Leaf Springs

[C. Poole]

My 1988 Grand Wagoneer has 140,000 miles on it. I installed new RS 5000 shocks on it about 3,000 miles ago. I am wondering if replacing the leaf springs (front and rear) would make it ride any better - it tends to bounce around on rough roads (paved). I can hear the shocks as they absorb the impact and I am wondering if the leaf springs are no longer doing their job. I have looked at the springs and none of them are broken as far as I can tell. Is the rough ride to be expected? How long do leaf springs usually last? How much do new leaf springs cost? Thanks for any information.

[ibnfe]

Normally springs will either start sagging or you will see individual leaves crack when the springs are worn out. The trend in our rigs are the saggy rear end. Some of the rough ride comes from the forward hung shackles on the front end. I guess what I'm saying is that it is somewhat inherent. You can get softer ride springs if you want.