Are your vehicle’s suspension leaf springs worn out? You may need to replace them. Before you buy your springs, it’s a good idea to measure your old ones to ensure a perfect fit. But how do you do it? Midland Road Springs’ step-by-step guide takes you through how to measure leaf springs. 

What tools do I need to measure my leaf springs? 

Getting the correct measurements when upgrading or buying new leaf springs is a crucial component of the measuring process. The springs play a vital part in influencing the suspension’s performance. Incorrectly measured leaf springs can compromise your vehicle’s safety, ride quality, and weight distribution. 

When it comes to what tools you’ll need for measuring your leaf springs, it includes: 

• A tape measure with imperial and metric units. 
• Digital or manual callipers to measure the leaf spring’s thickness. 
• A flat and straight piece of metal or wood. 
• Safety gear (Gloves and safety glasses) 

Measure the main leaf length

The first step in measuring your leaf spring is to find out the main leaf length. Typically, leaf springs come in different types, which require individual approaches to measuring them. For example, with an eye-to-eye-style leaf spring, measure from the centre bolt to the centre of the eye in both directions along the spring’s arch.  

Measure the leaf spring width

Once you’ve measured the length of the spring, you’ll need to measure the leaf spring’s width. This is from the centre bolt from side to side across the leaf. The width gives you an indicator of how much shock absorption you’ll need. 

Measure the leaf spring height

Measuring the height of your leaf spring is determined by the spring’s thickness, from the top to the bottom, as well as the space which fills the arch. To find the height of your leaf springs, place them upside down on a flat table and measure the vertical distance of the spring from the table surface to the bottom tip of the centre bolt. 

Measure the thickness of your leaf springs 

After you’ve measured the height, width, and length of the springs, it’s time to measure the thickness of the springs. You can measure the spring’s thickness by running a tape measure vertically down the top spring’s edge. This will give you an idea of the absorption you need for your vehicle. 

Is it possible to measure my leaf springs without removing them?  

Yes, you can measure the leaf springs on your vehicle without removing them from the suspension system. However, we recommend removing the springs from the suspension and measuring them on a flat surface for the best possible results. 

The benefits of measuring your leaf springs accurately

Having your leaf springs accurately measured not only provides safety benefits but can also improve other areas of your vehicle, such as: 

• Providing an even weight distribution. 
• Better ride quality. 
• Improved vehicle stability and handling.
• Reduced risk of your van being involved in accidents. 

Replace your leaf springs with Midland Road Springs

Does your suspension need to be replaced or upgraded? Midland Road Springs has replaced, supplied, and fitted leaf springs since 1986. We have nearly 40 years of experience upgrading and replacing leaf springs for various vehicles. Explore our leaf spring collection online, alongside our range of light commercial and heavy-duty leaf springs. For more information about our leaf springs, contact our expert team today.