So I picked up a decent set of Tahoe springs yesterday. I picked them up east of Sagauche, about 1.5 hrs away (still closer than GJ or anyother salvage yards). They seem in good shape. But when I unloaded them into the garage today, I noticed one end had been cut with a grinding wheel. Its 1/16" deep at the worst, and about 3/8" long. I'm afraid its going to start cracking. Is it trash?

Personally I wouldn't be worried about it. With the thickness of the metal there I would think you would be ok. Plus with the bushing/bolt in the stress will be spread out.

X2. If you want peace of mind, just drop a bead in there with the welder.

x2. I'd run it. There isn't much stress on that part on the spring.

I worked in a spring shop for several years and made custom leaf springs and leaf spring packs while there. The loads on that section of spring go opposite of the cut. Spring steel will snap with the right amount of load in the right direction. Your cut slightly weakens the spring across that section but is very unlikely enough to cause it to snap. Never weld spring steel. It crystallizes and becomes extremely brittle. I'd run that spring as is and never worry about it again.

Great info. Thank you.

Not a heavily loaded area. Just leave it as-is.

Thank you.

When I found the cut, I was pretty upset. I had convinced myself I needed to replace the damaged spring.

I appreciate everyone's advice.

Gorilla Glue!