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Old 01-01-2021, 06:26 PM   #1
RonLey
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Default Filling Pits on Leaf Springs

I have some pitting on my springs that I want to fill. I am thinking that either JB Weld or All-Metal would be good choices since they should hold up. My concern is if they would be flexible enough or if fiberglass filler would be better. Paint,then use some Slip Plate between.


Anyone have any experience that they could share;good/bad or try something else?


Thanks

Last edited by RonLey; 01-01-2021 at 06:35 PM.
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Old 01-01-2021, 06:38 PM   #2
J Franklin
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Default Re: Filling Pits on Leaf Springs

You could do better spending your time on something other than that. If the springs are that bad it might be time for replacement. If they are not real bad you could run a grinder on the edges and remove the pits.
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Old 01-01-2021, 07:18 PM   #3
1crosscut
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Default Re: Filling Pits on Leaf Springs

Ron I would give the J.B. Weld a go. The amount of flex in the small localized area of a pit would be very small.
Just as a side note. To combat sagging of an epoxy on any areas that are not flat I mix a small amount and wait a specific amount of time such as 10 or 15 minutes before mixing the the epoxy I will be using. By doing that I can keep checking the first little bit I mixed up to see when it starts to set. Then I can apply the main batch knowing that I won't have to keep rotating it around long before it starts to set.
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Old 01-01-2021, 07:18 PM   #4
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Default Re: Filling Pits on Leaf Springs

Replace the springs. It is money well spent.

Enjoy.
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Old 01-01-2021, 07:44 PM   #5
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Default Re: Filling Pits on Leaf Springs

Unfortunately I don't have unlimited funds and have to work within a budget. That's why I asked what would work for a work around.
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Old 01-01-2021, 07:50 PM   #6
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Default Re: Filling Pits on Leaf Springs

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Quote:
Originally Posted by RonLey View Post
Unfortunately I don't have unlimited funds and have to work within a budget. That's why I asked what would work for a work around.
How bad is the pitting ? Do you have a photo ?
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Old 01-01-2021, 08:02 PM   #7
RonLey
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Default Re: Filling Pits on Leaf Springs

It's more cosmetic for the areas seen on the front spring.
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Old 01-01-2021, 08:30 PM   #8
Brentwood Bob
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Default Re: Filling Pits on Leaf Springs

Clean/wire brush and then coat with slip plate.
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Old 01-01-2021, 09:04 PM   #9
KGBnut
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Default Re: Filling Pits on Leaf Springs

If you are just interested in cosmetics, they make spring covers.

https://www.brattons.com/spring-covers.html

They might do the trick for you.

Ken
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Old 01-01-2021, 09:24 PM   #10
McMimmcs
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Default Re: Filling Pits on Leaf Springs

Quote:
Originally Posted by KGBnut View Post
If you are just interested in cosmetics, they make spring covers.

https://www.brattons.com/spring-covers.html

They might do the trick for you.

Ken
Great idea!
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Old 01-01-2021, 10:44 PM   #11
alexiskai
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Default Re: Filling Pits on Leaf Springs

I have these covers and I could take a pic if you want to see what they look like on the car.
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Old 01-01-2021, 10:51 PM   #12
Pete
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Default Re: Filling Pits on Leaf Springs

Filling the pits will NOT work in the major working areas of the spring.(at the ends)
However, grinding the worn ridges on the top end of each leaf off, sanding both sides smooth and applying a heavy coat of molybdenum disulphide (MoS2) spray will keep the spring working for a long time.
NEVER paint spring leaves. Paint is NOT a lubricant.
The MoS2 is a very good rust preventive. It is also much better than graphite for handling heavier loads.
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Old 01-02-2021, 09:56 AM   #13
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Default Re: Filling Pits on Leaf Springs

Quote:
Originally Posted by RonLey View Post
Unfortunately I don't have unlimited funds and have to work within a budget. That's why I asked what would work for a work around.
We’ve all been there. I just have to say, as a Model A owner for over 60 years and obviously an old man. There are a couple of things that need to be right on your car if you are planning on it being SAFE to drive.

Brakes, front end, shocks, and springs. Think of your TV recliner or your bed mattress after 90 years of setting or sleeping on it. Your springs are working 24/7 365.

I would make a list of what really needs to be done, most important items first. Than as I could afford, I would check off the list. Once done right, it’s done and on to the next item.

If your just going to set and look at the car. Than paint or cover them. To me that’s like using filler to fix a rusted out hole. Works for now, but will not last.

I guess that I have my soap box out. Sorry.

Enjoy.
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