A baseplate in a disk drive suspension system is configured with an integral anvil having a spring-forming edge that coincides with an optimal bend location on a linear flex spring. The spring attaches to upper surfaces of baseplate and load beam to allow for alignment of a rolling tool above the optimal bend location. During assembly, rolling tool pressure permanently bends the spring around the spring-forming edge to create a desired pre-load characteristic for the suspension system. The integral anvil may include a relief portion for reducing friction on the spring during the bending operation. A method for pre-loading a suspension assembly comprises forming an integral anvil on a baseplate, forming a spring-forming edge on the integral anvil, positioning an optimal bend location on the spring to coincide with the spring-forming edge, and forming a permanent bend in the spring by applying pressure on the spring around the spring-forming edge.