Any one running Maier 165 lb leaf springs? I'm still trying to solve my wheel rubbing issue so I talked with Maier today. Everything i have read is how good they are and I would like to use them, but they only have 1.25" drop and my tires are rubbing now. I know my springs are 45 years old, so would I be better to get a standard height leaf and forget the Maier's? Also looking at Bilstein shocks. Advice please.

 

What tires, rim, and backspacing are you running now?

 

If your tires are rubbing, suspension work isn't going to fix it. You need to fix the clearance issue, either by rolling your fender lips or by changing your tire size or wheel backspacing.

That said, I'd love to have a set of custom valved Bilsteins from Maier

 

Rear tires and wheels are AR500 17X8 with 4.50" backspacing. Tires are BF Goodrich G-Force SS AS 245/45/17. I was told by Newstalgia Wheel this would work. My problem could be several things but I am hoping it is 45 year old springs. It could also be the rear-end is a new prototype 3.92 rear by Legend Gear and Transmission. I am not sure it is the exact same width as the stock one. I know it is bigger because I had to get a shorter drive shaft made. I know rolling the fender is not a major issue,but I have a new paint job that cost me several thousand $. I hate to ruin it. I also know that might be my last resort. It is always a chance the paint will crack even if it is heated. I need new springs anyway so this was a good excuse. I wonder if some more can be cut off the back to move it in closer to the inner fender well? I do not have a mile on the wheels and tires and they hit me for over 2K. I don't have an option except to figure out how to make them work.

 

Please read my reply below to Dodgestang but I have a question. If after 45 years my springs are sagging a few inches, why won't new springs help get it back off the tire? Thanks.

 

Tires/wheels either fit under the fender, or they don't. Even if you replace the sagged rear leaf springs, one good bump will still send the tire into the fender and possibly cut the sidewall. Valid solutions are: flare the fenders, change tire size, change wheels.

Although, apparently you're stuck with a brand new set of rims. Don't know what to tell you there.

 

If I would roll the lip, it would clear. I only need about 1/2". If this doesn't work, then that is the cheaper route but risky with new paint. That is sure cheaper than another $1000 for new tires and rims. I wonder if AR could cut some more off the back> The info says up to 5.75inch backspacing. Mine is 4.5. Thanks.