solo spring swap

[jblueridge]

I decided it was a good time to swap out my rear springs. Someone before me installed OME stuff which has been great. I just wanted the same thing but new.

Replacement rear spring.

Jacked the truck up, etc. I got both sides up at the same time eventually.

It was too windy to use the torch, so a cutoff wheel on the grinder to get the old u bolts off.

Predictably, I nicked a brake line when the wheel grabbed and shuddered. I'll replace that later.

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[jblueridge]

I was finally able to install the u-bolt flip kits I got so long ago.

Working alone, I had to figure out a way to get the front bolt holes to line up.
A bottle jack provided the force.
A scrap piece of 2" x 1" channel placed above the spring eye was both a spaced and a lever.

I used a cheap ratchet strap to force the bottom of the spring in line with the axle's perch.

My portable band saw and a vise let me cut off excess threads on the u-bolts.
I used a 6" rule to make sure the bolts drew up evenly.

I'll do a final fastener tightening after the whole thing is back on the ground.
I ordered some new shocks from Cruiser Outfitters so maybe I'll paint drum/hub while waiting.

 

[JuanJ]

Hello,

Now that is a DIY installation.

Good work.





Juan

 

[jblueridge]

Thanks.
I ordered new brake shoes too so I’ll have more to do when the rain here stops.

 

[jblueridge]

Installed new brake shoes. Painted the rear hubs.

I used Rustoleum which was stupid. It takes forever to harden. After 3 days it was still soft enough to scrape.

Got time to do the fronts as well.

Scrap

 

[FJBen]

Installed new brake shoes. Painted the rear hubs.
View attachment 2287261

I used Rustoleum which was stupid. It takes forever to harden. After 3 days it was still soft enough to scrape.
View attachment 2287264

Got time to do the fronts as well.
View attachment 2287266

Scrap
View attachment 2287267

Are those springs shot? I'm sure there is someone who would take those. Not just 70 series people either, 40/55 people could have a use as well.

 

[jblueridge]

The crust and rust and very worn plastic bits seemed excessive to me.
Not sure if they are usable or not.