1969 Cutlass S convertible rear springs

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Old Sep 13, 2021 | 08:39 AM
  #1  
lala5818's Avatar
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1969 Cutlass S convertible rear springs


I ordered new rear coil springs for my 69 Cutlass Convertible frame off restoration. The new ones are shorter than the old ones. Is this correct or should I send the new ones back?
Old Sep 13, 2021 | 12:58 PM
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The free standing height of the spring depends upon the specs for that particular spring. On my car, the worn, sagging original 40+ year old springs were taller than the new springs due to the difference in specs.
I deliberately chose a spring that was stiffer than the originals and gave the same installed ride height.



Last edited by Fun71; Sep 13, 2021 at 01:00 PM.
Old Sep 15, 2021 | 03:53 AM
  #3  
Greg Rogers's Avatar
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Old one has 4 large coils while new has 3. I dunno, I guess it depends on how much you trust the seller and his application catalog, if you want to try them out-- or just send 'em back....
Old Sep 15, 2021 | 05:50 AM
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I just got a new set of springs for my 69 Cutlass as it was sitting lower on one side. The nes ones were about 3/4" shorter than the original and it sits just fine. I used Moog 5401 springs. They compared to some info I got on the FE 2 suspension springs.
Steve
Old Sep 15, 2021 | 05:07 PM
  #5  
Cosmic Charlie's Avatar
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From: Newburyport MA Area
69 Cutlass Convertible
I bought these from amazon - $73.15

Amazon Amazon

Amazon box, then Next box said Speedway, and Inner Box said Elgin 6435





the 6435 number is a Moog Number, (look up on their website attached) some said that these are the Chinese version on the Moog, not sure, they were direct fit - no issues, car sits about 1" taller than when the old tired springs were in ... +- car looks normal height

From Amazon - These rear coil springs are stock height and are intended for 1967-72 GM A-Body vehicles to achieve maximum rear end height. Constant Rate OE replacement coil springs restore handling and ensure that ride height and body sway are returned to original specifications. Spring Inside Diameter: 5.57" Bar Diameter: 0.56" Spring Rate: 141.00 Lbs Per Inch. Load: 760.00 Lbs. Installation Height: 9.00" Free Height: 14.40" End Type 1: Pigtail. End Type 2: Pigtail. Spring Type: Constant Rate.

https://www.moog-suspension-parts.co...il_springs.asp
Old Sep 16, 2021 | 10:34 AM
  #6  
Dynoking's Avatar
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It could be my eyes and/or your photo but the wire diameter of the new spring looks thicker.
Old Sep 16, 2021 | 03:02 PM
  #7  
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Originally Posted by Dynoking
It could be my eyes and/or your photo but the wire diameter of the new spring looks thicker.
This would be the main consideration in compensating for the difference in coils and length.
Old Sep 18, 2021 | 10:45 AM
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Thank you for all the responses. Is there a preferred gear oil weight for the rear differential?
Old Sep 18, 2021 | 12:52 PM
  #9  
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Originally Posted by lala5818
Thank you for all the responses. Is there a preferred gear oil weight for the rear differential?
Any mineral oil based 80/90wt gear oil will work. If you have a posi you need ad an additive.
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