Leaf Spring Position

[convertibled]

Can anybody help me with the actual distance from the center of one leaf spring to another? On the convertible I am rebiulding the front mountings are 40" but the rear ones are 39 11/16". I assume the correct size is the same centers as the spring saddles on the axle? How critical is it?
Many thanks
Carl

[katy]

I would suspect that if they’re eqidistance from the centerline of the car it should be OK.
Dimensions are given on page R.17 of the BMC manual, if you can figger it out.

[kennatt]

simply measure across the mounting holes in the axle,its that which determins where the springs sit.

[bmcecosse]

5/16" won't matter a hoot !!

[convertibled]

And I suppose it's only 5/32" each side! I have the other dimensions off the BMC manual.
Also I am refitting new saddles to the Marina axle I am going to fit so I can split the difference between the 2 widths when weld them to the axle.
Thanks for the reassurance bmcecosse I will carry on welding.

[bmcecosse]

[chickenjohn]

If you want the car to drive ok after replacing the spring hangers, it is best to fit the new hangers and rear chassis legs as close to the proper position as possible, certainly to 1/16" inch or 1 -2 mm within original.