Topic: Front Spring "break in sag"

[7Jake]

I'm finishing up my engine, axle, etc. swap and have a set of Marlin 5" front springs.  The finished rig is a little taller than I'd like and I'm considering swapping to 4" springs before I mount shocks and push it out of the shop. I'm wondering how much sag I can expect once the springs start working.  They've only had engine weight for about 3 weeks and have never been flexed. I'm expecting about 1" of break in sag as I've experienced before, but wondered if that was still a good estimate.

[harley1615]

I have had mine for about 6m and it has saged about 1/2" in the front

[DTB]

are these import or USA springs..i have heard there are considerable differences in sag. You should usually expect between ½ - 1" of settling

[BigMike]

I have been using Marlin Crawler 4" springs for 2 years now. I remember the front springs broke in quicker than the rear. It was on my 3rd or 4th run when I noticed my steering wheel was off center slightly. This indicated to me that the front suspension settled in. I remember it was after a run at the Hammers and I noticed it while driving back home on the road.

The rear springs still road rough but broke-in in the same manner, noticing the difference after I went wheeling again.

My springs are very soft and yet the are retaining the ride height incredibly well. My tire to fender clearance has never seemed to change over the years, but I do remember my steering wheel changing. So I know they settled in, but it must have only been a slight amount. I should have taken measurements from when I first installed them.

[Hottrod81]

I have had the 4" MC USA springs for over 2 years now and I would say they settled about an inch.  They settled evenly and have not lost any of their arc.

[7Jake [OP]]

Thanks for the info guys, it sounds like usual, 1/2-1" which means I'll probably go to 4" springs.  I have chevy springs in the rear with 4" blocks, marlins 5" in the front with custom hangers and my 40's are clearing the fenders by about 6+" without fender mods. (oh yeah, and some body lift to allow room for the Chevy) Of coarse they'll probably rub a little when they flex, but that's what they made body saws for.   I think the CG and the step stool will both benefit by a little drop in height.