Ensuring longevity of rear springs

[lornemalvo]

The more I read up on this, the more confused I get. I bought new rear leaf springs from SNG Barratt, and note that they have no friction pads or buttons between the leaves. Before I install them, can anyone please advise on the best way to treat them./ My restorer has suggested wrapping in Denso tape, others recommend painting, whilst using oil or grease are other recommendations. I have also read, although from non Jaguar sources, about UHMD low friction tape, installed between the leaves of the spring. My concerns are - optimum performance of the spring, absence of squeaks, and longevity.
I would be grateful for any advice, as I need to make a decision as soon as possible

[340jag]

I rebuilt my springs , there was not much left in the way of the rubber pads , buttons , I made new out of polycarbonate , the leafs I pained , then brushed plenty of waxoil mixed with oil on each leaf as I rebuilt them , I don't take my car out in the wet , so it should last a good few years , I don't think it matters to much on what you do , the movement of the springs will soon wear away paint grease oil or the like !

[lornemalvo]

I appreciate that rely, but having just joined the JEC, it's a bit disappointing to receive only one reply. I'm sure there must be a lot of experience out there. I've found the option of UHMW tape being discussed on other forums, so was hoping that members of this forum might also have gone through this process, using UHMW or other methods. My springs are new, with no rubber buttons or anything else in between the leaves. I'm sure I can improve on metal to metal.

[Ronniebiggs]

Don't be concerned by the number of replies! Few responses can mean no-one feels they have the expertise to comment, or they've never come across the problem.

I replaced the rear springs on my Mk2 and did nothing to them. As mentioned, the relative movement of the leaves will soon rub away any paint etc - but it will also rub away rust! Keep driving the thing about and you don't need to worry about corrosion. It also helps to chuck it around a lot to fully exercise the suspension; seems to work for me.

Jay

[lornemalvo]

Hi Jay
That's a fair point, and has occurred to me, but I've had a far better response from a couple of other sites, although opinions vary widely. I was a bit concerned that some springs now sold have anti friction pads, and some do not. Metal to metal does not seem to be best solution in terms of noise (squeaks etc., spring compliance and wear. Once an area becomes worn, it would inhibit movement even further. I don't envisage having my springs off again any time soon, so thought I may as well try to get this right. I'm also fitting poly bushes throughout so want the maximum amount of compliance from the springs.
I've ordered some UHMW tape, because I managed to get some at a bargain price. The use of UHMW seems a lot more common (on springs) in the USA , and I thought I'd give it a try. It's very low friction and will not attract grit etc in the same way as grease etc. I may then follow the advice in my original handbook and give them an occasional light spray of oil