need source for long, weak compression springs

[DavisDad]

Originally Posted by mrnoble

We are looking for compression springs that are thin gauge (<.06 wire diameter), weak (around 10-20 lbs spring rate constant), narrow (between .65 and 1.125 OD), and long (3 ft. or longer). McMaster doesn't have anything that weak. I've been looking all weekend. Any ideas for a source? Thanks!

You can pretty easily make springs from wire. Choose a pipe (PVC or steel) of somewhat smaller diameter than the final spring diameter. Mark with pen or chalk the disire spiral (pitch). Wrap wire tightly around the pipe. I put the pipe in my lathe and turn the pipe while guiding the wire.