Install Guide: Ford Transit Helper Springs

This guide covers MAD helper spring kits for the Ford Transit (V363/V364 generations). Use it alongside the official kit manuals for torque specs and exact part orientations.

Kits covered: HV-068210/ HV-068290, HV-068250/ HV-068300, HV-068328/ HV-068368, HV-068260/ HV-068310/ HV-068340, HV-068280.
Note: Special Duty (SD) kits for Transit use the same installation procedures/manuals as the corresponding HV kits.

Fitment & variants (quick reference)

  • Platform: Ford Transit (V363/V364). Check VIN/axle code and GVW before ordering.
  • Drive types: RWD and 4WD applications common; exclusions vary by kit (see PDFs).
  • Twin rear wheels: Some HV kits exclude twin (DRW); the SD-068280 combo is for vehicles with twin rear wheels (see shock length note in manual).
  • Model years: Refer to each PDF. Many kits cover ~08/2013–05/2019. Excl. e-Transit unless noted.
  • Chassis cab: Certain kits include chassis-cab fitment (see PDF header/notes).

Safety & skill level

  • Work on level ground. Chock wheels; set parking brake.
  • Lift points per workshop manual. Support body and axle with rated stands.
  • Eye protection and gloves required. Torque fasteners to OE spec unless the kit manual specifies otherwise.
  • Helper springs improve support and stability; they do not change GVWR or towing ratings.

Tools & supplies

  • Socket/Torx set, breaker bar, torque wrench
  • Bottle jack or spring tensioner (to create clearance)
  • Pry bar, rubber mallet, anti-seize
  • Paint pen for alignment marks; tape measure

Pre-checks (5 min)

  1. Record ride height: center of wheel to fender lip (L/R). Keep for after-install.
  2. Inspect brake hoses, ABS wiring, and any level-sensor linkage for slack and routing.
  3. Note any bump-stop spacers/raisers or aftermarket parts on/near the axle.

Rear installation — common steps (Transit)

  1. Loosen rear wheel nuts (if removing wheels). Raise vehicle and support safely.
  2. Support the axle. If instructed by the kit manual, release lower shock bolts (both sides) to increase droop. Keep hardware.
  3. Lower the axle to create room for the helper spring. Use a spring tensioner or place a bottle jack between chassis and axle as per the manual. Watch brake hoses/cables.
  4. Fit the upper seat at the OE bump-stop frame; fit the lower seat/plate on the axle with the specified orientation (see PDF figures).
  5. Install the helper spring onto the seats. Ensure the spring sits perpendicular to the axle.
  6. Re-raise the axle to normal position. Refit lower shock bolts and torque to OE spec at ride height.

Kit notes & distinctions

  • HV-068210 / HV-068290: Coil helper springs for Transit; verify axle configuration (RWD/4WD), exclusions may include twin rear wheels. Typical install time ≈ 45 minutes per side.
  • HV-068250 / HV-068300: Variant for different axle/frame combinations; follow the lower plate orientation in the manual precisely.
  • HV-068328 / HV-068368: Covers additional axle/frame variants; cross-check the figure references before seating the spring.
  • HV-068260 / HV-068310 / HV-068340: Trio covered by one manual; pay attention to the specific hardware pack callouts.
  • HV-068280: Used as reference for SD-068280(Special Duty). SD kits combine springs and shocks; observe the shock length specification in the manual (max/min) before installation.

After installation

  • Re-measure ride height (L/R) and note the change.
  • Adjust headlight aim. If equipped with ADAS (camera/radar), perform OEM checks.
  • Road-test over bumps and turns; listen for contact or clunks.
  • Re-torque fasteners after ~100 miles (160 km).

Troubleshooting

Spring not sitting square

Re-check lower plate orientation and center the upper seat on the bump-stop frame. Raise/lower axle slightly and rotate the spring to seat it.

Brake hose looks tight at full droop

Do not over-extend. Support the axle higher during install or disconnect bracket per workshop manual, then reattach and verify slack at ride height.

Ride too firm when empty

Helper springs are tuned for load. If the van runs empty most days, select a progressive/variable-load tuned kit per application notes in the PDFs.

Notes

  • Torque: use the kit manuals and OE specs for shocks, seats, and brackets.
  • Compatibility: Verify axle type (standard vs. wide), drive (RWD/4WD), and twin/single rear wheels before installation.
  • Ratings: These kits improve support and stability; they do not change GVWR/tow ratings.