Using Clamps on Leaf Springs (Steer Axle)

I don’t know why but he used the 450+ wheel torque wrench on Rear u bolts. I need to replace a shock mount on rear drive axle Bought parts and u bolts . If I do it myself I want it torqued proper. Thinking of replacing u bolts on other side ( all on rear axle) .Probably not necessary.

 

Suspension u- bolts should always be lubed threads when installed as well. I ussually crisscross with a 3/4 gun until tight or stops turning then check for final torque to be achieved with a wrench. Installed and torqued with dry threads will be under torqued for sure. Retorque is a good idea as already mentioned.

 

I’ve seen them shift a little but a hammer ain’t gonna get it . You need to have it jacked up at frame and properly aligned and torqued. I would take it back to shop. Keep a record maybe just in case they left them loose. I think Now is the time to do alignment also.They are tempered and will snap. Had that happen once.Replaced what I thought was a weak ( and broken )spring . Ended up having Frame Straightened!! It had been twisted for years but went back to original as I’m told also tempered.

 

As far as shifting goes 1/8. “ I’ve seen that on all 3 Trucks I’ve owned with 2 leaf springs there centered by built in pin on springs and blocks as long as one of those alignment pins isn’t rusted away they stay put. If all else is good I myself would just have them retorqued

 

These spring clips aren't designed to keep the leaves from shifting. The ubolts should hold them straight with clamp load. You can fix with weight on them or off will just be easier. Loosen the ubolts and lube the threads and washer to nut. Straighten your leaves with a sledge wont hurt a thing. Once straight retorque tight. If the clips are bent hammer then straight again.

 

One thing to check also is hanger bushings probably the culprit for shifting

 

Are clips really necessary or just mainly for shipping? I’ve always wondered

 

Or for vibrational noise / popping ?.Do I even need them except to hold in place if broken/snapped spring?