I made my 3" scale ones from spring steel strip, once cut and rolled to the correct shape I treated them to a bath of molten lead to make them stay in shape. Springs do not "scale" very well, if you use correct 2" scale thickness and quantity of leaves, you will find they are pretty much solid, I have heard of people substituting some of the leaves with something flexible like Tufnol to try and overcome this problem.

Having said that I wouldn't worry too much about having working springs on such a small model anyway especially on the back axle, you might be giving yourself more problems with things like drive gear meshing etc. As for the front I would just make it look right even if it doesn't work.

I am sure there will be more responses with advice for you, but that is my 2p worth.

Phil

Edited By Phil P on 03/01/2016 19:12:56

Reeves do it in 24" lengths, 16swg would be closest and they have several width in the drop down, Blackgates, Polly etc also do it but Reeves was just easier to look at.

The annealed strip/sheet is easier to work than a ready hardened spring

Many years ago I needed to make springs for a Clayton Lorry and found a small firm in Sheffield that made springs for false legs etc. This was the correct shape with rounded edges and supplied not hardened so could still be put through rollers to give it shape but was still springy enough.

I've tried to find the company but without success but did find this company that supplies small quantities and accepts Paypal or credit cards.

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As usual, I have no connections with this firm whatsoever.