All,

I got the SA Heavy Duty springs measured today. The fronts were 500lbs/in.,
and the rears were 280lbs/in.

I did not get a chance to remove the stock springs from one of my "herd" of
Vans, so I don't know how much stiffer these really are.

I'm somewhat skeptical of the device this guy used to measure the rate
however. It was VERY old, and beaten up. I have NO idea if he ever
calibrates it.

It's probably accurate for springs tested on IT. I dont' know if it has
relevance to springs tested on another tester somewhere else in the country.

I'll take the stock springs off and get them tested next week.

Also, my book on chassis engineering clearly states that the springs ONLY
support the weight of the body, and the weight of the chassis is
irrelevent. Therefore, the extra weight of the syncros is not borne by the
springs since it's on the chassis.

So, it would seem, that syncros don't need spring rates any higher than a
2wd although they may need LONGER springs.

If anyone disagrees with this, feel free to open a thread to debate it!

I'm NOT an expert on springs, I have read books, and have experience with
my GTis and Corrado. So, if there ARE any experts, let's hear from them.

Meanwhile, I'll consult some of the racers on my other lists, and see what
they say... (of course, this is all rather moot since there are only a few
springs even available for the Vanagons) ;)

James