Shortened Composite Springs

A standard length steel transverse leaf spring for the 63-82 Corvette is 49″ long across the top of the arch as shown above. This is the most accurate way to measure the rear spring for 63-82 Corvettes.

If you have a composite spring that you want to replace, and not sure of the length, the best way to ensure you get another at the same length is to remove the spring entirely and measure it across the top of the arch, tip to tip. Most springs will be 48″ long but a 1″ shortened spring at 47″ long was very common for those with offset trailing arms and wide 15″ wheels on C2 & C3 models.

Narrowed chassis cars typically run a 47″ long spring but have seen them as short as 45.5″ when tubbing the rear chassis of a Corvette. If you are running an unmodified frame, 47″ is the shortest you should need to go.

Van Steel composite springs are only produced in two sizes but can be modified to be even shorter for custom applications for an additional cost. Our standard spring is 48″ (considered half inch shorter than factory) which there are no adverse affects for factory t-arm Covettes and also works with those running offsets and wide 18″ wheels. For those running 17″ or smaller wheels, our half inch shorten spring at 47″ (considered 1″ shorter than factory) may be needed for plenty of tire clearance.

When running a 47″ spring you will see some adjuster bolt to spring contact due to the extra angle on the bolt from the t-arm to the spring. These will wear on the spring to a certain point and stop. This is unavoidable for these style springs but will not affect the spring rate or longevity of your composite spring.

If you are unsure of the spring you need to order, or have a custom setup you need assistance with, just give us a call (800-418-5397), or email us (salesteam@vansteel.com).