Following CoyoteX's good experience with Ranger front springs, I have managed to locate a discount source of NEW Ford Explorer springs.
I stopped by the GOOD auto parts store, where they still have reference books, and got the specs on the springs I can get my hands on.
I am now pulling a rear spring off my car to look at it again.
This time, I have a coil compressor!!!!
From the specs I got, it's looking pretty positive so far!
EDIT
4:57pm.
I got my Metro rear-left spring out. How retarded is this spring compressor! It's TOO LONG to actually fit inside the spring!
I did manage to manhandle the spring out of there without it.
According to the specs on the Ranger/Explorer springs I got from the parts store, and comparing them to the spring I pulled out:
The Ranger springs are - 2.5 inches longer,
have 3 more coils to the spring,
and can carry WAY more weight!
My only concern is that the internal diameter of the springs seem a little off from each other. CoyoteX did confirm that his springs were off the 4x4 version of the Ranger. I also noticed his XFI is a 93 and the Electro-Metro is a 96. Any difference for springs in the two body styles?
Guess I will find out when I visit the new springs tomorrow!