Hay all, just chasing ideas on what to do to my 1200 ute rear end. I ask because it all needs an overhaul (might be a new TV program idea here). So I am asking what you have done or have seen done and what where the results. I am putting in a CA18DE. Currently my shocks are buggered and my leaf spring bushes are shot. I am chasing a smoother ride and I dont want the rear wheel to lift off the ground if I go too fast around a roundabout.

tv program interesting,

i have heard of r31 diff instead of stock but otherwise get reset leaf springs(low) with an extra leaf and good shockers is all im doing

I have been informed to REMOVE 1 leaf as it softens the ride. Might make a few calls on how much it would cost to cut down a diff just to see what it is worth.

This is my setup: -





I'm running a cut down R31 LSD.
Removed the rider spring + fabricated the lowering blocks 180mm long in an attempt to reduce axle tramp.

I reckon lowering blocks are the way to go as opposed to getting your springs re-set due to losing your spring reaction by using a flatter spring.
Everyone seems to have a different opinion on this, so do what sounds best to you.

New bushes will definitely help things.
You can also try inserting some neoprene (or similar) material between the leaves - Other members have done this with positive results.

i havent done it yet but always wanted to put coupe springs in, with nolethane rubbers and some decent shock absorbers, just with lowering blocks

no problem with stock diff, just get those bluey discs happening, unless you were looking for an lsd equipped option

i doubt a ca18de will trouble the strength of the diff too much, depending how red necked you are

Well i did grow up near IPSWICH so clutch dumping must run in my blood. Whats the go with the coupe springs Vs the ute springs.

coupe ones are softer, they dont have the load spring

Cant I just take the load spring out of mine, or another leaf.

maybe, but im pretty sure the whole set is different, i've always liked standard coupe springs with good shocks, and I would aim for that combo

i think King springs do rear lowered coupe springs, thats what i'm thinking of doing