Replace leaf springs

Answer 1

* UNLOAD THE SPRING by jacking up the vehicle first. Get the body of the vehicle supported on jack stands. * Do the springs one set at a time. * They come off by dropping the shackle bolt, the pivot bolt then unbolting the 4 nuts on the U bolts (around the axle). * Be prepared to stabilize the spring once it is loose because it is awkward and heavy. * Use a floor jack to raise and lower the axle to get room and position the spring. * There will probably be some sort of centering pin between the spring and the axle that may or may not be crusty and rusty and will hinder your progress unless you spray it down with a good penetrating oil. * Shoot, spray down everything that is supposed to move with penetrating oil and give it time to work! When you think it's ready, spray it down again and wait some more. * Replace the bushings on the shackles before you reassemble it--you may need to get them pressed out at a machine shop. * Inspect and replace any bolts that are not perfect and ALWAYS replace your lock washers. The springs are the only thing holding your rear end in. This is no time to be trying to save money by re-using old fasteners. * Get your alignment checked after you have finished. It may have shifted and your car will dog-leg if it isn't all square. * DON'T LET THE BRAKE HOSE take any stress. If it does, it may fail later.