I had a shear spring failure a few years back myself. Shear springs always have minor cracks in them ... there is a service guide that tells what to look for and how to measure. After owning fivers with the MorRyde shear springs and the Dexter EZ-Flex ... I personally prefer the EZ-Flex. Part of the reason is since the MorRyde sticks down farther, I felt the need for the X-Factor cross member. I experienced no difference in ride as far as things staying put inside. Here's a link to my old post with photos.
http://www.montanaowners.com/forums/...t=shear+spring