This is my first 442 to restore and I am having a lot of fun. I have used this site (searches) many times and I appreciate all the knowledge it holds. Those u-joints would have been a real challenge w/o the heat. Anyway, does anyone know why the 69 442 rear springs are unique. I have looked at a lot of sites (OPGI, NAPA, Rock, O'reilly) and they all have the front springs but not the rear. OPGI has a set (MOOG TRW5409) for a 68 442, but not a 69. I did call them both with no help. Does anyone have an idea or opinion on this?
Thanks
One thing I have learned, these Olds are well built vehicles.

 

Not sure why they would be different....is your car a conv? If a coupe then I would think a set for a 68 would work. Easy enough to try as it is a quick install. If you have a service manual you can check ride height specs in front of manual after your 68 spring install or check 68 vs 69 manual info. I really know of no major changes other than maybe spring rate especially between coupe and conv.
If the 68 spring height is too high you can always trim the spring. Going a little bit at a time. (1 inch). Had to do that on my rear springs, got them from NAPA (I think) ground off about 2in on each. Sets almost perfect. Best I can give you. Good luck.

Regards,

Fred

 

While the spring RATEs may be different, the springs from all 68-72 Cutlii are physically interchangeable. A 68 spring will fit a 69, will fit a 70, etc.

 

Do the Cutlii use leaf springs in the rear? If so you can have those re-tempered. I had a friend that did that to his Monte Carlo in college.

 

Uh, neither Cutlii nor Montes (at least, none of the RWD versions) use leaf springs.

 

Thanks for the replies. I also think the 68's should work, but I found a parts source (BAP)that said they would make the springs as per the 69 specs. They were a little more expensive, but not too bad. I'll post an update if all turns out OK.

Ross