Thread: 88 springs puzzle

Springs on my new 88 parts donor (Marfa) look to be in far better condition than those on the 86 (Arfa) they are destined for, but a closer look raises some questions.

First, front springs have 11 leaves. Workshop manual and Mr Taylor say 10. There is mention of 'heavy duty' front springs being specified when pto winch is fitted, and possibly for diesel models(?), but no mention what heavy duty springs look like. Marfa's front crossmember does have bolt holes that could have been for a pto winch - see attached pic.

Would be keen to hear from anyone who can confirm if there are/not heavy duty springs and, if so, if I should be removing a leaf to 'soften' them now there is no winch (sadly).

Second, the rear springs also look to be in reasonable shape, but have only 10 leaves and are supposed to have 11! To me they look really high - about 150 mm between axle and bump stop - but I might just be used to saggy springs. Can't see any obvious modifications to mounts etc.

I'd be interested in any feedback on the pics and advice from others who know more about these things (most of you) - could be these are not the springs I should be using for an otherwise 'original' resto.

Thanks