I try the hardware store first. Auto stores generally stock springs for
carburetor return applications, and of course brake springs which are very
heavy and strong.

for very small compression and extension springs, the VCR parts repair
places have kits available. I think Electronix online is one source.

Yes, I agree with the other posts. When running across springs from broken
or spare equipment , I usually salvage them out and put them in my
collection. never throw away a spring which you happen to come across. I
have used my collection and it saved me on more than one occasion.

Once I had to get a brake return spring for a mobile home brake assembly. It
was weird. most brake return springs are asymmetric; i.e. the body of the
spring is not centered with respect to the ends. This one was symmetrical.
Couldn't find it. I did finally break down and purchase the McMaster Carr
Spring bender. I think it was about $150, but it is my insurance when I cant
find the spring I need. It makes left and right springs, compression and
extension of variable pitches. They also have a neat tool which makes the
loops on the ends of the springs. Make sure you get a good pair of music
wire cutters and different size spring wire. If the mandrel you need isn't
in the assortment which comes with the bender, one can be gotten from drill
rod, or ultimately turned on a lathe. I believe springs can be wound on a
lathe also but I don't have experience with that as of yet.

--
don paolino
"Proctologically Violated©®" wrote in message
...
Awl--

At times I need springs for prototypes, usually compression. I have Lee
Springs out by me in Brooklyn, NY, and I use Century Spring, who has an
extensive catalog of springs.

But the prices!!!! Goodgawd, you can get weak at the knee--a little bitty
spring, like what you'd find in a camera shutter or a bic click pen, can
be
$4-5!! For ONE!!
Man, now I save every spring from every pen I come across....

For non-critical/exact specs/geometries, a good hardware store has a stack
of parts drawers w/ a good selection, if you don't need die springs or
anything too fine, at a relative bargain price. And I've had springs
made,
in relatively short runs, for very good prices.
But one'sies/two'sies are killers.

Any idears? Sources??
----------------------------
Mr. P.V.'d
formerly Droll Troll