1950s Rear leaf springs

[gatech1956]

Are the leaf springs for the 54 to 57 Cadillac the same?

[Roger Zimmermann]

54 to 56 probably yes. But there are differences between models. Most probably, 57 rear springs are different because the frame is new for this year.
Sorry, I'm away from home and don't have parts list with me.

[Warren Rauch #4286]

   It is more complicated than just model. 1957's are all by themselves. In 56 and 57 ,Cadillac used 2 suppliers .Complete springs interchange ,but types A&B have different profiles and ends.
      Most 1956 models are on their own. series 75,1954-56. do interchange. 1954 and 1955 generally are the same by model except convertible models,that you need to know serial numbers to get the right one. Models with air ,use heavy duty springs.  Cadillac Group# 17.0015
 
  My rule for used springs . Get the pair. From a heavier model in possible. 


 For what its worth, they can't be considering load and spring rates.
Hollander (1959 book)  Rear Spring    #11;;  2 1/2 wide x25 1/2 front bushing center   to bolt x31 bolt to rear bushing center x  1 1/8  bushings
  fits:  Cadillac 54-57 , 58-59 Coml

  You can sometimes cold work an old spring. Take it all apart. Don't Heat! re-arch the leaves one by one (bend them to create  more curve). If they don't break,it will raise the car when put back together. Often short lived. My brother Ed, is still running a 1946 Chevy after 40 years and doing it twice.

Warren

[gatech1956]

Thank you for the information. I have one other question regarding the gas tank strap. I understand there are two lengths for the 56 Cadillac I have one for the 56 that is two long almost 40 inches, what the length of the shorter one for the 56 Coupe DeVille

[Cadman-iac]

  The straps on my 56 CDV are 34.5 inches long, add a half inch if you are measuring the loop on the end.

 Rick

[Lexi]

I checked my two original 1956 Cadillac Master Parts List publications, (hardback and soft), both with updates good for February 1st, 1957. Under Group 12.3252, (Support, Fuel Tank); part #145 5654 is noted as for (quote): "1950 thru 1956 exc. CC". So all the same length except for Commercial Chassied vehicles, if I read that correctly. Length is not stated. I am assuming the "Support, Fuel Tank", is GM's way of saying gas tank strap. But for factory 1956 Cadillac models, they don't mention different gas tank straps as being available, just one.

They do mention a different part number for Commercial Chassied vehicles though.

If you still have concerns, I think I have a pair of '56 gas tank straps and if I can locate them, I will measure them for you. Clay/Lexi

Clay/Lexi