Changing Leaf Spring - Patrol MQ 83 Diesel SD33

I did this for my MQ when I had one. It made the ride a lot quieter, as the rubber bushes absorbed some of the suspension vibration that the steel bushes didn't. I can't remember if I had to change the shackle pins - I think I did because they were worn. The tapered length spring pack improved the handling a bit, but adding real shockies (in my case I used OME) made a huge difference.
Regards

I replaced the shackle bushes on my old MQ many years ago.

It was not fun and I ended up calling a mate who was a Cat Field Service mechaninc. He brought his complete tool kit (field service van).

With his assistance and special tool number BBH (Bl&$dy Big Hammer) used in conjunction with the oxy set it went a lot better.

It made an enormous difference to the car and was well worth doing. I am not sure abut the pro's and cons of the different springs but I would think new shackles and bushes at the same time would make sense.

Duncs

Most aftermarket springs for these are sold as MQ\K. They do fit. The tapered end springs make the world of difference, and if you put a good set of shocks you wont know yourself. The springs won't only help your ride but will help your wheel travel also as the standard springs are very stiff. A good idea when looking for springs is to talk to a workshop that actually makes springs, there are a few ofthem around. They are not that expensive and they can make springs to do exactly what you want (ride height, ride comfort, load bearing capacity etc.) He will also be able to tell you if your expectations are unreasonable. Worth a look.
Tanka.