Tech Question - Mono vs. Multi Leaf

Q -Mike,

I am going to rebuild the rear suspension on my 1969 Camaro (307/Powerglide). It came stock with mono-leaf rear springs. What, if any, is the advantage in putting on multi-leaf springs instead?
Thanks for your help!
Dan

A -Dan,

If you have an axle which is set up for mono leaf springs there is absolutely no advantage of installing multi leaf springs in place of the mono leaf's, In fact there are draw backs.

One being cost. In addition to the regular Install Kit you must also use the Conversion Spacer Pads.

The mono leaf spring does not have the center bolt head sticking out of the top of the spring and there is no corresponding hole in the spring seat on the axle. Therefore a spacer plate must be installed between the top of the multi leaf spring and the spring seat. In order to allow room for the spacer the urethane axle pad is not used.

This brings us to the second draw back, stability. Notice the top of the axle pad for the mono leaf, it has what we call "speed bumps" on it. These bumps locate in matching grooves on the spring seat which helps lock the spring in place. The conversion spacer pad does not have these bumps. Therefore the spring is held in place with only the u-bolts or t-bolts. However, in most cases they will provide enough strength to hold the spring in place.

Bottom line, I would advise sticking with the mono. - Mike