18k front axle

[Bjt]

Looking at a 1985 RD686SX that is advertised as having a 18k front axle but only has 3 leaf springs with a 3” spacer block between the axle and springs. Is the 3 leaf springs correct for the 18k axle and if it is can a multi leaf spring stack be installed by removing the spacers for added stability? Using it as a log truck. Thx 

[cruiseliner64]

My Cruiseliner has an 18k front axle and 3 leaf spring/spacer arrangement.You could add more leafs but it woud make the ride very harsh..

Paul

[mrsmackpaul]

The three leaf spring packs like that were a phase most manufacturers (including Mack) went through in the 80's, apparently gave a better ride than a whole lot of thin leaves 

Those spacer blocks are common on all Macks in Australia from this era

Most trucks have maybe 3 inches of spacers, gives a much tougher look and is very different to the American look of very low slung trucks and sitting on the floor

 

Paul

[Mark T]

They're taper leaf. They can be rated fairly high as far as weight goes, and ride better than multi leaf. Usually not too hard to change from one style to the other, but requires more than just different springs. (U bolts, riser blocks, sometimes steering levers)

[70mackMB]

4 hours ago, mrsmackpaul said:

American look of very low slung trucks and sitting on the floor

And don't forget the shifter up to the roof! And the second and third shifter just to operate an air range/splitter valve.    .....Hippy 

[Joey Mack]

Too funny Hippy... and I thought i was a smart a$$ with the same thoughts.. 🍻

[mowerman]

Couldn’t help but comment on this I haven’t really seen too many people riding around my way in  my day but yes I have seen them. I can’t understand how they could see anything sitting down like that. Also, the reason I say my day is because I hardly go anywhere anymore only only time I see any big rigs usually is on my way to the gym. There’s one intersection where there’s quite a few big trucks going across a main artery mostly dirt trucks and mixers