Installation Instructions: HD Progressive Leaf Springs for Ford E150 | | E250 | E350
Fits:
Ford E-Series E150, E250, E350 (Years 1992–Present)
Rated for:
Custom rear axle weight (GVWR-based)
Feature:
Built-in lift — no add-a-leaf or blocks required
Ideal for:
Camper builds, overlanding vans, work rigs, ambulance conversions, and any heavy rear-load setup.
Tools & Materials Required
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Jack & jack stands (or lift)
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Wheel chocks
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21mm & 24mm sockets and wrenches
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Breaker bar or impact wrench
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Torque wrench
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Pry bar
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Replacement U-bolts (included or recommended)
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Anti-seize or thread locker
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Optional: Penetrating oil (PB Blaster)
Installation Time
2–4 hours (garage or shop setting)
Pre-Installation Notes
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These are custom-rated springs. Do not install unless they match your van’s loaded rear axle weight.
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Lift is built into the spring — do not combine with lift blocks.
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Install with the thicker, progressive end toward the rear shackle.
Step-by-Step Installation
1. Prep the Van
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Park on level ground. Set the parking brake. Chock the front wheels.
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Loosen rear lug nuts slightly (don’t remove yet).
2. Raise and Secure
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Jack up the rear end. Use jack stands under the frame rails.
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Let the axle droop. Place jack under the axle for control.
3. Remove Wheels
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Take off both rear wheels.
4. Support the Axle
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Use a floor jack or stands to support the axle. Don’t let it hang unsupported.
5. Disconnect the Leaf Springs
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Remove U-bolts holding the axle to the springs. Discard old U-bolts (they should not be reused).
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Unbolt the spring eye bolts (front and rear).
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Remove the factory leaf pack.
6. Install the HD Springs
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Mount the new leaf spring into the front hanger first. Insert the front eye bolt loosely.
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Swing the rear into the shackle and insert the rear eye bolt.
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Don’t fully tighten eye bolts until the van is on the ground with full weight on the suspension.
7. Align the Axle
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Lower the axle onto the center pin of the new leaf spring.
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Make sure it seats fully in the spring pad.
8. Install New U-Bolts
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Use new U-bolts and torque them in a crisscross pattern to spec:
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Torque Spec: 100–120 ft-lbs (check your U-bolt kit instructions)
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9. Tighten Eye Bolts
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Reinstall wheels and lower the van to the ground.
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Once fully loaded, torque spring eye bolts to:
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Front and rear eye bolts: 129 ft-lbs (typical for E-series; confirm with service manual)
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10. Final Checks
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Bounce the van to settle the suspension.
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Double-check all torques.
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Re-torque U-bolts after first 100 miles.
After Installation
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Expect a stiffer unloaded ride — normal for progressive-rate springs.
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Ride will smooth out with proper load.
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Check alignment if ride height changed significantly.
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Re-torque everything at 500 miles.
Questions or need spring rating support?
Contact Richard with your van’s axle weight and build specs.