V8 Rear Spring Change
Right rear wheel way back in the arch ...
![](images/sr0701.jpg)
... compared to the left rear.
![](images/sr0702.jpg)
Broken main leaf, the gap showing the other leaves and hence the axle has slipped back by about an inch.
![](images/sr0703.jpg)
Rear shackle almost fully extended backwards, but at least it prevented the axle moving back any further and hitting the back of the arch, with who knows what damage.
![](images/sr0704.jpg)
Broken spring removed from the car showing the gap between the broken halves and how the spring has slipped through the clips.
![](images/v8s03.jpg)
New (left) and old shackle bushes, showing the very much thicker flange (and increased overall length) of the new item.
![](images/v8s02.jpg)
Shackle squeezed in a small sash cramp before the lock-washers could be fitted and nuts started.
![](images/v8s01.jpg)
Springs fully fitted and weight on the wheels, showing a decent curve in the rebound strap, and about 3 1/2" between the top of the bump-stop pedestal and the bump-rubber.
![](images/v8s05.jpg)
Even with rubber bumper V8 springs, which are the hardest on any MGB, the shackle is still pointing backwards slightly.
![](images/v8s06.jpg)
Comparing nearly new rubber bumper roadster springs with old V8. Front eyes lined up at one end ....
![](images/v8s07.jpg)
... shows the 'eye to eye' length about 1/2" longer on the old V8 spring (right).
![](images/v8s08.jpg)
This is caused by the shape of the old V8 spring having become slightly triangular rather than a smooth curve (V8 spring behind) ...
![](images/v8s09.jpg)
... as well as having lost about 1/2" of free arch. Still, surprisingly little change for what are almost certainly original springs having done 197,000 miles.
![](images/v8s10.jpg)