[edited]

I erased my response, because like i said before, I'm done with this.

But if you'd like to learn more on how a leaf spring works, and the way it reacts to different forces and in different hangers, do some web searching for real articles, not just messageboard dribble. The type of connection DOES make a difference in how forces are transmitted. For example, there are two degrees of freedom in a revolver shackle, and only 1 degree of freedom in a regular shackle.

Here, I'll get you started in your educational pursuit:

Leaf Suspension modeling