Leaf Springs, five leaves or seven?

[ianmack]

My '54 series II saloon still has its original seven leaf springs but in a very worn state. Not long after mine was made saloons changed to five leaf springs. What is the best option for replacement? Was the change an improvement or just for cheapness?

[bmcecosse]

I would fit 7 leaf - but it depends on the intended use of the car... If you find it too hard (which I doubt..) - you can always remove a leaf, or two.

[IslipMinor]

The change to 5-leaf springs was with the 1098 engine and whilst maybe a bit softer and more comfortable, are more prone to axle tramp.

[stevey]

your 7 leaves are thinner than the new 7 leaf for travellers. you cant get the thinner set any more. new 5 leaf would be a straight swop

[mike.perry]

The Minor was originally fitted with 7 leaf springs 7/32" thick, total 1 17/32", 38.92mm.
These were changed to 5 leaf springs 1/4" thick, total 1 1/4", 31.75mm
The Traveller was fitted with 7 leaf springs 1/4" thick, total 1 3/4", 44.45mm

When I bought my Series MM, 1978, the springs were almost flat so I changed them for another set of 7 leaf springs. These were Traveller springs but I found the ride too hard and the back end tried to overtake the front on roundabouts (crossplies). I swapped them for 5 leaf springs which gave a much better ride and handling.

[ianmack]

Five leaves it is then, err on the side of comfort. Thanks for all the advice.