How to Replace Front Leaf Springs on Club Car DS

Quick answer

Replace sagging or worn front leaf springs on your Club Car DS (1982 and newer) with a heavy-duty 2-leaf kit. Jack the front, remove the wheel and old spring, install the new spring with new hardware, torque to spec, and test before driving.

Step-by-step replacement process

1. 1. Secure and lift the cart: Park on level ground, chock the rear wheels, and jack up the front axle. Place jack stands under the frame rails—never rely on the jack alone. Remove the front wheel on the side you're working on. Always use jack stands. A slipping jack can cause serious injury.
2. 2. Support the spring and remove hardware: Place a second jack or sturdy block under the axle to relieve tension on the spring. Remove the two bolts at the frame bracket and the two bolts at the axle bracket. Keep the hardware—you may reuse it if in good condition, but new bolts are recommended. If bolts are rusted or rounded, replace them with new Grade 8 hardware.
3. 3. Remove the old spring: Lower the jack slowly until the spring is free. Slide it out from under the frame and axle bracket. Inspect the rubber bushings at the spring eyes—replace them if cracked or flattened. Old bushings can cause squeaks and premature wear on the new spring.
4. 4. Install the new spring: Position the new heavy-duty 2-leaf spring in the brackets. Insert the bolts and hand-tighten them. Align the spring eyes so they sit evenly in the bushings. Do not fully tighten yet—the spring needs to settle under load first. Hand-tighten only. Final torque is done after lowering the cart.
5. 5. Lower and torque to spec: Remove the support from under the axle, then lower the cart so its full weight rests on the springs. Torque the frame bracket bolts to 30 ft-lb and the axle bracket bolts to 45 ft-lb. Repeat on the other side. Torque specs: frame bolts 30 ft-lb, axle bolts 45 ft-lb. Over-tightening can strip threads or crack brackets.
6. 6. Test and check alignment: Reinstall the wheels, lower the cart completely, and take a slow test drive. Listen for creaks or pops. After 10 miles, re-check bolt torque—new springs often settle slightly. Re-torque after the first 10 miles. Settling can loosen bolts by a few ft-lb.

Product facts

• Heavy Duty Front Leaf Spring Replacement for Club Car DS - 2-Leaf: OEM-style Heavy Duty Front Leaf Spring Replacement - 2-Leaf, fits Club Car DS models from 1982 and newer. It provides a direct-fit upgrade that restores front ride height and supports heavier loads without requiring modifications.