf springs to ensure there are no misplaced pieces or cracks on them.
2. Swaying
Your leaf springs are wearing out if you notice a bouncy, swaying feeling after you hit a bump. The energy that bumps and gravity bring along is supposed to be supported by leaf springs.
3. Ability to Carry Heavy Load
After loading your car or truck, it is necessary to observe if the back is sagging. Sagging, overloaded trucks indicate that it’s time to replace your suspension as soon as possible.
Other key factors to look out for include:
- Sagging on one side
- Squeaky sounds when a car is in motion
- Difficulty in steering
What Causes Leaf Springs Failure on Ford Ranger
Leaf springs are meant to last for many years. But exposure to poor road conditions or strain reduces the possibility of longer service. Other contributing factors include:
- General wear- Springs get fatigued with time. This can be normal wear and tear as a result of carrying heavy loads.
- Lose U-bolts- When U-bolts are not tightened properly, they become loose. These bolts attach the leaf spring to the axle.
- Truck overload- There is a given amount of weight your truck or car can handle. Carrying excess or uneven goods can interfere with the performance of your leaf springs.
Why you Should Not Replace Leaf Springs Yourself
Leaf spring repair is a difficult process, especially when you don’t have the necessary equipment. When it comes to large vehicles, the process can be very dangerous because it requires jacking your truck, removing the surrounding components before safely removing the springs.
Repairing your leaf springs at a garage or repair shop guarantees that the correct spring is installed on your vehicle.
Order Your Ford Leaf Springs Today
There is no need to ignore the warning signs of your suspension failure. Replace your leaf springs to avoid disappointment on the road. You may need a Sanderson Ford leaf spring replacement to keep your car in check.