Leaf spring center pin question

[charvey9]

The other day I noticed that the center pins on the 2.5" springs I installed are actually too long, preventing the bottom of the springs from resting on the mount and putting all that pressure on the axle.

I know that different length center pins are available, but I'm assuming it would also be fine just to grind a little off my existing pins. I'd like to avoid completely removing the springs again to make the repair. Would I be able to take off the U-bolts, jack the vehicle to lift the springs off the axle, and remove the center pin without creating a mess (i.e. leafs scattered all over the garage floor)?

Any tips/advice appreciated.

 

[dan73]

I wouldn't pull the bolt out. Just take the u-bolts off one side at a time. Jack it up enough to get your grinder in there. don't forget the jack stands;D If you do pull the bolt out, put a couple of big c-clamps on the springs to keep them together

 

[73stallion]

i agree with dan, more work than necessary to change the pin. you CAN do it without leafs going everywhere if you use a C clamp and clamp the springs together before you remove the pin.

 

[70_Steve]

you CAN do it without leafs going everywhere if you use a C clamp and clamp the springs together before you remove the pin.

Take a look at the (my) Pinion Angle tech article. It shows pictures of doing just that.

 

[charvey9]

Take a look at the (my) Pinion Angle tech article. It shows pictures of doing just that.

Very good article. After reading, I think my best option will be to add some shims rather than grinding the pin.

 

[73stallion]

do you need shims?

 

[charvey9]

do you need shims?

Yep. I checked a few sites, and WH has a 6 degree steel shim kit that comes with new hardware for $29. I'll probably go with those.

 

[u10072]

Just an FYI to anyone that is needing a center-pin. First off dont go through the hassle of a centerpin-- use an socket head allen bolt. Those socket head allen bolts are all actually a hardened bolt--get one long enough so that the threads are hardly in contact with the leafs--meaning you need a nice long bolt and you will cut almost all the threads off--then cap it with a flat washer and a metal locking nut. The beauty of this bolt over the others is you wont ever ruin it and if you need to take it out you have an allen head on one side versus having to use vice grips or cut off the old bolt.

HTH,
Matt

 

[Chief Master Sergeant]

I had to grind mine when I did my lift. What a pain. I didn't want to grind too much, so I would grind, check, grind, check until I got them just the right length. Have fun with that.