Like most things in the automotive world, removing and installing leaf springs is simple in theory, but can be difficult in practice.
So watch these videos, set aside an afternoon, and keep your band-aids and favorite cuss words nearby. Until you get your new leaf springs on, it will be a bumpy ride.
Removing Leaf Springs
Removing your leaf springs is only an eight-step process which requires basic tools you probably have around the garage.
- Block the tires! We don’t want to roll
- Raise the vehicle
- Place jack stands under the axle, both for safety and to keep the axle in place
- Remove the tire
- Remove the shock
- Remove the U-bolts
- Remove the rear shackle
- Remove the front eye bolt
Now all you have to do is knock her down, and the spring will be in your hand!
Installing Leaf Springs
Installing springs is much like uninstalling them, except you must make sure you’re installing them in the correct way so that the centerbolt sits correctly in the axle.
- Start by putting in the front eye bolt. Do not tighten!
- Then attach the shackle again. Do not tighten!
- Raise the spring to the axle. Make sure the center bolt is in the hole.
- Install new U-bolts. Again, do not tighten.
- Reinstall the tire
- Lower the vehicle on to the tires
- Now torque and tighten all nuts and bolts
- Don’t forget to reinstall the shocks
Don’t Despair! Even Pros Run Into Snags
Of course, when we are dealing with real life, things don’t go as smooth as the theories and guidebooks.
The above video should encourage you through all the cuss words and boo-boos you’ll inevitably go through while working on your leaf spring install.
Sometimes, you have to be smarter than what you’re working on.
(Hint: you may end up needing a hammer, pry bar, pin, and ratchet strap!)
