Ah, you know I can't resist. Was hoping for a reaction.
OK, the famous spring question, covered repeatedly in the old forum and yahoo group. If you ask about v-8 or Dana 60 conversions next you'll go in the penalty box!
Some folks worry about the camber and want the tires to sit level unloaded.
I was more concerned about getting a bit better articulation. I'm not a huge believer in rock buggy level articulation since they are not really streetable. Plus with lockers front and rear it's less of an issue.
But I did notice how the pinz felt a bit more stable loaded, less likely to feel tippy when three wheeling. More than just weight in the back.
Rather than cut a dead link off, I decided to try one pair. It works great, sit's level unloaded, though it tends to squat a bit under acceleration. Keeps the rubber on the ground more often in severe terrain, etc.
I believe it also helps in some sand & mud as you are less likely to break the surface when the tire is more flat.
But if I load up with 3-4 people in the back it's a bit much.
I really think air-bags are the best approach, and have a workable scheme penciled out. May try it some day.
Until then, I'll probably go back to two springs, but with the dead links cut off. Or maybe just do one first to try to get an overload effect. Plan to blast & powder coat them first.
I'm carrying more loads now and have learned how to handle 3 wheel tipping more confidently. (John Geesen had it right, hit the gas if you start to get light in the rear)
BTW, there was a nice air bag prototype for 710's posted a while back. Never came to market.
Herbert has a different solution involving lead, which is another approach. Others use sandbags, paver tiles, etc. Also good for slowing down the pinz when you can't handle the bursts of power!
Here's a shot showing freshly mounted swampers with just one spring. They sat even flatter once we moved the vehicle, was a bit over compressed when we dropped the lift:
http://www.pinztrek.com/pinz/pinz_tire6.jpg
Have fun,
Alan
