steel in springs

[v-6]

anyone know what kind of steel in 1963 IH truch front springs there about 1/4"x3".
vern

 

[Dave Bowen]

Normally, truck spring steel is 5160 or very close to it. Back then, I don't know if it would be the same or not.

 

[rocketmann]

The only way to know for sure is to hack off a small chunk and send it off for an analysis....Should cost +/- $40 for a chemical break down of the steel.

 

[mdoyle]

I have tested MANY and not found any that were not 5160. I know I know..... yeah it could be this or it could be that, but that is what I know FWIW.
Does it make it worth straightening a leaf spring for a new maker without a forge when new 5160 is readily available and inexpensive? Not for me to judge but certainly something you need to consider.
Matt

 

[Keith_H]

isn't its expensive to determine carbon content (which is important)?

 

[AcridSaint]

You need to know the alloy content as well as carbon content, knowing solely carbon content could make you take things way out of perspective.

The cost was mentioned above.