The stock syncro springs are 450 lb/inch.  My notes say 785 lbs./inch for the
rears, but i think this is wrong.  I will talking to the Betts engineer tuesday
and will confirm then and get the length.

"James S. Cohen" wrote:

> 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