Why Springs Rates Are Important

[@jimmyvalhalla1939]

Awesome Mark. This is gonna be a fun build…. Or re-build.

[@EmbarkWithMark]

Thank you! I hope so!!!

[@shiftintosunshine]

I've been running Rubicon Express progressive coil springs and they do not hold any weight. I hit the bump stops on the trail all day. Switching to OME now, thanks!

[@dad3562]

Which spring load did you go with and why? Standard, medium, heavy? I use mine as a DD and hunting. Travel loaded with gear, dump the gear, then hit the trail. Would you recommend standard load?

[@shiftintosunshine]

@@dad3562 I went with OME 2620 600lb and it's a great upgrade. Combined with the Falcon 3.3 shocks it's like a super jeep.

[@dad3562]

@@shiftintosunshine that’s awesome!

[@danimalutk]

Great videos, Mark. How did you like the ride of the MC springs? Did you find them stiff or harsh?

[@EmbarkWithMark]

Thank you! The ride was great! I paired them with Old Man Emu shocks and we found the ride to be really nice. Especially before we started adding all the overland gear/weight.

[@danimalutk]

@@EmbarkWithMark thanks for the quick response! I have an 06 LJ with worn out everything and Metalcloak was recommended. Drove in an LJ with the MC shocks/3.5 coil combo and it was a bit harsh on the road. Couldn’t find any non-bias, non-Currie/MC/RK arguments. Sounds like my thought that shocks may play a big part is correct; seems most say the MC RockSport shocks leave quite a bit to be desired.

[@jimmyvalhalla1939]

I installed ACOS and OME ZJ springs up front on my LJ. I don’t remember which OME springs I got for the rear , but they are very heavy and it rides like a tank. I have a soft top and it’s loaded with fridge and tools all the time but way too stiff. I am gonna get with Dirk at DPG and see if we can come up with a better riding solution. I don’t want to give up load height, so who knows, I may be stuck with the less than ideal ride comfort.

[@EmbarkWithMark]

Interesting. So I went with LJ springs, but the lighter of the two options that are available. I run everything you do, plus a hard too, and a roof rack. So I probably have a bit more weight. I have been working on changing the bushing so the short driving I did in it felt really nice!

[@jimmyvalhalla1939]

@@EmbarkWithMark I think there are 3 options available for the rear. Medium, heavy, and ridiculous…. I chose the latter. If you want I can look up the part numbers from my order sheet.

[@EmbarkWithMark]

Yea, I’d like to see which you ordered vs what I have. That might help you make a decision as well.

[@jimmyvalhalla1939]

2934 ZJ Coils 2996 rear coils 60047L and 60049L shocks

[@JimmyDevere]

Hi. I'm trying to decide on lift kits. But I am not understanding your reasoning for switching coils. Why put in OME and loose travel instead of replacing with new MC springs? I can understand if you want a lower lift but you said you installing a body lift? You mentioned ride quality. Is your experience with MC that it won't ride well at 3.5" even with all the adjustment? I understand what you said about the MC dual rate being like a spacer but I don't see how that's a bad thing as every coil has a limit and you still have plenty linear coil left to ride on. Or is the issue more about propper shock valving and you are looking for a more predictable spring rate so you can get shocks out side of the MC offerings? I suspect the issue was not in the geometry but in the weight distribution you mentioned at the end. That gets forgotten often especially with everyone wanting to "correct" the factory rake and then load it up with gear lol. Having driven both, what are your thoughts? Nice looking Jeep BTW.

[@JimmyDevere]

OK. Nevermind a I missed the very end where you basically said you were disappointed in how the MC springs didn't seem to last you. I'm new to Jeeps but with lifted trucks the springs are a replaceable part if you load weight on them unless you get something like a triple rate spring so it will ride harsh. My OME leaf springs in the rear of my truck are basically flat now after seven years (really only lasted 3-4 years) and I do notice a difference in handling with some weight off the front tires. I think it's a give and take with springs. Softer rate for comfort but you may sacrifice longevity.