I am about to do the front end rebuild on the '69 BB, and was wondering how to judge if the front springs are good, bad, or? Is there an uncompressed height to measure? I could ramble all day on this subject, so a little discussion would be of service. Thanks, Brad.

There is a spec on what the uncompressed height is supposed to be on any particular spring, but I don't think that will help you. When I spring losses some of it's 'spring' it will only show under a load. If you unload the spring, it will still have enough 'spring' to go back to original position. I'd say the best way to judge is by look and feel while they are installed in the car. First, does the front end look to be sagging? Does it sit lower than you like? Does it feel soft and mushy while driving... especially in the corners? While some of that can be attributed to worn suspension components, the springs make the most difference. Also, what do you want it to feel like? Do you like the feel of it now... do you like how it sits?

Basically, my opinion would be that if you like the way it looks and feels now, then get the same springs. If you don't like the look or feel, then look into replacing them while the front end is apart.

good luck,
Bill C.

Hey Bill, Thanks for the response. The car has 15" wheels on it ( this is actually the F-body) and I think the ride height is good, However the suspension "handling" stinks, I'll sum it up in that when we cruise locally, I have no confidence to the point of already ordering the new suspenson rebuild kit. All that said, I agree with you, and did not want to spend extra money on springs if I didn't have to.( I dont know what they cost)I know this may still be a little vague, and if it comes down to a judgement we will cross that when we get there. Let me here any other suggestions. Thanks again Brad.

I just rebuilt the front end on my 78 EC, while the other stuff made a difference I think replacing the springs was the biggest improvment. I used factory spec springs from Advanced Auto, actually upgraded because the 350 springs have a better load rating than the 305. $60 for the 305 springs, $73 for the 350 Springs. No more bouncing, if the car is 20 years old it will need them. It lifted the car about 1/2" but that may settle in time.