Originally Posted by raymond~

the logic board in my brain is inclined to side with mramay on this, i.e.
thicker spring pad, more gap, higher ride height. where else is that
gap going to be manifest itself?....since the pavement isn't going to
allow the tire to go below the surface.

the spring pad is added above the spring, in effect, lengthening the
spring.

thinner pad = shorter spring/pad overall length

the chassis rides above the spring, ergo, thinner pad = lower ride height

....and vice versa.