Rear Leaf Spring clamps

[klm]

Almost all Morris Minors in Australia were assembled from CKD kits imported from the UK but a certain percentage of locally manufactured items were used during assembly. The rear springs were removed from a 1958 Minor 1000 saloon and they appear original as there were signs that spring pins were removed for the first time. The bushes and pins have the MOWOG sign and pins at the rear have BSF thread. The front pin has MOWOG stamped on the large diameter head and has UNF thread. The head height is ½” whereas the replacement pins available are thinner than the original. I have grit blasted the pins and most of them are in good condition and suitable for re-use. Few of them have pitted surfaces due to corrosion and I am considering if they too can be used as the pin is in contact with the rubber bush and no requirement to have a smooth surface. Any comments or advice would be appreciated.

Does anyone have an original spring fitted to a UK assembled car to compare?

[Arthur the Minor]

when rebuilding rear leaf springs, should they be lubricated in any way? Mine seem to be very stiff (1966 Traveller)

[bmcecosse]

No - any lub will just attract dirt/grit which will then act as a 'grinding paste' . In the past it was 'the done thing' to lub springs on more upmarket cars -and then wrap the spring up inside a gaitor. Hardly necessary on a humble Minor. The interaction of the dry spring leaves gives a certain amount of self-damping to the spring - helping the rather inadequate lever arm dampers! These are worth draining and refilling with SAE 40 oil - the difference will amaze you......