n a message dated 2/21/02 3:19:31 PM, steve@SYNCRO.ORG writes:

<< There is NOTHING similar about the springs at all. >>

Steve,

Where have you been?  In this global economy of ours, all parts are the same
regardless of who makes them.  In fact, what's the big deal about springs?
The Krylon Semi-flat Black paint is now drying on the set I just made.

At the risk of inciting your ire, I am going to tell everyone how to make
their own springs.  This is really what you call rolling your own.  First,
get an empty no.10, La Valle San Marzano Italian Peeled Tomatoes can.  Fill
it with cement.  In the spring manufacturing industry we call this the "form"
which is jargon for "spring form".  When the cement has cured, go to Home
Depot and get a coil of 1/2" soft copper K tubing.  Count the coils of the
springs which you plan to replace.  Now carefully wind the copper tubing
around the tomato can filled with cement, i.e., the "form", the SAME number
of times as your original spring.  Shake a can of Krylon for one minute and
shoot the new spring.  Voila!  You're ready for La Baja.

Rich